Back to Species

WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger

Teak

Tectona grandis

Also known as: Burmese Teak, Indian Teak

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Teak wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
1,070 lbf (4,760 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
655 kg/m³ (41 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.66
Type
Hardwood
Grain
Straight grain, sometimes wavy or interlocked
Texture
Coarse and uneven
Durability
Exceptionally durable, outstanding resistance to decay, insects, and marine borers
Region
Asia
Sustainability
Caution — Concerns about wild harvest, plantation teak widely available

Overview

Teak is arguably the world's premier outdoor wood, renowned for its exceptional natural durability and resistance to weathering, decay, and marine organisms. Native to South and Southeast Asia, its high natural oil content and dimensional stability have made it the gold standard for shipbuilding and outdoor furniture for centuries, though sustainability concerns have led to widespread plantation cultivation.

The heartwood is golden to medium brown when fresh, weathering to silver-gray if left untreated outdoors, with a coarse, uneven texture and natural oily feel. Density averages 655 kg/m³ when dried with a Janka hardness of 1,070 lbf. High silica and natural oil content provide exceptional weather resistance and dimensional stability.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

High - significant silica content dulls cutting edges quickly

Gluing

Challenging - natural oils can interfere, surfaces should be wiped with solvent first

Finishing

Difficult - oily nature repels many finishes, often left natural to weather

Steam Bending

Moderate steam bending characteristics

Scent

Distinctive aromatic, slightly spicy odor, pleasant to most

Assessment

Strengths

  • Outstanding weather resistance
  • Exceptional durability
  • High natural oil content
  • Dimensionally stable
  • Resists rot and insects

Weaknesses

  • High silica content dulls tools
  • Oily nature can complicate gluing and finishing
  • Can be expensive
  • Wild sources threatened

Common Uses

Boat building · Marine applications · Outdoor furniture · Decking · Veneer · Flooring · Heavy construction