Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy, sometimes interlocked; exhibits prominent crown or cathedral patterns on flat-sawn surfaces as seen in the veneer. Coarse, uneven texture with a naturally oily feel.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It features a dull to moderate luster and a slightly greasy surface due to natural oils.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and termites due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Mid-century modern furniture, boat building (decks), outdoor furniture, high-end cabinetry, and decorative veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown in plantations across Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot for solid lumber; high-quality veneers vary by sheet size.
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the mid-century modern aesthetic of the furniture piece and the oxidation of the finish, the sample is likely 50-70 years old (circa 1950s-1960s).
Sustainability Status
Natural-growth Teak is increasingly rare; Myanmar Teak is subject to trade restrictions. Plantation-grown Teak is widely available and often FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work but contains silica which dulls cutting edges rapidly. Glues well if surface oils are wiped with solvent beforehand. Excellent for sanding and turning.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. High silica content and natural oils make it uniquely weather-resistant and slightly abrasive to tools.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil are preferred to maintain the natural look; lacquer or polyurethane can be used if the wood is properly degreased with acetone prior to application.
Identification Confidence
High; the color, cathedral grain figure characteristic of 20th-century furniture veneers, and the specific context of the furniture design strongly indicate Teak.