Teak
Tectona grandis · Exotic/Tropical
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical
- Origin
- South and Southeast Asia (primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, and Thailand), widely planted in tropical tree plantations globally
- Hardness
- 1070 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Very Durable (exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and insects)
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture
Color & Appearance
Golden-brown to medium brown, darkening with age and exposure to light; contains natural oils that give it a leather-like scent when freshly cut
Hardness (Janka)
1070 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable (exceptional resistance to decay, rot, and insects)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- High, typically ranging from $15 to $35+ per board foot depending on grade and origin
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old based on surface patina and oxidation
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed or IUCN threatened for plantation-grown timber, but wild-harvested old-growth Teak faces strict export controls and conservation concerns
Common Uses
Boat building, yacht decking, outdoor furniture, indoor flooring, and fine cabinetry
Geographic Origin
South and Southeast Asia (primarily Myanmar, India, Laos, and Thailand), widely planted in tropical tree plantations globally
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the high silica content can rapidly dull cutting edges; glues and finishes well despite natural oils
Finish Recommendations
Teak oil or penetrating oils work best; film-building finishes like polyurethane can struggle to adhere properly due to the wood's high natural oil content unless thoroughly degreased
Notable Features
Contains natural oils and rubber that make it extremely weather-resistant and dimensionally stable; distinct leathery odor when freshly worked
