Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia (primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, Thailand); widely planted across tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
- Hardness
- 1070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to natural oils.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture.
Color & Appearance
Rich golden-brown to dark brown heartwood, sometimes with dark streaks. It darkens significantly with age upon exposure to sunlight.
Hardness (Janka)
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to natural oils.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 35.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and origin.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 10 to 30 years based on typical architectural installation and minimal oxidation patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, but native forests are heavily regulated. Readily available from sustainable plantations (FSC certified).
Common Uses
Marine applications, outdoor furniture, boat building, decking, and high-end indoor trim or flooring.
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia (primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, Thailand); widely planted across tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its high silica and oil content can dull cutting edges quickly. Glues and finishes well despite natural oils.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating finishes are traditional. Special preparation such as wiping down with a solvent (like acetone) is recommended to remove surface oils before gluing or finishing with film finishes.
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and resins that make it exceptionally weather-resistant and give it a somewhat greasy or waxy feel to the touch.
Notes
Spa trim 2
