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.
As exterior cladding, Tigerwood siding provides a weather-tight barrier with exceptional impact resistance. The dense grain resists dents, hail damage, and woodpecker damage far better than cedar, pine, or fiber cement alternatives. Properly installed Tigerwood siding delivers a service life of 40+ years with minimal maintenance — an optional annual oil treatment preserves the original color, or you can let the 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 5/4 x 6 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.