Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy with a coarse, uneven texture and a naturally oily feel; exhibits cathedral grain patterns in flat-sawn sections as seen in the sample.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. This sample shows a warm, honey-colored patina with a muted luster.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, fungi, and termites due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, boat building (especially decking), flooring, cabinetry, and exterior construction.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot for high-quality Burmese Teak; plantation teak is lower.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern manufacture (5-20 years) based on the precision of the joints and the consistent, modern matte finish quality.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (due to wild population decline); abundant plantation-grown teak is available with FSC certification.
Workability
Generally good, though high silica content can dull blades quickly. Glues well if surface oils are cleaned with a solvent first.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High oil content provides natural water resistance and a unique tactile feel.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil to maintain natural look. If film-forming finishes like polyurethane are used, the wood must be degreased with acetone first.
Identification Confidence
High; the golden-brown color, oily appearance, and specific coarse pore structure visible in the grain are diagnostic characteristics of Tectona grandis.