Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical plantations across Africa and Latin America
- Hardness
- 1070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable (outstanding resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to natural oils)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture and low natural luster
Color & Appearance
Golden to medium brown, darkening with age and exposure to light, often featuring darker brown streaks
Hardness (Janka)
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (outstanding resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to natural oils)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 35.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and origin
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated several decades based on mature growth ring spacing and rich natural oils
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed or IUCN endangered for plantation-grown timber, but wild old-growth teak is heavily regulated
Common Uses
Boat building, marine decking, outdoor furniture, carving, indoor flooring, and veneer
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in tropical plantations across Africa and Latin America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its silica content can dull cutting edges quickly; glues and finishes well despite natural oils
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating oils are traditionally recommended, as surface finishes like polyurethane can struggle to adhere due to the natural oils
Notable Features
Contains natural teak oils that give it a greasy or waxy feel, highly resistant to moisture, and has a mild, leather-like scent when freshly cut
