Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical plantation regions globally
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks due to natural oils)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture and medium to low natural luster
Color & Appearance
Rich golden-brown to medium brown, darkening with age and exposure to light, often featuring darker contrasting streaks
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks due to natural oils)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 30.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent piece, finished with a high-gloss coating preserved in pristine condition
- Sustainability Status
- Generally sustainable when sourced from certified plantations (FSC), though wild-harvested Asian teak faces regulatory restrictions
Common Uses
Marine applications, boat building, fine furniture, carving, turning, and specialty decorative items
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical plantation regions globally
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high silica content can dull cutting edges quickly; natural oils can sometimes interfere with gluing
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil, marine varnish, or polyurethane; surface must be wiped down with a solvent prior to finishing to remove natural surface oils for proper adhesion
Notable Features
Contains natural teak oils that give it a greasy or waxy feel, exceptional dimensional stability, and high resistance to moisture and weathering
