Wood Guide
Teak
Tectona grandis
Teak is oily, stable, and highly durable, making it the gold standard for marine and outdoor furniture. Golden‑brown color darkens with age.
Overview
Interlocked grain can show ribbon on quartered faces; color varies by origin.
Maker’s note: Wipe with solvent before gluing; use epoxy or polyurethane adhesives.
Appearance
Heartwood
Golden Brown
Golden Brown
Sapwood
Pale Straw
Pale Straw
Grain
Straight
Texture Medium
Luster Medium
Properties
Janka hardness
1070 lbf
1070 lbf
Density
655 kg/m³
655 kg/m³
MOR
97 MPa
97 MPa
Crushing strength
50 MPa
50 MPa
Shrink (radial)
2.6%
2.6%
Shrink (tangential)
5.3%
5.3%
Shrink (volumetric)
7.8%
7.8%
Movement
Low
Low
Steam bending
Poor
Poor
Values are typical; verify with your supplier.
Workability & Safety
Machining
Oily and silica‑bearing; use sharp carbide and slow feed to avoid burning.
Hand tools
Edges dull quicker; skew cuts help on interlocked grain.
Turning
Turns smoothly but can be stringy; seal promptly to avoid oil bleed.
Sanding schedule 120 → 150 → 180 → 220
Gluing Fair
Finishing notes Exterior oils or two‑part marine varnishes; wipe with solvent before finish to aid adhesion.
Silica present
Blunting effect High
Food contact OK
Toxicity flags
Toxicity notes Oily dust can irritate skin; gloves and dust extraction recommended.
Sourcing & Sustainability
Favor plantation or FSC teak; verify legal origin and avoid old‑growth.
FSC available
Pricing —
Notes: Burmese (old‑growth) commands highest prices; plantation stock is more affordable. • Updated:
Uses & Positioning
Avoid for Food prep surfaces
Pick teak for top‑tier outdoor durability; surface prep is key for glue and finishes.
Gallery
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