Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with an uneven, coarse texture and a characteristic dull surface. Some sections show tight, wavy streaks typical of old-growth or plantation-grown heartwood.
Color Description
Medium golden-brown heartwood with darker streaks. The sapwood is typically a pale yellowish-white, though mostly heartwood is shown here. It develops a silvery-gray patina if left unfinished outdoors, but darkens to a deep brown when oiled.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termites due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (decks and trim), high-end cabinetry, flooring, and exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos); widely grown in plantations worldwide.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $25.00 - $45.00 per board foot depending on source (FEQ - First European Quality).
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years based on visible surface oxidation, rough-hewn cross-section texture, and moderate patina depth.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to native habitat loss; however, it is widely available from FSC-certified sustainable plantations.
Workability
Generally easy to work but contains high silica, which dulls tool edges very quickly. Glues well only after surface oils are wiped with a solvent.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like odor when freshly cut; high natural oil and rubber content; greasy or oily feel to the touch.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil to maintain the golden hue; marine-grade varnish for high-exposure environments; or left unfinished to age naturally.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identified by the characteristic golden-brown oily sheen, coarse grain structure, and typical rough-sawn appearance of imported tropical timber.