Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight grain with occasional wavy or interlocked patterns. Texture is coarse and uneven with a distinct oily feeling. Flat-sawn boards show subtle cathedraling and moderate pore structure.
Color Description
Aged golden brown to greyish-brown patina. Freshly cut heartwood is golden; however, this sample shows significant oxidation and weathering to a muted silver-brown. Luster is low due to natural oils and surface oxidation.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, fungi, and termites due to high natural oil content and silica.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat decking, marine applications, exterior joinery, and high-end cabinetry.
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 high-quality FEQ (First European Quality) material.
Wood Age Estimate
30-50 years. The deep oxidation, surface staining, and localized checking suggest a reclaimed or long-service outdoor piece.
Sustainability Status
Listed on the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable. Burmese Teak is restricted; FSC-certified plantation teak is the more sustainable and common alternative.
Workability
Generally good, but the high silica content causes rapid dulling of tool edges. Glues reasonably well if surfaces are wiped with solvent to remove surface oils before bonding.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like odor when freshly worked. High natural oil content makes it highly water-resistant. Known for having a 'sandpaper' effect on blades.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil to maintain the natural look. If used indoors, lacquer or polyurethane can be used, but require surface degreasing with acetone first.
Identification Confidence
Medium. The grain layout, weather-induced grayscale patina, oily appearance, and specific checking patterns are highly characteristic of aged Tectona grandis.