Tigerwood, also known as Goncalo Alves, is a premium tropical hardwood sourced from Tropical Central and South America (Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela). With a Janka hardness rating of 2,160 lbf and a density of 58 lbs/ft³, Tigerwood is classified as Class 2 - Durable — one of the most durable commercial lumber species available. The heartwood exhibits golden to reddish-brown with dramatic dark brown to black stripes with interlocked to wavy grain, medium texture, creating a striking natural appearance that improves with age.
Why Choose 5/4x6 Tigerwood Wood for Your Deck?
Tigerwood decking delivers a naturally slip-resistant, splinter-free surface that stays cool underfoot even in direct sunlight. Unlike composite or pressure-treated alternatives, it never fades to a dull gray unless you want the natural silver patina look. Properly installed 5/4x6 Tigerwood decking delivers a service life of 40+ years with minimal maintenance — an optional annual oil treatment preserves the original color, or you can let the Tigerwood wood weather to a distinguished silver-gray patina. Tigerwood carries a Class A - Low flame spread, making it suitable for wildfire-prone regions where code-compliant materials are required.
The 5/4x6 tongue & groove (T&G) profile features interlocking edges that create a seamless, flush surface with no visible gaps. Ideal for porch ceilings, soffit installations, and covered porch floors. All Tigerwood lumber is available in Select and Better grade with lengths ranging from 4′ to 20′. For detailed step-by-step instructions, consult our Tigerwood installation guide. Long-term care recommendations are covered in our Tigerwood maintenance guide.
5/4x6 Tigerwood Decking — Installation & Coverage Specs
- Recommended joist spacing: 16"–24" on center for 5/4x6 boards (1" actual thickness)
- Fastener placement: Secure per profile requirements, one fastener per joist minimum
- Board weight: A 12-foot 5/4x6 Tigerwood board weighs approximately 27 lbs (2.22 lbs/LF)
- Coverage: Each 12-foot 5/4x6 board covers 5.5 sq ft of decking surface (5.5" face width)
- Pre-drilling required: Always pre-drill in Tigerwood — the 2,160 lbf hardness prevents direct screwing