Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Typically straight grain, occasionally wavy or interlocked with a somewhat coarse and uneven texture. Possible presence of oily streaks based on the visual evidence.
Color Description
Golden or medium brown heartwood that darkens with age. Sapwood is a pale yellowish brown. Low to moderate natural luster with a distinctive oily appearance.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptionally resistant to rot, fungi, and termites due to high natural oil and silica content. Highly weather-resistant.
Common Uses
Ship and boatbuilding (decking), outdoor furniture, exterior construction, flooring, veneer, and high-end cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown in plantations across tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 to $50.00 per board foot for high-quality genuine Burmese Teak; plantation-grown Teak is lower.
Wood Age Estimate
Appearance suggests a seasoned, processed board with moderate oxidation, likely 5-20 years since harvest.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (wild populations); CITES: Not listed. FSC certification is common and recommended for plantation-grown Teak.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though high silica content can have a significant dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues and finishes well despite natural oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High oil content provides a greasy feel. Contains silica which can dull tools. Renowned for its dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil is preferred to highlight natural beauty. If using film finishes like polyurethane, a solvent wipe with acetone is necessary to remove surface oils.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The golden-brown color, oily surface texture, and characteristic long grain lines are highly indicative of Tectona grandis, though some other tropical species like Iroko can appear similar.