Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with occasional waviness; coarse and uneven texture with a distinct oily feel.
Color Description
Heartwood is a golden or medium brown, darkening with age and light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. It exhibits a dull luster.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable; exceptional resistance to rot, termites, and weathering due to high natural oil content.
Common Uses
Ship and boat building (decking), outdoor furniture, exterior construction, veneer, and high-end cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Native to Southern Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown on plantations in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$30.00 - $50.00 per board foot depending on source and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively fresh or recently machined, though oxidation indicates it has been exposed for at least a few months.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List: Endangered (Wild population); highly available through FSC-certified plantations.
Workability
Generally easy to work but high silica content dulls cutting edges rapidly. Glues well only after surface oils are wiped with solvent.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; naturally greasy/oily to the touch; excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil is preferred to maintain natural appearance; clear lacquers require solvent cleaning first to ensure adhesion.
Identification Confidence
High; the golden-brown hue, coarse open-grain texture, and characteristic oily sheen are hallmark identifiers of Tectona grandis.