Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight, can sometimes be wavy or interlocked. The sample shows a coarse, open-pored texture with a visible straight grain on the face surfaces.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically golden or medium brown, darkening with age. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. This sample shows typical oxidative darkening to a rich reddish-brown, often found in weathered outdoor furniture.
Hardness Rating
1,000–1,150 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Highly resistant to rot, termites, and fungal decay due to high natural oil and rubber content. Excellent for exterior weathering.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (especially decks), flooring, veneer, and paneling.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand); widely grown in plantations worldwide.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
High; typically ranges from $20.00 to $45.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a piece of furniture approximately 5 to 15 years old, evidenced by the mild surface weathering and darkening of the finish.
Sustainability Status
Vulnerable in wild populations; much commercial teak is now FSC-certified and grown on plantations. Burmese Teak is restricted in many jurisdictions.
Workability
Generally easy to work but high silica content (up to 1.4%) can severely dull cutting edges. Glues well with proper surface preparation to remove surface oils.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut; oily feel to the touch; high natural rubber content provides excellent dimensional stability.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or tung oil are best for maintaining color. It can be left unfinished to weather to a silver-grey patina. Marine-grade spar varnish for high-moisture environments.
Identification Confidence
High. The visible open grain structure, characteristic reddish-brown oxidation, and its use in an outdoor chair context are classic indicators of Tectona grandis.