Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical plantations
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable with excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insects
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Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy or interlocked grain with a coarse, uneven texture
Color & Appearance
Golden to medium brown, darkening with age; features dark streaks and a leather-like scent when freshly cut
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable with excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insects
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 to $30.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively modern, around 5 to 20 years old based on plantation harvesting standards
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed or IUCN threatened, but wild harvest is restricted; largely sustainable via plantation-grown sources
Common Uses
Ship and boat building, exterior furniture, decking, flooring, and carving
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical plantations
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though high silica content can dull cutting edges quickly
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating finishes; film-forming finishes can fail due to the natural oils present in the wood
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and rubber that make it extremely weather-resistant and slippery to the touch
