Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with a coarse, uneven texture; visible longitudinal parenchyma and large open pores typical of flat-sawn ring-porous structure.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. Often features dark streaks and a duller luster due to high oil content.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; highly resistant to rot, termites, and fungal decay due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Ship and boatbuilding (decking), outdoor furniture, high-end exterior joinery, flooring, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); extensively grown in plantations across tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $40.00 per board foot depending on origin (FEQ Burmese vs. Furniture Grade Plantation).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly processed or rough-sawn lumber, likely less than 1 year post-milling based on the lack of silver-grey weathering and sharp mechanical edge marks.
Sustainability Status
Natural-grown Teak from Myanmar is restricted/subject to sanctions; Plantation-grown Teak is widely available and FSC certified.
Workability
Generally easy to work but high silica content significantly dulls cutting edges. Glues better after wiping with solvent to remove surface oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; greasy/oily feel; contains high silica which provides excellent grip for boat decks.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil to maintain natural appearance; if film-forming finishes like lacquer are used, a sealer is required to block natural oils.
Identification Confidence
High; the specific combination of golden-brown hue, large open pores, visible oily surface texture, and coarse grain is characteristic of Tectona grandis.