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Tigerwood Hardwood
Distinctive Beauty
Named for its dramatic striped grain pattern, Tigerwood (Goncalo Alves) is one of the most visually striking hardwoods available. With excellent durability and unique character, it's perfect for those who want their deck to make a statement.
What Is Tigerwood?
Tigerwood, scientifically known as Goncalo Alves, is named for its dramatic striped grain pattern featuring rich orange-brown and dark brown streaks. It's one of the most visually striking hardwood decking options available.
With a Janka hardness rating of 2,160 lbf, Tigerwood is significantly harder than most domestic woods and offers excellent resistance to dents and wear. The Wood Database classifies it among the most durable tropical species. While softer than the top-rated decking hardwood, it's still highly resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage, making it a durable choice for outdoor applications. See our hardwood species comparison for the full breakdown, or check the Janka hardness rating chart.
The unique tiger-stripe pattern ensures no two boards look alike, giving your deck distinctive character. Tigerwood's deep, warm tones actually deepen with age, creating a rich patina over time.
Tigerwood Decking & Lumber
Tigerwood offers premium exotic hardwood aesthetics at a mid-range price point â with a 40+ year lifespan and Class A fire rating. Available in multiple decking sizes and siding profiles.
For live pricing, sizes, and profiles, visit our Tigerwood decking boards page or our complete pricing guide.
Tigerwood Sizes & Profiles
Tigerwood is available in multiple dimensions and profiles for decking, siding, and decorative applications:
Common Sizes
- 1x6 Tigerwood Decking - Most popular size
- 5/4x6 Tigerwood - Thicker option
- 1x4 Tigerwood - Narrow profile
- 2x4 & 2x6 - Heavy-duty applications
Available Profiles
- Square Edge (E4E) - Standard
- Pregrooved - For hidden fasteners
- Shiplap - For siding
- Custom profiles available
Why Choose Tigerwood?
Stunning Appearance
Dramatic striped grain pattern with rich orange-brown and dark brown streaks
Excellent Durability
High Janka rating ensures resistance to dents and wear
Natural Resistance
Highly resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage
Unique Character
No two boards look alike - each is distinctive
Color Richness
Deep, warm tones that deepen with age
Good Value
Premium looks at a mid-range price point
Installation Tips
Installation Requirements
- Pre-drilling recommended: Tigerwood is dense but relatively easy to work with
- Stainless steel fasteners: Prevents corrosion and discoloration
- Hidden fastener systems: Use pregrooved boards for clean look
- Acclimation period: Allow 7-14 days for boards to adjust to local climate
For complete guidance, see our deck installation guide.
Maintenance & Care
Tigerwood requires minimal maintenance and does not need sealing for protection from rot or insects.
Preserving Color
To maintain Tigerwood's vibrant striped appearance, apply a UV-protective oil annually. Without treatment, it will naturally fade to a uniform gray while remaining structurally sound.
Cleaning
Clean with hardwood deck cleaner or mild soap and water. Pressure washing on low setting is safe for deeper cleaning.
Why Choose Tigerwood?
Bold Tiger-Stripe Grain
Tigerwood's dramatic reddish-brown base streaked with dark contrasting grain is unlike any other hardwood species. Each board is a one-of-a-kind natural pattern â a favorite for homeowners who want a deck or exterior that makes a visual statement.
High Hardness for the Price
With a Janka hardness rating of 1,850 lbf, Tigerwood outperforms most domestic hardwoods and delivers exceptional dent and scratch resistance â at a competitive price point among tropical hardwoods. It's the performance-to-value choice for exotic decking.
Natural Durability â No Treatment Needed
Tigerwood is naturally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture decay, with an expected outdoor lifespan of 25â30 years. No pressure treatment or chemical preservatives required â its density and natural oils provide built-in protection for decades.
Versatile Applications
From pool decks and backyard entertaining spaces to exterior siding, fencing, and boardwalks, Tigerwood's stability and hardness make it suitable for virtually any exterior application where beauty and longevity both matter.
Explore our full range of Tigerwood lumber products: Tigerwood decking boards, Tigerwood wood fencing, and Tigerwood boardwalk lumber â available in standard and custom-milled profiles for residential and commercial projects.
Shop Popular Tigerwood Sizes
Browse our most popular Tigerwood products for distinctive decking projects
1x6 Tigerwood Decking
Most popular size
View Products5/4x6 Tigerwood
Thicker commercial option
View Products1x4 Tigerwood
Modern narrow boards
View ProductsPregrooved Tigerwood
For hidden fasteners
View ProductsTigerwood Siding
Dramatic exterior cladding
View ProductsTigerwood Fencing
Eye-catching privacy fences
View ProductsImportant Considerations
Moderate Hardness
Softer than the densest tropical species, though still quite durable
Color Variation
Extreme variation between boards - embrace the uniqueness
Grain Raising
May require sanding after initial weathering to smooth grain
Frequently Asked Questions About Tigerwood
Quick answers to common questions about Tigerwood hardwood
Brazilian hardwood with distinctive orange-brown color and dark striping. Janka rating of 2,160 lbf.
2,160 lbf on the Janka scale â harder than hickory, about 60% the hardness of ipe. Very durable for decking.
The stripes mellow over time and the wood weathers to silver-gray without treatment. Annual oiling preserves the dramatic striped appearance.
Less dense and slightly less durable, but more affordable with a more distinctive appearance. Both are Class A fire rated.
Available in 1x4, 1x6, and 5/4x6 decking in lengths from 8â16 ft. Also available in siding profiles.
Yes. Naturally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture. Suitable for decking, siding, and fencing.
Ready to explore Tigerwood decking?
Browse every tigerwood decking size, profile, and grade with live pricing.
Tigerwood by Application
Learn why Tigerwood excels for decking, siding, fencing, and more.
Tigerwood Decking
Tigerwood decking is the choice for homeowners who want their outdoor space to make a bold visual statement. Its dramatic striped grain patternâalternating rich orange-brown and dark brown streaksâmakes every board unique. With a Janka hardness of 2,160 lbf, Tigerwood is significantly harder than domestic hardwoods and most composites, providing excellent scratch and dent resistance for residential decks. Tigerwood is naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects, and it carries a Class A fire rating. Its warm tones actually deepen with age, creating a richer appearance over time. Available in eased-edge and pregrooved profiles, Tigerwood decking works with both face-screw and hidden fastener installation methods.
Tigerwood Siding
Tigerwood siding creates a stunning exterior accent that no other material can replicate. The distinctive striped grain pattern draws the eye and adds architectural interest to modern and contemporary designs. Available in shiplap and rainscreen profiles, Tigerwood cladding provides natural weather protection while delivering a truly unique aesthetic. Its natural resistance to rot and insects means the dramatic appearance lasts for decades. Many architects use Tigerwood siding as a feature elementâcombining it with other materials for contrastâon facades, entryways, and covered outdoor areas.
Tigerwood Fencing
Tigerwood fencing turns a functional privacy barrier into an eye-catching design feature. The dramatic striped pattern creates a fence that looks custom-built and high-end. With a Janka hardness of 2,160 lbf, Tigerwood fence boards resist dents, rot, and insect damage far longer than cedar or pressure-treated alternatives. Each board's unique grain pattern means your fence will have natural variation and character that improves with age. For homeowners who view their fence as part of their landscape designânot just a boundaryâTigerwood is an exceptional choice.