Teak — Tectona grandis

Teak

Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Origin
Native to southern Asia (India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar). Widely grown on plantations in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Hardness
Medium (1000-1155 lbf)
Durability
Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and termites, making it highly suitable for outdoor use.

Got a wood sample like this?

Identify any wood from a photo, free.

Identify wood

Grain Pattern

Straight to slightly wavy or interlocked grain. The sample shows a mostly straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, which often darkens with age. The image shows a weathered, somewhat dull brown with lighter areas, indicative of aging or exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

Medium (1000-1155 lbf)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable. Excellent resistance to rot and termites, making it highly suitable for outdoor use.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

High; $25 - $40+ per board foot depending on origin (plantation vs. old-growth) and quality.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The surface appears weathered and aged, with dirt accumulation and slight checking, suggesting it is older, perhaps reclaimed or having been outdoors for some time.

Common Uses

Boat building, outdoor furniture, veneer, carving, and high-end joinery.

Geographic Origin

Native to southern Asia (India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar). Widely grown on plantations in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Workability

Generally easy to work, but high silica content can severely blunt cutting edges. Glues and finishes well, though surface oils may require wiping with a solvent before gluing.

Finish Recommendations

Often left unfinished for outdoor use, weathering to a silvery gray. For indoor use, penetrating oils or specialized teak oils work well. Varnishes can be used if the surface is properly prepped with a solvent to remove excess natural oils.

Notable Features

Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly milled. High natural oil and rubber content contributes to its renowned durability and water resistance.

Learn more about Teak in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 7, 2026