“Exotic hardwood” is a term with a somewhat elastic definition. The vague but commonly accepted definition, “rare woods from afar” falls short of describing the unique, high-end look and heightened density that separates the exotic woods from their standard domestic counterparts. Some specify that in order for a wood to be considered “exotic,” it cannot be indigenous to North America and often hales from a tropical locale.
Although there is no master list of exotic species, several popular choices often fall under the heading of “exotic hardwoods.” Here is a sampling of exotic hardwoods regularly distributed by exotic hardwood dealer J. Gibson McIlvain:
1. Teak
Often used in for boat decks, this wood outlasts pretty much any other species when constantly bombarded by the elements. Its color is a golden brown, and its grain is straight. Burmese Teak is one of the most decay-resistant woods around, in part due to its high silica content, which also makes it difficult to machine.
2. Ipe
This premier dark brown decking wood comes from South America and is so dense that it resists not only rotting but even fire. With a 40-year lifespan, an outdoor deck made from Ipe will probably accompany your home longer than you will inhabit it.
3. Genuine Mahogany
This wood comes from the tropics of Central and South America, making it an excellent exterior wood that resists rotting. Because of its medium hardness, genuine mahogany combines strength with workability. Furniture makers love its rich reddish brown color and its responsiveness to carving, making it a traditional choice for furnishings of all kinds.
4. Sapele
Similar in color to mahogany’s rich reddish brown, this wood boasts remarkable density and tight graining, which allows it to polish quite well. Like mahogany, Sapele comes from Africa.
5. Utile/Sipo
This African species goes by the name Utile or the name Sipo. Considered a type of Mahogany, this wood is easy to work and to finish and, like genuine mahogany, has a deep red-brown hue.
6. African Mahogany
This category of mahogany species is similar to genuine mahogany. African mahogany’s durability surpasses that of Genuine Mahogany, though, thanks to its interlocking grain. That same ribbon-patterned graining does make machining difficult, though.
7. Cumaru
Also known as “Brazilian Teak,” this South American wood is being used as an alternative to Ipe within the decking industry. Cumaru’s coloring has more of a yellow cast to it, and its durability is not quite on par with that of Ipe. Without proper drying and the right thickness, stability issues can arise.
8. Massaranduba
Another wood indigenous to South America, this wood is often used for decking, as well. Sometimes referred to as Brazilian Redwood, its coloring is more reddish than is Ipe, but its decay and fire resistance are similar to Ipe. Like with Cumaru, stability issues with massaranduba can come up without proper drying.
While exotic hardwood dealers may not be able to agree on a tight definition of exotic hardwoods, one thing is certain: J. Gibson McIlvain carries several and can help you review the pros and cons of each possible wood for your next project.
Want to learn more about lumber?
- Tropical decking choices
- Why do Teak boards change color?
- Understanding the hardwood lumber quality grading scale
No related posts.
