Teak
Tectona grandis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with occasional wavy or interlocked patterns; medium to coarse texture with a naturally oily surface. The sample shows a flat-sawn cathedral figure and some fine, dark streaks.
Color Description
Golden to medium brown heartwood that darkens with age. Sapwood is typically a pale yellowish-white. It exhibits a low to moderate natural luster due to high oil content.
Hardness Rating
1,070 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability Rating
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and termite attack due to high natural oil and silica content.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, boat building (decking and trim), exterior construction, flooring, veneer, and high-end cabinetry.
Geographic Origin
Native to South and Southeast Asia (India, Myanmar, Thailand); extensively grown on plantations throughout tropical regions in Africa and Latin America.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 to $45.00 per board foot, depending on the grade and source (Burmese vs. Plantation).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a piece of vintage furniture or architectural element, likely 20-40 years old based on the oxidation, minor surface scuffs, and tool marks.
Sustainability Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to overexploitation; plantation-grown wood is widely available and FSC certified, though Myanmar teak is subject to international trade sanctions.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but the high silica content can dull cutting edges rapidly. It glues and finishes well, though natural oils can occasionally interfere with some adhesives.
Notable Features
Distinctive leather-like scent when freshly cut. It contains a high amount of natural oils and silica, providing superior weather resistance. Dust can be a respiratory irritant for some.
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or Danish oil is recommended to maintain its natural appearance. For high-wear areas, a marine-grade varnish or polyurethane can be used, though surface oils should be wiped with a solvent immediately before application.
Identification Confidence
High. The golden-brown hue, characteristic oily surface texture, and the specific tight grain pattern with darker streaks are hallmarks of Tectona grandis.