Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain, occasionally wavy or interlocked. Texture is coarse and uneven with a distinct oily/greasy feel. Visible longitudinal vessel lines common in flat-sawn portions.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a golden or medium brown, darkening with age and light exposure. Sapwood is a pale yellowish-white. Often features dark streaks or variegated patterns when freshly cut.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termites due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Marine applications (boat decks/trim), outdoor furniture, high-end indoor furniture, flooring, veneer, and exterior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos); widely grown on plantations in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Market price varies significantly but typically ranges from $30.00 to $50.00 per board foot for high-quality Burmese Teak; plantation Teak is lower.
Wood Age Estimate
Secondary growth or plantation grown, estimated at 20-40 years old based on the color uniformity and grain density exhibited in the planking.
Sustainability Status
IUCN Red List categorizes Teak as Endangered in some natural ranges. CITES Appendix II includes certain populations. FSC certified plantation teak is widely available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but high silica content will significantly dull cutting edges. Glues well despite natural oils if surfaces are freshly prepared with solvent.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly worked. High oil and silica content provides natural weatherproofing. Durable even when left unfinished.
Finish Recommendations
Teak Oil or Tung oil to enhance natural color and grain. For outdoor use, it can be left unfinished to weather to a silver-grey or maintained with specialized Teak sealers.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the golden-brown hue, large open pores (vessel lines), and the specific surface luster/sheen is characteristic of Tectona grandis.