Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly interlocked with a coarse, uneven texture. Occasional wavy or mottled figure can be present; the sample shows a consistent straight vertical grain typical of quarter-sawn or rift-sawn tropical hardwood.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, darkening with age to a rich, dark brown. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. It exhibits a dull luster and can feel oily or greasy to the touch due to natural resins.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and termites due to high natural oil content. Widely considered the gold standard for outdoor weather resistance.
Common Uses
Boat building (decks and trim), high-end outdoor furniture, flooring, veneer, cabinetry, and exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations across Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot for high-quality FEQ (First Europe Quality) Burmese Teak; plantation teak is slightly less.
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate from photo; however, the lack of significant silver-gray oxidation suggests the piece is either relatively new/protected or has been recently surfaced.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to population reduction in native stands. CITES Appendix II applies to some regional logs. FSC certification is available for plantation-grown stock.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though high silica content has a significant dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues and finishes well, though surface oils may require wiping with a solvent (like acetone) before bonding.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. Contains high levels of silica and natural oils, providing excellent dimensional stability and water resistance.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil are preferred to enhance natural beauty; polyurethane or lacquer can be used if all surface oils are removed prior to application.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The golden-brown hue, coarse texture, and characteristic oily appearance are highly diagnostic of Tectona grandis, though similar-looking 'teak alternatives' like Iroko or Cumaru could appear similar in low-resolution photos.