Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- 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 resistance to decay, rot, fungi, and insect attack due to natural oils.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with medium to coarse texture, showing faint growth rings and characteristic open vessel pores.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from golden brown to dark yellowish-brown, darkening to a deep brown upon exposure. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white, visible on the far-left edge.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to decay, rot, fungi, and insect attack due to natural oils.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 - $30.00 per board foot depending on grade, origin (FEQ vs. plantation), and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or rough-sawn lumber, likely 1 to 5 years old based on fresh rough-sawn blade marks and raw surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices; IUCN lists wild Tectona grandis as Endangered, but widely available from FSC-certified sustainable plantations.
Common Uses
Boat building, marine decking, outdoor furniture, high-end cabinetry, interior joinery, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia); widely cultivated in tropical plantations worldwide.
Workability
Generally good to work with, though high silica content dulls cutting edges rapidly. Glues well after wiping surface oils with solvent.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or marine-grade spar varnish for exterior exposure. Interior pieces can be finished with lacquer, polyurethanes, or simple wax after solvent-wiping oily surfaces.
Notable Features
Distinctive oily or greasy feel, leather-like scent when freshly worked, outstanding dimensional stability, and high natural water resistance.
