Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in plantation forests throughout the tropics.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, termites, and weathering due to natural oils.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture and noticeable natural luster.
Color & Appearance
Golden to medium brown, darkening with age and exposure to sunlight, featuring distinct color variations across the glued staves.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, termites, and weathering due to natural oils.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15.00 to 30.00 USD per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently manufactured from kiln-dried plantation lumber, estimated between 1 to 5 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed or IUCN threatened for plantation-grown timber; widely available as sustainably managed plantation teak (FSC certified sources exist).
Common Uses
Boat building, exterior furniture, decking, flooring, indoor cabinetry, and turned items.
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, widely cultivated in plantation forests throughout the tropics.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its high natural oil and silica content can blunt cutting edges quickly. Glues and finishes well despite the oils.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil, penetrating oils, or marine finishes are ideal. Surface must be wiped down with a solvent (like acetone) prior to gluing or finishing to remove surface oils.
Notable Features
Contains natural teak oils and rubber that give it a unique oily feel, pleasant leather-like scent when freshly cut, and superior dimensional stability.
