Contractor's Guide to Specifying Hardwoods
Authoritative technical data, grading tolerances, and installation requirements to help architects, builders, and specifiers select the right tropical hardwood for the right environment.
Why Specification Matters
Unlike composite materials that are manufactured to identical tolerances, tropical hardwoods are natural products shaped by the environments in which they grow. Understanding the exact mechanical properties, dimensional stability, and regional limitations of each species ensures that your project succeeds both structurally and aesthetically.
Ipe
Janka: 3,680 lbfThe absolute standard in hardwood decking. Extreme density, Class A fire-rated, and unmatched longevity for the most demanding commercial and residential projects.
Cumaru
Janka: 3,330 lbfA premium, cost-effective alternative to Ipe. Excellent durability and hardness with a distinct, interlocking grain structure. Often used in heavy-traffic applications.
Tigerwood
Janka: 2,160 lbfKnown for dramatic, high-contrast striping and striking architectural appeal. Exceptional performance in moderate climates and highly valued for custom siding and decking.
Garapa
Janka: 1,650 lbfThe 'Golden Hardwood'. An excellent budget-friendly option that offers fine grain and warm tones, perfect for moderate climates and modern architectural styles.
Massaranduba
Janka: 3,190 lbfBrazilian Redwood. Deep, rich red tones with incredible density suited for extreme weather. Requires proper acclimation but offers top-tier longevity.
Red Balau
Janka: 2,100 lbfA Mahogany-like appearance from Southeast Asia. Offers great value, easier workability, and rich color consistency with a solid track record in decking.
Working With Hardwoods: Builder Tips
Practical, on-the-job guidance for cutting, drilling, and fastening each specific hardwood species.
Working with Ipe
Tips for tooling, cutting, drilling, and fastening.
Read Builder TipsWorking with Cumaru
Tips for tooling, cutting, drilling, and fastening.
Read Builder TipsWorking with Tigerwood
Tips for tooling, cutting, drilling, and fastening.
Read Builder TipsWorking with Garapa
Tips for tooling, cutting, drilling, and fastening.
Read Builder TipsWorking with Massaranduba
Tips for tooling, cutting, drilling, and fastening.
Read Builder TipsWorking with Red Balau
Tips for tooling, cutting, drilling, and fastening.
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