Teak
Tectona grandis · Hardwood / Exotic
- Type
- Hardwood / Exotic
- Origin
- Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia); widely cultivated in tropical plantations worldwide.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable. Exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, moisture, and insect attack due to high natural oil and resin content.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent cathedral arching, straight to slightly wavy grain, medium-to-coarse open-pored texture, and dark contrast growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Golden to medium honey brown heartwood with distinct dark brown to charcoal streaks along the earlywood/latewood boundaries. Moderate silky luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, moisture, and insect attack due to high natural oil and resin content.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $25.00 - $40.00 per board foot for high-grade lumbers.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern processing (estimated 10–30 years old), showing light amber patina from drying and finishing oils.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Red List categorizes wild Teak as Endangered; widely available from FSC-certified sustainable plantations.
Common Uses
Gunstocks/furniture (as shown in image), marine decking, fine furniture, outdoor furniture, cabinetry, boat building, architectural woodwork.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia); widely cultivated in tropical plantations worldwide.
Workability
Works relatively easily with sharp tools, though high silica content dulls cutting edges quickly. Glues moderately well if surface oils are wiped with solvent prior to bonding.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil, linseed oil, or clear wiping varnish/polyurethane. Solvent wipe down with acetone required prior to finishing to clear surface oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive oily/waxy feel, faint leather-like scent when freshly worked, exceptionally high dimensional stability and natural water resistance.
