Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia, though widely planted in tropical tree plantations across Africa and Latin America.
- Hardness
- 1,070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, termites, and other insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture and prominent, long vertical vessel lines.
Color & Appearance
Golden-yellow to medium brown heartwood that tends to darken significantly with age and exposure to light; sapwood is a pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
1,070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional resistance to rot, decay, termites, and other insects.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15 to $35 per board foot depending on grade, origin, and whether it is plantation or old-growth.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 20 to 50 years old based on typical surface oxidation and finish characteristics.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, but natural old-growth forests are protected. Plantation-grown teak is widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Boat building, marine applications, outdoor furniture, veneer, carving, and fine interior joinery.
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia, though widely planted in tropical tree plantations across Africa and Latin America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the silica content in the wood can dull cutting edges rapidly.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating oils are traditionally used due to natural oils interfering with standard film finishes; proper degreasing with solvent is needed before gluing or finishing.
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and silica which give it a greasy or waxy feel, excellent dimensional stability, and superior weather resistance.
