Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows typically narrow, uniform growth rings and a relatively plain, consistent fiber structure characteristic of rift or quarter-sawn tropical timber.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden brown with dark streaks; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. The visible piece shows a medium, warm honey-brown tone with high luster and a slightly oily surface appearance. It will typically darken and silver over time if exposed to UV.
Hardness Rating
1070 lbf (Medium - Janka Scale)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, termites, and fungal decay due to high natural oil and rubber content. Highly weather-resistant.
Common Uses
Boat building (decks and trim), exterior furniture, high-end flooring, cabinetry, carving, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations across tropical regions of Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 to $45.00 per board foot for high-quality, old-growth or plantation heartwood.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely kiln-dried and recently processed. The clean edges and lack of significant oxidation suggest a sample less than 5 years old.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to over-exploitation of old-growth forests. FSC-certified plantation teak is widely available and more sustainable.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though the high silica content can dull cutting edges quickly. Glues well following surface preparation to remove surface oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High natural oil and rubber content makes it waterproof. Can cause skin or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil are best to enhance natural luster. Often left unfinished for outdoor use. Avoid standard polyurethane without a sealer as natural oils can prevent curing.
Identification Confidence
High. The golden-brown hue, characteristic 'waxy' or oily surface texture, and the specific open-pored grain structure are diagnostic for Tectona grandis.