Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy; interlocked grain is sometimes present. Texture is coarse and uneven with a naturally oily feel.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It possesses a dull luster and can exhibit streaks of darker brown or black.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Renowned for its superb resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termites due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Ship and boatbuilding (decking), exterior construction, high-end outdoor furniture, veneer, turnery, and carving.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations throughout tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot for high-quality FEQ (First European Quality) lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible surface patina and oxidation suggest a seasoned sample, likely 5-10 years post-harvest or currently used in a weathered outdoor application.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed; classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to a population decline of over 30% over the last three generations. FSC-certified plantation teak is available.
Workability
Generally easy to work, though high silica content can rapidly dull cutting edges. Glues well despite natural oils if surfaces are pre-cleaned with a solvent.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. Extremely high oil and silica content makes it the premier choice for marine environments.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil is the standard to maintain color; can be left unfinished to weather to a silver-gray. Film-forming finishes like polyurethane may suffer from adhesion issues due to natural oils.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The visible coarse texture, golden-brown hue, and characteristic white mineral streaks (silica) are highly indicative of Tectona grandis.