Teak (or similar tropical hardwood such as Iroko or Merbau)
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia); widely grown on sustainable plantations in tropical regions globally
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, moisture, fungal attack, and marine borers due to high natural oil content
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked coarse grain with prominent coarse pore vessels running vertically across the face grain
Color & Appearance
Golden-brown to medium warm brown heartwood with darker grain streaks, moderate natural luster, and characteristic oily appearance that darkens to a richer golden brown with age
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; exceptionally resistant to rot, decay, moisture, fungal attack, and marine borers due to high natural oil content
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 - $30.00 per board foot for genuine old-growth or high-grade plantation Teak
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber sample (roughly 1 to 10 years old based on surface condition, cut style, and light oxidation)
- Sustainability Status
- Listed on the IUCN Red List as Endangered in wild natural stands due to deforestation; widely available from certified FSC-managed sustainable plantations. Myanmar Teak subject to trade sanctions/restrictions.
Common Uses
Boat building, marine decking, outdoor furniture, high-end interior cabinetry, flooring, architectural millwork, and veneer
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia); widely grown on sustainable plantations in tropical regions globally
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and power tools, but high silica content dulls cutting edges rapidly. High oil content requires solvent cleaning (e.g., acetone) before gluing for maximum bond strength.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating marine spar varnish work best. Solvent wipe-down with acetone is recommended prior to applying finishes or adhesives to remove surface oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like odor when freshly worked; high natural rubber and teak oil content that provides inherent water resistance; high silica content causes blade dulling
