Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, and Thailand; widely planted across tropical regions
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and termite attacks
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy or interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture
Color & Appearance
Golden-yellow to medium brown heartwood that darkens with age and exposure to light; distinct paler yellowish sapwood
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, and termite attacks
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 15 to 30 USD per board foot for genuine plantation-grown lumber
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 40 years based on the polished finish and rich patina
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List for plantation-grown timber, but wild old-growth teak faces harvesting pressures
Common Uses
Fine indoor and outdoor furniture, boat and shipbuilding, decking, exterior construction, and carving
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, and Thailand; widely planted across tropical regions
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though high silica content can rapidly dull cutting edges; glues and finishes well despite natural oils
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating finishes are ideal; surface preparation requires wiping down natural oils with a solvent before gluing or applying film finishes
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and rubber that give it a distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut and provide superior weather resistance
