Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, uneven texture and a dull natural luster. Some boards show mild cathedral patterns while others are rift-sawn for stability.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a golden or medium brown. With exposure to UV light and weathering as seen in the sample, it shifts toward a light tan or silvery-grey patina unless oiled regularly. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white and clearly demarcated.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptionally resistant to rot, fungi, and insect attacks (such as termites) due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (especially decks), high-end cabinetry, exterior joinery, and flooring.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations across Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Current market value for high-quality Burmese Teak is approximately $30.00 to $45.00 per board foot; plantation-grown teak is typically $15.00 to $25.00 per board foot.
Wood Age Estimate
The furniture piece appears to be 2 to 5 years old based on the beginning of silvering/graying in open-grain areas and minor surface checking from sun exposure.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Status: Endangered (wild populations). However, it is widely available through FSC-certified plantations. Myanmar teak is subject to various international trade sanctions.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but the high silica content (up to 1.4%) has a significant dulling effect on cutting edges. Glues well only on freshly sanded or solvent-cleaned surfaces due to natural oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. It has an oily feel and high silica content. Does not cause rust or corrosion when in contact with metal fasteners.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil are recommended to maintain color. If left outdoors, it can be left unfinished to age to a silver-grey. Film-forming finishes like polyurethane are generally discouraged due to the wood's natural oils causing adhesion failure.
Identification Confidence
High. The golden-brown hue, characteristic weathering pattern (silvery surface highlights), oily texture, and application in slatted outdoor furniture are hallmarked indicators of Tectona grandis.