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Many modern and traditional houses feature wooden flooring. It not only gives our place a natural, classic, beautiful look but it is also one of the strongest and most durable options for flooring.

When searching for the ideal wood for flooring, don’t overlook the affordability and quality of pine flooring—a cost-effective yet excellent material choice that can transform your space.

What is Pine Flooring?

It is the flooring made from pine wood. It is a softwood with many species. It is a light yellowish wood with a prominent grain. Pine is easy to identify by small but prominent knots on its surface. It is known to be clean and contemporary and a wonderful choice for those looking for premium wooden flooring on a budget.

Different species are found all over the world, many of which are used for flooring. Top species include eastern white, jack, longleaf, sugar, and spruce pine.

It is most suitable for places requiring minimalist aesthetics and a beautiful and clear floor design. It is also favoured for the natural properties of the wood, including outstanding appearance and good durability.

Why Use Pine for Flooring?

Pine is most commonly used in regions where it is easily available at an inexpensive price or where other popular wood species are not as easily accessible.

It is considered one of the best softwood options. This is because it combines beauty with durability. Moreover, it costs less than most hardwood flooring options.

Another notable thing with pine flooring is that it comes in many varieties. With so many species, you can get it in a range of colours and specifications to meet your particular requirements.

Pine is also one of the easily available woods. It is easy to find sustainably-sourced on a budget, which is why it is one of the popular choices for wooden flooring.

Pros

There are, of course, many advantages of using pine wood flooring, such as:

• • Low maintenance & long life

It is a durable timber that can last practically forever with little maintenance. The same is true for pine flooring. With proper maintenance and care, your floor can survive many decades or generations. Also, it is relatively easy to maintain and care for. For instance, you can refinish or sand your floor on your own because it’s smooth and soft. Unlike engineered wood flooring, solid pine flooring can be sanded down many times to maintain its beauty.

• • Stunning appearance

It comes in a variety of colour options with different species. The most popular pine flooring is whitish-yellow. It is available in both clear and knotty variants, and both look equally stunning. If you are looking for a simple, clear and classic aesthetic, a pine flooring is the best choice.

• • Sustainable and affordable

It is available in abundance. As a softwood, it grows quickly and is found in many regions around the world. Most of the pine available in the market is sustainably-sourced because the logging and harvesting of pine is considered legal everywhere. Moreover, it is among the least expensive option. Compared to many popular hardwoods like walnut, mahogany and Ipe, pine wood flooring costs far less.

• • Durable

One of the prerequisites for wooden flooring is durability and stability. Pine is a stable wood and offers moderate durability. It is first treated to increase its durability in terms of resistance to moisture, cracks and insect attacks.

Cons

Like any other wooden flooring, it also has some disadvantages which you must know about before purchasing pine wood. It may not be suitable for all types of environments, such as outdoors.

• • Prone to wear

As a softwood, it is susceptible to wear and tear under heavy pressure. It can catch dents and scratches much more easily than hardwoods, which is why it should not be used in heavy-traffic places like offices or malls. However, you can easily sand or refinish your pine wood flooring if it has dents or scratches.

• • Regular maintenance is needed

To keep your floor in good condition and looking its best, routine maintenance is important. Fortunately, it is far easier to maintain and care for pine flooring than most hardwood flooring. Sanding once a year and refinishing every couple of years should be more than enough to boost your floor’s life. Also, clean up any spills and stains immediately.

Pine Flooring Alternatives

Pine may be favoured for its awesome appearance, but it’s not always the best choice when it comes to durability, which can be an important concern for commercial floors. If you are looking for a wood flooring option that can offer a pine-like appearance with better strength and durability, here are some top choices:

Hardwood – Hardwoods are both beautiful and durable (mostly). They are strong enough for heavy use and may not catch dents as easily as pine.

Laminate – This is a type of composite flooring which gives the appearance of wood and is usually more durable, especially in terms of scratch resistance.

LVT / Vinyl – Vinyl is easy to install and durable and generally costs less than solid wood. Besides the appearance, it can also give the feel of real wood flooring.

Wood-Look Concrete or Tile – There are now also available concrete and tiles that are made to look like wood. It is extensively used for wood-like flooring.

Bamboo – Bamboo is a type of grass which can be used as wood in many projects, including flooring. It is strong and durable and can survive decades.

Is Pine Wood Flooring Right for You?

It is usually a great option for all types of aesthetics and interior styles, but it is particularly recommended for places seeking a natural or classic appearance. Pine can inject a sense of serenity and warmth into your living room atmosphere.

As a splash-resistant timber, pine can be used in kitchens. But, if you’re planning to use it in bathrooms or outdoors, make sure that the wood has been adequately treated.

The flooring can also be used in commercial projects, as long as the floor is expected to receive moderate traffic and is not directly exposed to water or earth.

Pine Wood Flooring Installation & Maintenance

Even though pine floors are relatively easier to install than hardwood floors, you must hire a professional to install your floors to ensure the most efficient results and avoid accidents or damage.

The floors may be installed in different ways – click flooring, tongue and groove, nail down, and glue down. Make sure to consult an expert before starting to install your floor.

Even though it requires low maintenance, it must still be properly cared for to maintain its value and appearance and enhance its life. If properly maintained, your floor can last many decades. Routine cleaning with a dry cloth is recommended. Any spills or stains must be immediately taken care of. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance.

Where to Buy the Best Quality Pine for Flooring?

We hope these details about pine flooring help you make the right choice. If you are looking to buy high-quality and sustainable timber at the right price, please visit our website cameroontimberexport.com or contact our sales team for the next offer.

When choosing a timber company, make sure to consider factors like their market reputation, cost of wood, source of timber (sustainable or not), product quality, delivery timelines, consistency, etc. Read the online reviews of the timber company you’re planning to buy wood from.

Want to know more about wood flooring before you buy? Contact us to consult with an expert!

Timber preservation refers to the process of applying a layer of a preservation material such as oil on timber to protect it from insects, moisture, etc.

Preservation helps increase the life of the timber. A variety of preservatives are used for this purpose. Some timber preservatives can also change the colour and appearance of the wood, making it more attractive for a project.

In this article, we will talk about the different types of timber preservatives and wood preservation methods.

Why is Timber Preservation Important?

Preservation helps increase the life of timber by enhancing its durability and resistance to various elements such as insects, moisture, and weathering.

Applying a good quality preservative on timber before using it in a project will help ensure the timber lasts very long and requires little maintenance. Without preservation, the wood will go bad sooner than expected and might be damaged by insects and fungi. Preservation of wood also provides protection against water damage, which is crucial for areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

What is a Wood Preservative?

A wood preservative is a chemical used to preserve wood. It is a liquid material which is applied to wood to provide an extra layer of protection. A good preservative will protect your wood from weathering and other ailments.

Here are some other recommended properties of a timber preservative:

• It should be easy to apply – should be able to cover a large area quickly
• It should be free from harmful elements or chemicals
• Should be easily available at a good price
• Should enhance the timber’s strength & durability, not decrease it
• Should be free from bad odour
• Should be rot-resistant (resistant to insects, fungi, and moisture)
• Should be resistant to fire
• Should not get influenced by light or heat
• Should be anti-corrosion
• Should be able to reach the depth of the wood

Types of Timber Preservatives

There are a variety of timber preservatives available in the market. Different types of preservatives may be used depending on the wood type and a particular project.

Some of the most common types of wood preservatives include Coal tar, ASCU, Chemical slats, Oil paints, Solignum paints, and Creosote oil.

1. Oil-based Preservatives for Timber

Oil is one of the most common types of preservatives used to protect wood. Different oil-based preservatives are commonly used for this purpose. One popular example is coal tar.

Coal Tar is a thick liquid oil which is heated to obtain a lighter hot tar which can be easily applied to a timber surface to enhance its durability. The tar is generally applied using a brush. It is most commonly used for timber intended for outdoor use but can also be used to preserve marine timber which is used in marine applications to provide protection from water damage. It is one of the cheapest types of timber preservatives and offers resistance to fire and water. One drawback of using coal tar is that it doesn’t allow paint on it.

Oil paints are applied to wood to provide protection against moisture. This type of preservative contains paint based on oil. Generally, two or three coats of paint are applied to ensure strong protection. However, oil paints can be applied only to well-seasoned (dried) wood, otherwise, it might result in the decay of timber.

Creosote oil is produced from the purification of coal tar. It is dark brown or almost black and is less thick than tar. It is usually applied to well-seasoned timber to provide protection against termites, water and other things. It is commonly used for railway sleepers and poles. It is non-corrosive and has an unpleasant odour. Like any other oil-based preservative, creosote doesn’t allow paint on it.

2. Water-soluble Preservatives

ASCU is a water-soluble type of preservative, which comes in powder form and is mixed with water in a 6 (ASCU) to 100 (water) ratio to prepare the preservative solution, which is then applied to the timber surface generally by spraying. It is mainly used to provide protection against insects, particularly white ants. It allows paint on it, i.e. the timber can be painted after applying ASCU.

Chemical salts are another water-soluble type of preservative that is commonly used to preserve wood and enhance its strength. It is dissolved in water to make a solution which is applied to wood. It is anti-inflammatory and has no odour. Copper sulphate, mercury chloride and zinc chloride are common examples of chemical salts used for timber preservation.

3. Solignum Paints

Solignum Paints are a special type of chemical-based wood preservative, which are available in the form of termiticides and decorative coatings or paints and can be applied to wood to provide protection against a variety of insects, including white ants. One of the benefits of these preservatives is that they are available in different colour options and will enhance the appearance of your wood.

Methods of Applying Timber Preservation

The process of timber preservation involves applying a preservative on the surface of the wood and allowing it to settle before using it in a project. This is usually done during the wood processing stage, generally after drying the timber properly.

Different methods can be used to apply preservatives to wood, depending on the wood type and the intended use. These include spraying, brushing, injecting with pressure, charring, dipping, and open tank treatment.

1. Preservative Application on Timber Surface

This type of timber preservative application method involves applying preservatives on the surface of wood by spraying, brushing, or dipping.

1.1. Brushing

As the name suggests, this timber preservation method involves the use of a brush to manually apply preservatives to the wood surface. All sides of the timber are properly coated with the preservative.

1.2. Dipping

The piece of timber is dipped in a container filled with a preservative solution and left for a limited period of time to allow the preservative to fully cover the surface of the timber. This results in stronger and better-protected wood.

1.3. Spraying

A sprayer machine is used to spray the preservative solution on the wood surface. It is quicker and more efficient than brushing but less effective than dipping.

2. Preservative Soaking Application

In this type of timber preservation method, the freshly sawn wood is dipped into a pool of preservatives, where it is left for a considerable period of time to allow the preservatives to get adequately soaked into the timber. The soaking time depends on the type and thickness of the timber. Thin veneers need to be soaked for a couple of minutes while thick boards might need to be soaked for much more time.

3. Injecting Under Pressure

As the name suggests, this timber preservation technique involves injecting or forcing preservatives into timber through the application of pressure under specific temperature conditions. It can be creosote oil or any other suitable wood preservative. This method usually needs a special set-up and might be expensive.

4. Hot & Cold Timber Preservation

In this method of wood preservation, the timber is first dipped in a pool filled with a preservative. The wood is then heated at a predefined temperature and maintained the temperature for some time to allow the air inside the timber to expand and some of it leaves the wood. Then, the timber is allowed to cool down, which causes the remaining air inside it to contract, which drives the wood fibres to absorb the preservative to fill the vacuum inside.

Besides providing a protective layer, this method of wood preservation also sterilises the timber to make it free from fungi and insects. This method can achieve the nearly same results as the pressure treatment method.

5. Timber Preservation Using Charring Method

This is a traditional method of wood preservation which involves burning the surface of timber up to 15mm to create a natural protective layer which protects the inner timber from insects. The wood is first submerged in water for up to 30 minutes and then burned. This type of treatment is not suitable for outdoor wood applications and is generally used for fencing poles.

Want to Know more About Timber Preservation?

Contact Cameroon Timber Export Sarl to consult with one of our wood specialists to learn more about the best timber preservation techniques and products. If you’re looking to buy top-quality sustainable timber, wood, plywood or other wood products, visit our website Cameroontimberexport.com or call us to get a quote.

The process to manufacture wood or a wood item is not an easy one. From the production of raw wood to its processing in sawn timber and its use to manufacture an object like a door or chair, each step can take years or months.

Wood manufacturing generally refers to the process of manufacturing different items with wood. There can be various steps in a typical wood manufacturing process, such as sawing, sanding, planning, drilling, joining, and finishing, depending on the object being manufactured. Here’s everything you need to know about the process of wood manufacturing.

How is Wood Produced?

Raw wood or solid wood isn’t manufactured in a mill, but it is obtained from trees which generally grow in a forest.

Wood variants which are manufactured in a mill are commonly called engineered wood or manufactured wood.

How does wood processing work?

Processing wood means converting raw wood into usable form.

Raw wood is obtained in the form of wood logs, which are round, long, and heavy. They need to be cut down in order to make them suitable for manufacturing. This process is called sawing.

Wood logs are sawn into flat slabs which are collectively called timber or lumber. Each wood slab can be called a board.

So, the wood log is cut into slabs by its length or width as needed. Wood slabs are relatively easier to transport, handle, and use.

Steps in a Wood Manufacturing Process

The process of manufacturing wood can vary greatly depending on the end goal. From felling the tree to drying and grading lumber, here’s the exciting process of wood production:

1. Felling A Tree

The trees are sorted for cutting down. A tree is cut down either manually using an axe or hand saw or using a chainsaw, which is a faster method.

2. Sawing with a Head Rig

In the commercial logging industry, big saw machines are used for felling and processing trees into wood. Head Rig or Head Saw is a large saw that is used to cut a tree into smaller pieces. Different types of blades can be used depending on the need. Wood logs are generally cut down into long, flat planks which are easy to handle and work with and can be further processed to make different wood objects.

3. Edging

This step involves the use of tools like routers and chisels to remove unnecessary edges and defects from the wooden pieces.

4. Trimming

A trimmer is used to square off the sides and ends of a timber board to form uniform surfaces and make it ready for sale or use.

5. Sorting

Timber pieces are sorted based on sizes, dimensions, and intended use. Green (not dried) and dry timber are stored separately.

6. Ready for Drying

Timber which needs to be dried is stacked in a special arrangement to allow proper flow of air between pieces for natural drying. Pieces are arranged on spacers or stickers and left in an open but covered area to allow a continuous flow of air.

7. Drying

Kiln drying is a more effective and faster method of wood drying. It involves using a special machine called a kiln to evaporate content out of wood under specific temperature conditions. Better humidity results can be achieved through this method.

The dried wood may also need to be treated with a sealant or preservative to provide protection against insects.

8. Planing

This stage involves using a planer to smoothen out the surfaces of timber to make its width and thickness uniform. The planer removes small scraps of wood at a time to achieve a uniform surface.

Sanding is also sometimes used instead of planing to achieve a smooth wood surface and even out any splinters or rough edges. Belt sanders, disc sanders, and orbital sanders are some common types of sanding tools.

9. Grading

As the name indicates, at this stage, the final piece of lumber is assigned a grade based on its quality and other characteristics such as appearance, robustness, and durability. There are various criteria and factors considered when grading timber.

As mentioned before, wood manufacturing might also refer to the process of manufacturing a product using wood, in which case there can be various steps like shaping, turning, and finishing involved to turn raw wood into the final object like a chair or a door.

When planning to build a wood item, you do not necessarily have to cut down a tree or saw a wood log by yourself. A much better alternative is to buy sawn timber boards directly from your local woodshop or an online wood store like CameroonTimberExportSarl. You can choose and buy wood panels in customised shapes as required for your project.

Different Types of Wood Manufacturing Methods

There are various types or stages of wood manufacturing. The right method of manufacturing will depend on the end product.

Sawing

Sawing refers to the use of a saw machine to cut large pieces of timber into smaller, desired dimensions. This is the most common method of wood manufacturing, which involves cutting wood into different sizes and shapes. For example, when building a table, the timber might need to be cut into a flat slab for the tabletop and in other shapes for the legs. Different saw machines or blades can be used for different types of cutting or shapes.

There is a wide range of saw blades and machines available in the market, each suitable for a different purpose, such as table saw, jigsaw, chainsaw, coping saw, mitre saw, circular saw, band saw, hacksaw, bow saw, and veneer saw.

Drilling

Drilling is a woodworking method which involves drilling a hole into wood usually to combine two pieces of wood or wood with another surface with a screw or nail.

A variety of drilling tools are available in the market including hand drill tools, screwdrivers, etc. and machines such as a drill press and a nail gun suitable for different drilling applications. When drilling wood, the right type of screws must be used to achieve high-quality joints.

Joining

Joining is a woodworking process which involves joining two wood pieces together to form a more complex structure. For example, when making a table, legs are created separately and then joined to the tabletop using glue or screws or another method. Different types of joints are used in different wood manufacturing applications – butt joint, mitre joint, half-lap joint, tongue & groove joint, biscuit joint, etc.

The right type and amount of glue or screws must be used to ensure joints are strong and stable.

Shaping

Shaping refers to the woodworking process where a piece of wood is shaped into the desired form using tools like chisels, hand planes, and routers. The shapes achieved through this method can range from plain flat surfaces to more complex ones like round, cones, cylinders, pyramids, rings, crosses, and more.

Shaping wood is more difficult than cutting or joining and might require a specific skill set and knowledge of shaping tools.

Turning

Woodturning and shaping are often used interchangeably. It refers to the art of turning a piece of wood when building a round or circular object like a bowl or a vase.

This is achieved by processing wood through a machine called a lathe which spins it and then various tools such as chisels are used to achieve the desired turn.

Not all wood species are suitable for turning, which is why one must carefully choose the right timber for building a turning project.

Finishing

Finishing is a woodworking method where a protective layer of paint, oil, or other coating is applied to a wood product to extend its life and durability and provide protection against damage from moisture and/or insects.

Wood paint, varnish, oil, wax, etc. are commonly used for wood finishing. The tools used for finishing include a paint brush and a spray gun.

Other than providing protection, finishing can also help improve the look of the object by furnishing the desired colour or pattern. Alternatively, wood items such as beds and tables are also usually covered with a layer of attractive and waterproof laminate to achieve the desired appearance and durability.

Choosing the Right Manufacturing Wood

While wood is one of the best materials in terms of appearance and strength, it comes in many varieties and options, which can make it difficult for you to choose the right wood for your project.

Choosing the right wood is crucial for the overall success of your wood manufacturing project. There are literally hundreds of species of wood you can choose from. Then, there is engineered wood like plywood. If you’re confused or need help, make sure to consult with an expert woodworker or hire wood consulting services from a specialist.

You can visit our website to explore and choose from our wide range of top-class wood species. All our wood is sustainably-sourced and is certified for premium quality. Contact us to get started.

Brazilian teak wood, commonly known as  cumaru or Tonka, is a hardwood species native to Northern South America and commonly grows in Costa Rica and Peru.
This durable and decay-resistant wood is most commonly used for hardwood flooring. The tree, called Dipteryx odorata, is about 130-160 ft (40-50 m) tall and has a 3-5 ft (1-1.5 m) wide trunk.

Whether you’re planning to buy Brazilian teak wood for your next project or are just curious to learn more about this American wood, here’s everything there is to know about Brazilian  teak hardwood.

Brazilian Teak – What does it look like?

Freshly cut Cumaru wood, which has not yet been exposed to Sun (UV light) is a reddish brown or purple-brown and has darker yellowish-brown streaks on it. Exposure to Sun will cause the wood to lose its colour to a lighter yellowish brown.

The grain of Brazilian teak wood is fine and interlocked, and the texture is medium. Its surface usually has an oily feel due to the high oil content of the wood.

When used in flooring, the Cumaru floors are quite dark at first but the colour starts to fade after some time.

The wood is sometimes referred to as Brazilian teak because of their (Teak and Cumaru) visual similarities, however, the two species are not related to each other.

Physical Properties of Brazilian teak wood

Hardness

With a Janka hardness rating of 3,330 lbf (14,800 N), Cumaru is among the hardest woods in the world. It is almost twice as hard as the likes of teak and oak.

It is too strong, stiff, and dense and is sometimes used as an alternative to other extremely hard timber options such as Ipe and Lignum Vitae.

Besides being very hard, Cumaru is also dimensionally stable, which is why it makes a great choice for wood flooring. It is more stable than Red Oak.

Durability

Cumaru is an incredibly durable wood with excellent natural resistance to decay. It is rated as very durable in terms of weathering and decay resistance. The wood is also resistant to termites and other insects that can affect wood.

Even when used for outdoor flooring, it will not rot or be infected by insects for a long time.

Brazilian teak is an exceptionally tough and durable wood used primarily for heavy-duty flooring. Even though it’s hard & durable, it still requires constant care, or it will start losing its colour and quality with age.

Workability

>Due to its high density and interlocked grain, Brazilian Teak can be difficult to work with, especially with hand tools.

Cutting can have a blunting effect on tools because of the wood’s silica content. Due to its hardness, carbide tools are often used for cutting.

The oil content of Cumaru wood can make glueing difficult. Screwing and nailing without pre-boring may not be possible.

The sanding and machining results are good. A smooth finish can be achieved through surface-planing, given the grain is not too interlocked. Water-based finishes typically give better results than oil-based options.

Because Brazilian teak is very hard, special tools such as carbide blades and drill bits might be required to achieve proper results and avoid damaging the tools.

Sanding can be tricky and must be carefully done to avoid scratches, which can be easily noticeable after finishing. Nailing requires pre-drilling holes or nailing by hand.

When working with Brazilian Teak, be cautious to not come into direct contact with the wood, especially if you have sensitive skin, as the wood might cause skin irritation.

Care & Maintenance

To ensure a long life and maintain the quality & looks of your Brazilian teak flooring, use water-based finishes that give the best results.

Use mats and rugs wherever required, especially in high-traffic areas to protect the floor from dents or defects.

Clean frequently using a cloth mop or vacuum. Make sure that furniture legs have pads or caps to prevent scratching the floor when moving them.

Clean up any spills right away, especially things like alcohol, coffee, etc. which can leave stains.

Cumaru Hardwood Availability & Price

In South America, where this is a native hardwood, Cumaru is easily and widely available. In other parts of the world, it is imported, usually for a moderate price.

Cumaru is often favoured by woodworkers looking for low-cost lumber with outstanding durability and physical properties.

It is sometimes used in place of teak, oak and other expensive hardwoods, which are not as easily available.

Pros and Cons of Brazilian Teak

Like any other wood, there are both advantages and disadvantages of using Cumaru hardwood, and knowing about them would enable you to buy the best timber for your project.

Pros:

• Durability: Brazilian Teak  is extremely durable with an outstanding resistance to decay, rot, and insects, making it perfect for outdoor applications.
• Strength: It is a heavy and high-density wood with remarkable strength that is resistant to dents and scratches and can last a very long time.
• Longevity: With proper care, this wood can easily last for decades.
• Aesthetics: The wood is also known for its vibrant colours, ranging from dark reddish-brown to lighter yellowish-brown with darker streaks. It can give a unique & beautiful appearance to any project.
• Low Maintenance:Cumaru wood demands basic care. Routine cleaning with occasional refinishing can ensure the long life of your wooden piece.
• Sustainability:It is commonly sourced from responsibly managed rainforests and is available in plenty, thereby not having a negative impact on the environment or the ecosystem.

Cons:

• Changes Colour: Brazilian Teak wood changes its natural colour with time due to sun exposure. The colour becomes lighter with age. It can be preserved with a quality finish.
• Workability problems: Due to its extreme hardness and high density, it can be difficult to cut and work with. Planing, nailing, sanding, and finishing can be tough.
• Slippery Surface: The natural oil content of Cumaru wood can make the floors slippery, especially when used in damp conditions.
• Prone to Splitting: It can sometimes split during the installation process if proper care is not taken.
• Weight: The high weight of Cumaru wood makes it difficult to handle, especially during transportation.

Uses & Applications of Brazilian Teak Wood

As a versatile hardwood with outstanding strength and durability and moderate stability, Cumaru is used in many applications, many times as an alternative to other expensive hardwoods like teak and mahogany.

One of the most common applications of Cumaru wood is for flooring. It is extensively used for making strong, durable and robust floors for use in heavy-traffic areas such as offices and commercial facilities.

Cumaru floors are resistant to decay and insect attack, which is why they can also be used outdoors.

As a hardwood with outstanding resistance and weathering properties, Cumaru is also suitable for outdoor and marine applications, including outdoor furniture, flooring, docks, railroad ties, and decks.

Cumaru is also commonly used for making strong and high-quality furniture, including frames for beds and sofas. It is used in many other interior applications, including cabinetry.

It is extremely hard and strong, which is why it is also commonly used for heavy-duty industrial construction, such as bearing and railroad ties.

It is ideal for use in places where it might be subject to a lot of wear and tear, like in flooring and the marine industry

As a wood with good turning capabilities, Cumaru is also used for making turned objects, such as tool handles and kitchen equipment, bowls, etc.

The seed of Cumaru, which is called the tonka bean, has a unique vanilla-cinnamon scent.

The wood, its seed and other parts of the tree are used in the fragrance industry to make soap, shampoos, and perfumes.

Where to Buy Brazilian Teak Wood at the Best Price Online

If you’re a woodworker, a wood merchant or a business owner looking for the right timber for your next project, feel free to contact us to consult with a wood specialist at Cameroon Timber Export SARL.

If you’ve already selected your wood, you can visit our website or send us a message to enquire about the best price and availability of the wood you want to buy.

We deal in as many as 40+ species of hardwood and softwood timber and can provide you with high-quality sustainable wood in various dimensions at the best (wholesale) price with doorstep delivery all over the world. Contact us to get started.

Wood is generally the most favoured element for making pallets. Wood pallets are strong, attractive and can be used for a variety of applications.

However, choosing the right timber for making wood pallets can be more difficult than you think. You might need to consider a number of things and a variety of wood species in order to find that perfect timber for your pallets.

Here’s everything you need to know about the different types of wood used for making pallets:

What are Wood Pallets?

Wood pallets are made by placing several deckboards on a platform made by using three or found wooden stringers or supports.

Pallets are commonly used as a platform for holding goods. They are also sometimes used in construction and for firewood.

Materials Used to Create Wood Pallets

Wood is the most common material used for making pallets. These include softwoods and hardwoods. Many manufacturers also use a mix of different woods for making pallets.

Other than wood, paper, metal, and plastic are some other popular materials used for pallet manufacturing. Paper pallets are made from corrugated paper. aluminium, carbon steel, or stainless steel are the common choices for making metal pallets. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are commonly used for making plastic pallets.

How to Choose the Best Wood Type for Manufacturing Wood Pallets

Among the factors to be considered when choosing wood for pallets, quality and durability of the timber are the two most important things.

Hardwood is preferred over most other materials because of its natural strength and durability, which makes them perfect for manufacturing pallets. It is also a sustainable and eco-friendly option, especially when compared to non-biodegradable alternatives such as plastic and metal. Wood can be easily decomposed and is also generally cheaper (but not always).

Softwoods are also a good and cost-effective option for making high-quality pallets. They have the advantage of easy availability and lower price than hardwoods.

Here are the top factors to consider when choosing wood for pallets:

Strength: the strength of the wood is definitely an important factor in its selection for the construction of pallets. Because pallets are mostly used for load-bearing, they must be strong and sturdy.

Durability: Another factor to consider when choosing pallet wood is its durability and resistance to weather and insects, especially if you’re planning to use pallets in conditions where they might be exposed to weather and/or earth.

Weight: Pallets must be strong and durable but they should not be too heavy to handle.

Load-weight: The best type of wood for making pallets will also depend on external factors such as the amount or weight of the load you’re planning to put on the pallet. Since pallets are often used for carrying heavy loads in industries, the wood used for making such pallets must have a high density to avoid accidents.

Availability: Pallets can be made from a variety of wood types. The wood for pallets is also commonly selected based on the location where it is being made. Not all wood species are equally accessible in all parts of the world. So, a manufacturer can choose a timber he has higher or more affordable access to for making pallets.

Price: Price is another factor to affect the type of wood used for manufacturing pallets. The more easily available the wood, the cheaper it will be priced, which makes it an ideal choice for pallets for some.

Purpose or intended use: Finally, the type of wood you buy for making wood pallets will depend on where and how you plan to use it. Different applications demand different types of wood. For example, pallets intended for regular use can be made with low-density hardwoods or softwoods.

Oak and southern yellow pine are the most popular wood species used for constructing pallets.

Types of Wood for Pallets

There are the following three types of wood that can be used to make pallets:

1. High-density hardwood
2. Low-density hardwood
3. Softwood

High-Density Hardwoods for Pallets

High-density hardwoods are hardwood species with high density or weight. These wood types are generally very hard and can be moderately to very durable depending on the species.

Examples of high-density hardwood species include Birch, Cherry, Ash, Beech, Yellow Birch, Oak, Maple, Elm, and Red Maple.

Low-Density Hardwoods for Pallets

Low-density hardwoods typically have lower density or weight than high-density hardwoods. These are softer and have low to moderate durability. But, they also cost less.

Examples of low-density hardwood options for pallets include Poplar, Willow, Walnut, Linden, and Aspen.

Softwood for Pallet Making

Softwoods are wood species that are obtained from conifer trees such as pine.

This type of wood is generally softer, less dense and less durable than hardwoods. Softwood species are used as a cost-effective and more easily available alternative to hardwoods for making pallets.

Some of the most popular types of softwood for pallet manufacturing are Cedar, Cypress, Hemlock, Spruce, Spruce, Pine, and Fir.

Softwoods are more easily available and economically priced than hardwoods, which is why many wooden pallet manufacturers choose them for their apparent advantage. Even though softwoods are less dense than hardwoods, they can be as durable and strong.

Some of the most popular types of pallet wood are as follows:

1. Oak

Oak, which is a hardwood, is one of the most popular wood choices for pallets. It is prized for its incredible strength and easy availability. Oak is used in construction, furniture making, flooring and several other applications. The leftover oak wood from the primary application such as furniture construction is generally used in pallet production.

Oak is a high-density hardwood that can be used for making strong and high-quality pallets to be used in heavy-duty industrial applications. Oak pallets can take heavy loads constantly without breaking or failing.

Though oak is widely available, buying or using it exclusively for making pallets would not be a cost-effective choice because of its higher cost than pine. This is why most of the oak used in pallets comes from leftover construction wood.

One benefit of using oak over softwoods for pallets is that even thin boards of oak can provide the same level of strength as heavier boards of softer woods such as pine.

2. Pine

Pine is the most popular softwood choice for pallet manufacturing. As a softwood with good durability, pine is also easy to work with and has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications like construction and industrial pallets. Pine is also easier to find, costs less, and dries faster than most hardwoods. It can be treated with chemicals to make it resistant to a variety of pests and decay.

Pine pallets are clean and dry efficiently without any damage, which is why they’re particularly used in sensitive industries like food and pharmaceuticals. Pinewood pallets also don’t catch fungi or moulds easily. These pallets can be used for storing and carrying various products, including heavy items.

Other than oak and pine, the following wood species are also sometimes used for constructing pallets:

3. Poplar

Poplar is a type of hardwood that is rather soft, lightweight and easy to work with. It is moderately durable and has good strength and stability, which make it a popular choice for pallets intended for use in moderate-load applications. Also, poplar is easily available and is less expensive than many other hardwoods.

4. Birch

Birch is a strong and durable hardwood with a clean & smooth surface. It is commonly used for building pallets for industrial applications, particularly in the food or pharmaceutical industries, where having a flawless surface is important.

5. Beech

Beech is another popular hardwood used for pallets. It is a hard and heavy wood that can handle heavy loads and harsh treatment, making it an ideal choice for pallets for industrial and commercial applications, particularly for locations where the probability of wear and tear is high.

6. Maple

Maple is a hardwood famous for maple syrup. Hard maple such as rock maple or sugar maple is known for its strength and durability. It can resist moisture, insects, and damage from wear. It is suitable for constructing heavy-duty pallets that need to be used in high-traffic places and will last a long time.

7. Ash

Ash hardwood is strong, stable and flexible and is generally used for making pallets that may need to be flexible for applications where bending is required.

8. Mahogany

Mahogany is a hardwood that is prized for its high strength and durability. It is often used for making high-quality wood pallets intended for use in special projects where both the looks and strength of pallets are of concern.

Where to Buy the Best Wood for Pallets?

Whether you want to buy hardwood or softwood for pallets, Cameroon Timber Export SARL is your one-stop destination for high-quality, sustainable timber at wholesale price. We deal in a wide range of wood species, including pine, teak, poplar, mahogany, ash, and beech, all of which are suitable choices for building good quality wood pallets.

If you need help selecting the right wood for your project, call us to consult with one of our timber specialists.

At Cameroon Timber Export SARL, we deal in many types of wood. Maple and Oak are two of the most popular types of hardwood in our store.

These two options are extremely popular and are often compared by people looking to buy hardwood products for their homes, offices, etc.

Both hardwoods are used for many applications such as cabinets, flooring, furniture, stairs, and more.

If you’re also confused between maple and oak for your next woodworking project, here’s everything you need to know about these two hardwoods and how they are different from each other in terms of physical properties, uses, and appearance. Both are a great choice for woodworking projects, but understanding their differences can help you make the best decision for your specific project.

Before we start comparing maple and oak, you must know that both wood types are available in many species such as hard maple, soft maple, red and white oak.

Choosing between the two can be complicated for woodworking beginners, which is why we have prepared this detailed guide explaining the differences between oak and maple to help make the right choice.

About Maple Wood

It is a hardwood that comes from maple trees. It is a strong wood known for its durability, attractiveness, and versatility, making it a good choice. Maple wood has a light to medium yellowish colour with a fine and uniform grain pattern. It is widely used in furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and various other projects due to its beautiful appearance and robustness.

Types of Maple: Within the Maple category of hardwoods, there are many species, all of which can be divided into two types – Hard Maple and Soft Maple. When it comes to determining the durability and strength of Maple, the janka hardness rating is a useful metric to consider.

Hard Maple

Hard maple (sapwood) is a light, white-yellowish wood that is preferred for use in contemporary spaces, particularly for making modern furniture and hardwood flooring.

Its attractive & unique figured grain pattern further adds to its beauty and makes it perfectly fit any modern decor.

Hard Maple is a versatile hardwood used in many applications ranging from flooring and cabinetry to furniture, custom woodwork, interior moulding & trim, countertops, baseball bats, tool handles, and clamp locks.

Hard maple, also known as Rock Maple or Sugar Maple, is a very hard and strong wood (Janka rating 1,450 lbf) which is obtained from a tree called Acer saccharum and is commonly found in the Northeastern United States.
Hard maple is prized for its durability and strength. However, it may be slightly more difficult to work than soft maple.

It is a stable wood that can last very long depending on its physical condition and proper installation. Maple can be prone to dents and scratches. It turns and finishes well but can be difficult to stain.

Soft Maple

Soft Maple refers to a category of maple wood species that are lighter and less dense than Hard Maple. They usually have a straight and fine grain with occasional curls or waves.
The colour of this type of maple ranges from off-white to light yellowish-brown with some reddish hue.

Soft Maple is smooth and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for woodworkers. It stains well unlike hard maple.

It is slightly less durable than Hard Maple and not very resistant to rot and decay. It is often used as a cost-effective alternative to hard maple. 

Common uses of soft maple species include indoor furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, panelling, veneer, and musical instruments.

The common types or species of Soft Maple include Bigleaf Maple, Box elder, Red maple, White/silver maple, and Striped maple.

About Oak Wood

It is a strong hardwood tree from the Quercus genus, known for its durability and attractive grain patterns.

Its wood is used across many applications in furniture, flooring, outdoor, construction, cabinetry, and more.

Types of Oak: All oak wood species can be divided into two types – Red and White Oak.

Red Oak

Top red oak species include Black Oak, California Black, Cherrybark, Laurel, Pin, Scarlet, Southern Red Oak, Water Oak, and Willow Oak.

Each species of red oak has its own characteristic grain and texture. Some common Oak wood grain patterns include rings, strips, flecks, and wavy.

The heartwood of Red oak is typically medium reddish-brown and lighter than white oak. It has a straight, coarse and porous grain with medium-to-large pores.

Red oak is not very resistant to decay or insects, but it is very strong and dense and can resist dents and scratches well.

It is easy to work with and reacts well to steam bending. Dimensional stability can be a concern due to high shrinkage values. It takes stains, glues, and finishes well.

Common uses of Red oak include cabinetry, indoor furniture, interior trim, flooring, and veneer.

White Oak

Common types of white oak include Bur, Chestnut, Overcup, Post Oak, Sessile Oak, Swamp Chestnut Oak, English Oak, Oregon White Oak, and Swamp White Oak.

White oak is slightly darker than red oak, usually with a medium brown colour and an olive cast.

It has a straight but fairly coarse grain with medium-to-large pores. It is also harder and stronger and more durable than red oak.

White oak is highly cherished for its ability to resist decay and insect attacks. It is a very durable wood perfect for boatbuilding and outdoor projects like furniture and decking.

It is easy to work with and bends (steam bending), glues, stains and finishes easily

White oak wood is commonly used for furniture, cabinetry, moulding, flooring, boatbuilding, construction, wine barrels, panelling, plywood, veneers, and fence posts.

Maple vs Oak

Both hardwoods obtained from deciduous trees with edible leaves. There are a few similarities and many differences between the two wood species.

Maple vs Oak: Appearance

Sawn Maple has a creamy, whitish colour with fine & visible grain patterns and occasional figures.

Due to its light colour and smooth appearance, it is favoured for contemporary flooring. Both hard and soft maple are suitable for flooring.

Red Oak has a light colour with pinkish-red hints in the heartwood. Medium to heavy grain patterns are common. White Oak is slightly darker.

Both maple and oak look outstanding in their respective applications.

Maple vs Oak: Styling

Because of its porous structure, oak wood is easier to stain compared to Maple wood. Maple looks better with a natural finish.

Maple boards have attractive grain patterns that fit every style, especially modern decor. It has a light and smooth appearance particularly suitable for larger, open spaces.

Oak wood has distinct & exciting grain patterns which give a unique personality to the product made of this wood.

Oak has more of a classic appearance which works well with both modern and traditional interiors.

Maple vs Oak: Durability

Both Oak and Maple woods are known for their durability, and they can withstand moisture, insects and weathering, which ensures long life.

Maple is a hard & strong wood. Its high density makes Maple an excellent option for areas with a lot of foot traffic. It doesn’t dent or warp easily.

White Oak is almost as hard as maple and more durable. It is very sturdy and can resist decay, insects, scratches and dents impressively well.

White Oak is considered the best choice for outdoor woodworking because of its ability to resist decay.

Maple vs Oak: Workability

Maple is generally more challenging to work with due to its dense and hard nature, which can make cutting, shaping, and sanding difficult.

In contrast, Oak is known for its excellent workability, being easier to cut, shape, and sand compared to Maple.

Oak is also less likely to burn during cutting, making it more forgiving for woodworking tasks.

Woodworkers choose between Maple and Oak based on their project’s requirements and their level of experience with each type of wood.

Maple vs Oak: Cost

Oak is better than maple in terms of physical strength and durability. Due to its higher demand, oak is usually a bit more expensive than Maple.

The cost of the wood depends on factors like availability, location, the dimensions of boards, the grade of the lumber, etc.

Oak vs Maple: Uses

Both Oak and Maple are used for flooring. Oak is favoured for its grain patterns and natural beauty. Maple is harder and sturdier.

Maple is commonly used for flooring, cabinetry, furniture, custom woodwork, interior moulding & trim, countertops, baseball bats, tool handles, clamp locks, indoor furniture, panelling, veneer, and musical instruments.

Common uses of oak wood include cabinetry, furniture, interior trim, flooring, veneer, furniture, moulding, boatbuilding, construction, wine barrels, panelling, plywood, and fence posts.

Where to Buy Maple and Oak Wood Online at the Best Price?

If you are still confused and need help selecting the right wood between oak and maple for your next woodworking project, you can contact us at CameroonTimberExportSarl  to consult with our woodworking specialists for making an informed decision.

If you need to buy high-quality sustainable hardwoods at the best price online with doorstep delivery worldwide, you can visit our website or get in touch with our sales team to enquire about our wood availability and specifications. Contact us to know more.

Marine plywood is a type of manufactured wood product that’s considered ideal for water-based environments. It’s incredibly strong and durable and can withstand moisture without getting damaged.

This makes it perfect for a wide range of water-based wood applications such as boat building, yachts, outdoor furniture, dock, aquarium, and use in bathrooms and kitchens.

Marine plywood is nowadays easily available in retail stores. They have high demand but good availability.

Also, you must know that marine plywood comes in many grades or types varying in terms of strength, durability, and price. It is generally more expensive than regular plywood.

Here’s everything you need to know about the different grades of Marine Plywood.

What is Marine Plywood?

It is a type of engineered wood specifically designed for use in marine or water-based environments.

It is made using high-quality wood veneers that are bonded together with waterproof glue or other adhesive to form a very strong board.

Marine plywood is different from regular plywood due to its enhanced resistance to moisture, decay, and fungal growth.

The use of waterproof glues or resins and high-quality wood species, preferably hardwoods, provide incredible strength and durability to this plywood.

Hardwood veneers, such as meranti or Douglas fir, are commonly used for making marine plywood.

Uses of this plywood range from boat and shipbuilding to many other marine applications like docks, decks, flooring, and outdoor furniture, especially ones intended for use near water bodies.

Its ability to withstand water exposure provides longevity to the projects where this plywood is used.

Different Types of Marine Plywood Grades

There are multiple types of marine plywood grades available in the market, each with its own characteristics and intended uses. Here are some of the top grades of marine plywood:

1. A-A Marine Grade Plywood

This is the highest quality marine plywood. It has a smooth and perfect surface on both sides without any patches, knots or holes.

It is constructed using high-quality, durable hardwood veneers and waterproof adhesives or glue. Both sides are A-grade, i.e. the highest quality veneer.

A-A marine grade plywood is nearly waterproof, which makes it suitable for building boats, yachts, and other marine construction where both aesthetics and excellent strength are required.

A-A grade is also called exterior grade plywood because of its high quality and decay resistance. It is commonly used in high-end applications and for making nearly waterproof objects.

Examples of the uses of A-A grade marine plywood include boat building, decks, docks, outdoor furniture, and siding.

Pros of A-A grade Marine Plywood

• Superior quality plywood. Both sides are made of high-quality A-A grade, water-resistant veneer.
• Very durable and stable
• Extremely strong
• ersatile applications. Suitable for use in both indoor and outdoor woodworking projects.
• Needs low maintenance and is prone to daily wear and tear.

Cons

• It can be quite expensive because it uses high-quality and sometimes rare solid wood species such as Ipe. It is the most expensive type of plywood.

2. A-B Marine Grade Plywood

This type of marine plywood is strong but not as strong as the A-A grade plywood.

This is high-quality and durable plywood with good resistance to moisture. This plywood has A-grade veneers on one side (smooth and void-free) while the other side has B-grade veneers (having minor patches or repairs).

It is still resistant to moisture to some extent and is considered suitable for various marine applications, especially ones where one side will be in contact with the water while the other can be hidden or covered.

The B-grade veneer is of slightly lower quality than the A-grade and may have defects and knots on its surface.

Some common uses of the A-B marine plywood include boatbuilding, construction, subfloors, and exterior applications.

It can be used in applications where the front face (A-grade) is exposed while the other face is hidden or covered.

Pros of A-B grade plywood

• High-quality plywood made from durable hardwood species
• Defect-free one side
• Durable in terms of resistance to moisture, decay, warping, and cracking
• Less expensive than A-A grade plywood

Cons

• Still very expensive, especially when compared to regular plywood
• The back side panel (B-grade) is not very attractive and might require additional finishing

3. B-B Marine Grade Plywood

This type of marine plywood has B-grade veneer on both sides, i.e. both sides of this grade plywood may have defects, repairs, or holes.

B-B marine-grade plywood is moderately strong and durable and not extremely resistant to weather.

It is commonly used for structural applications in exterior projects such as boats or docks where appearance is not a concern. It can provide good strength and moderate moisture resistance to any project.

B-B grade plywood is made of veneer that is strong and durable but has knots and defects which might affect its appearance, which is why this plywood is not commonly used for projects such as furniture where the appearance of the wood matters.

It is commonly used for building the structure for boats and ships and for making subflooring, sheathing and similar construction projects.

It is generally easy to work with and is considered a good option for DIY projects.

Pros of B-B Marine Grade Plywood

• Cost-effective compared to the other two options. If you’re looking for strong and water-resistant plywood at a low cost, this is the best option.
• Easier to work with than higher grade plywood or solid wood. It is less dense and lighter and can be cut and shaped easily.
• It is a versatile plywood type that can be used in a variety of applications ranging from interior millwork to outdoor furniture and subflooring.

Cons

• Not as strong or durable as A-grade plywood options.
• Moderately resistant to moisture. Cannot withstand extreme weather conditions.
• Not very attractive. Knots and defects may be there on both sides of this plywood, which makes it not the best option for projects where appearance is a concern.

4. MDO (Medium-Density Overlay)

Medium-Density Overlay (MDO) is a type of marine-grade engineered wood product used in outdoor applications due to its water-resistant properties.

It is made by combining a medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or particle board core with a layer of resin-impregnated kraft paper to provide a durable and weather-resistant structure. Basically, it is a water-resistant MDF panel.

MDO is used in many applications, including as a substrate for outdoor signs, siding and cladding, as a forming material for concrete structures, and for making cabinets and furniture.

Pros of Medium-Density Overlay:

• MDO is highly durable in terms of resistance to moisture, weathering, and UV radiation, making it perfect for outdoor use.
• It has a smooth and uniform surface which makes an excellent base for painting, printing (graphics), and applying finishes.
• It is a strong and stable plywood material which is less prone to warping, swelling, or shrinking.
• MDO is easy to use and can be easily cut, shaped, and drilled for various applications.

Cons:

• As a building material, MDO can be expensive.
• MDO is denser than regular plywood. It can be heavier and difficult to handle and transport.
• MDO is only available in standard sizes.

5. HDO (High-Density Overlay)

High-Density Overlay (HDO) is a type of engineered wood product that is similar to plywood as it is constructed by combining different layers of veneer.

It is different from MDO in terms of its higher density and strength and better surface characteristics.

It is made by combining HDF or fibreboard with resin-impregnated fibre surface on one or both sides to form an extra strong plywood material ideal for construction and structural applications. It is durable and wear-resistant and can take heavy loads.

Common uses of High-Density Overlay (HDO) include as a formwork material in concrete construction, industrial applications such as industrial shelving, workbenches, etc., and in the transport industry for truck flooring, trailer linings, and container floors.

Pros of High-Density Overlay (HDO):

• High density and excellent strength and durability 
• It can withstand heavy loads, wear & tear, and rough handling
• It has a smooth, consistent surface and achieves a high-quality finish for applications like concrete formwork.
• Easy cleaning and maintenance.
• It is resistant to moisture and chemicals and can be used in outdoor applications.

Cons:

• HDO can be more expensive compared to regular plywood and other building materials.
• HDO is dense and heavy and can be challenging to handle and transport.
• It may not be as easily or widely available as regular plywood products and it comes in limited options in terms of thicknesses and sizes.

Alternatives to Marine Plywood

Some solid wood species, particularly hardwoods, are extremely strong and durable in terms of resistance to decay and rot.

These include Ipe, redwood, cypress, and shorea. These woods are often the primary choice over engineered wood (plywood) for household applications.

However, their limited availability and expensive price have forced people to look for alternatives such as marine plywood, which is less expensive than many hardwoods.

One must also know that marine plywood is water resistant, but it’s not 100% waterproof.

It can withstand moisture to an extent but will eventually start rotting if left in the water for a very long time.

It is generally protected with an extra layer of high-quality finish to provide better resistance to water.

Pressure-treated lumber is also often used as a water-resistant option for marine applications.

Know More or Buy Wood Online?

Want to know more about the best marine plywood grade options or the best hardwood options for outdoor use? Contact Cameroon Timber Export SARL to discuss your timber requirements with our expert and buy the best quality premium, sustainable wood at the right price with worldwide shipping.

Wenge is a popular hardwood known for its unique appearance and incredible strength and durability in terms of termite resistance. It is commonly used for furniture, panelling, veneer, musical instruments, and turned objects.

Due to the high demand and over-exploitation of Wenge over the last few decades, the availability of new forests is scarce, which is why it is now considered an endangered wood species.

Here’s everything you need to know about Wenge wood’s properties and uses.

What is Wenge Wood?

Wenge is a popular hardwood species of the class (scientific name) Millettia laurentii. It is a tree of the legume family and is primarily found in Central Africa, including Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon.

Other names for Wenge are African rosewood, dikela, mibotu, faux ebony, bokonge, and awong.

Wenge is considered an exotic wood owing to its stunning appearance with a dark brownish hue and almost black streaks and outstanding physical properties.

Due to its over-harvesting and exploitation over the last few decades, Wenge is now regarded as an endangered species and may not be easily available or can be expensively priced.

Wenge Wood Properties

Technical Specifications:

• Average Dried Weight: 54.2 lbs/ft3 (870 kg/m3)
• Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): 0.72, 0.87
• Janka Hardness: 1,930 lbf (8,600 N)
• Modulus of Rupture: 21,990 lbf/in2 (151.7 MPa)
• Elastic Modulus: 2,550,000 lbf/in2 (17.59 GPa)
• Crushing Strength: 11,710 lbf/in2 (80.7 MPa)
• Shrinkage: Radial: 4.8%, Tangential: 8.1%,

 Volumetric: 12.9%, T/R Ratio: 1.7

Appearance

One of the key characteristics of Wenge is its stunning appearance. The heartwood of Wenge has a colour ranging from medium brown to reddish or dark yellowish and is covered with almost black streaks.

The application of a finish like oil can turn the wood to almost black, nearly similar to eboy (which is why the name faux ebony).

The colour of Wenge wood will generally become lighter when exposed to sunlight.

The unique colour-streaks combination of wenge has become so popular that it is now used as a distinct colour/pattern system in many places around the world.

The grain of wenge wood is straight, even, and attractive, and the texture is coarse. It has a low natural lustre.

Wenge timber usually maintains a consistent colour throughout its length, which turns to darker deep chocolate or black over time.

Wenge Tree

Wenge wood is obtained from a tree called Millettia laurentii, which is found in Central Africa. It is about 60-90 ft (18-27 m) tall and has a 3-4 ft (1-1.2 m) trunk diameter.

However, Wenge trees with up to 50 metres height have also been seen. Wenge trees have a purple-blue colour flower, which blooms during spring and summer. Other parts of the tree, including bark and leaves, are often used for medicinal purposes.

Density & Weight

The average dried weight of wenge wood is 870 kg/m3, which makes it one of the densest woods in the world. Wenge is so heavy that it cannot float on water.

With a 1,930 lbf Janka rating, Wenge is an extremely hard & strong wood.

Durability

Due to its unique structure and the presence of natural oils, Wenge is exceptionally durable and is naturally resistant to insects such as termites. It is also very dense and strong and is prone to general wear and tear.

Wenge timber can be used anywhere, inside and outside, without needing any chemical treatment to enhance its properties.

Workability

Wenge timber is generally difficult to work with due to its hardness and density. It can have a blunting effect on cutters & tool edges and can cause heating of blades during cutting.

It also has splinters on unfinished surfaces, which can be big enough to cause harm and risk of infections. It has large pores which can make it difficult to achieve a smooth finish.

Light and dark areas of the wood have different densities, which can make sanding uneven. It is easy to paint and polish though. Screwing and nailing might require pre-drilling.

Wenge wood can take considerable time to dry completely. It, however, requires low maintenance.

Availability & Price

Due to the high demand and over-exploitation of wenge trees over the past few years, this has become a scarce and expensive wood.

Over 50% of the wenge forests have been harvested over the last century, leaving limited availability of new wenge trees for timber.

As an endangered wood species, wenge is not commercially sold in many regions. However, it may be available in limited amounts with local or online wood merchants in some places.

Make sure that the wenge timber you’re buying is genuine and comes from an authentic source.

The price of wenge timber has increased significantly over the past years due to the increasing demand and limited availability of fresh wood.

Uses of Wenge Wood

Wenge is an ideal wood for many domestic and commercial woodworking applications. The only downside of this wood is that it can be difficult to work with owing to its hardness and density.

Because Wenge is dense, tough, and resistant to scratching and abrasion, it is the perfect choice for flooring. Even when used in high-traffic commercial premises, wenge flooring can withstand daily wear & tear without gettings dents or scratches. It can last years with little maintenance.

Wenge is also a wonderful but expensive choice for furniture making. Due to its aesthetic appeal and dark colour (similar to ebony), wenge is often used for making premium quality furniture, chairs, bed frames, and cabinets that can last very long.

Wenge is also considered a good option for making beautiful & high-end Musical Instruments, especially instruments that are built to last. Many top musical instrument manufacturers such as Mosrite, Ibanez, Court, Warwick, and Conklin Guitars make use of Wenge wood in their manufacturing process to achieve a stunning appearance and robustness.

Because wenge wood is easy to turn and can be shaped into many forms, it is also commonly used in segmented woodturning and to make various turned objects.

Wenge is also used for making sports equipment, especially strong & high-quality flatbows. As a strong and stiff hardwood, it has good shock resistance, which makes it a great choice for tool handles and sports equipment.

Due to its high density, strength, and stability, wenge is commonly used in the construction of building structures, panelling, veneers, plywood, and furniture.

Because it is naturally resistant to insects and decay, wenge is also a suitable wood for exterior applications such as outdoor furniture, decks, docks, and more.

Other than the above, Wenge wood has many other uses such as high-quality walking canes & handholds for canes, veneering, and panelling.

Where to Buy Wenge Wood?

As we mentioned, wenge wood is not easily or widely available. Only a few merchants will have them. If you are looking to buy wenge timber, you can contact Cameroon Timber Export SARL, one of the leading timber merchants & exporters in the region, to check availability and price.

With a Janka rating of 2,690 lbf, Jatoba wood is one of the hardest woods in the world. It’s a hardwood found primarily in Central America, the West Indies, southern Mexico, and northern South America.

Jatoba, also called Brazilian Cherry for its similar looks, is a hard and heavy wood with remarkable durability in terms of resistance to rot and termites. It is, however, difficult to work with owing to its high density. It is mainly used for furniture, flooring, tool handles, cabinetry, and shipbuilding.

Here’s everything you need to know about Jatoba hardwood’s physical properties and uses.

What Is Jatoba Wood?

Jatoba wood, also known as Brazilian cherry wood, is a type of hardwood obtained from the species Hymenaea courbaril, which is native to South and Central America among other parts of the world. Jatoba wood is a popular choice for various woodworking applications due to its attractive appearance, durability, and strength.

Jatoba wood is known for its excellent hardness and natural resistance to wear, insects and rot, which make it suitable for flooring, furniture, and cabinetry, as well as outdoor applications such as boatbuilding. It is also commonly used in applications that require a durable and attractive wood.

Despite its high popularity and demand, Jatoba wood is readily available and is usually inexpensive compared to other more popular hardwoods. Let’s take a look at Jatoba wood’s physical characteristics.

Jatoba Wood Properties

Having an idea of the physical properties of Jatoba would make it easy for you to identify the wood and/or determine whether it is the right wood type for your next project. Here you go.

Technical Characteristics of Jatoba Wood:

• Average Dried Weight: 57 lbs/ft3 (910 kg/m3)
• Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .77, .91
• Janka Hardness: 2,690 lbf (11,950 N)
• Modulus of Rupture: 22,510 lbf/in2 (155.2 MPa)
• Elastic Modulus: 2,745,000 lbf/in2 (18.93 GPa)
• Crushing Strength: 11,780 lbf/in2 (81.2 MPa)
• Shrinkage: Radial: 4.2%, Tangential: 8.0%, Volumetric: 12.1%, T/R Ratio: 1.9

Hymenaea Courbaril Tree

Jatoba wood is obtained from a tree called Hymenaea courbaril or West Indian locust. The tree’s height is about 100-130 ft (30-40 m) and the average trunk diameter is 2-4 ft (.6-1.2 m).

Appearance

The Brazilian cherry’s hardwood colour typically ranges from light orangish or reddish-brown to darker red and the surface sometimes has darker streaks. The heartwood colour becomes darker upon exposure to light. The sapwood is light-coloured, typically greyish-yellow and easily identifiable from the heartwood.

Jatoba wood has a medium to coarse texture, and its grain is usually interlocked, which can sometimes result in a striped or wavy pattern. Jatoba wood often exhibits a high natural lustre, especially when polished.

The end grain, when looked closely, has very few but large pores.

Hardness & Strength

Jatoba is amongst the hardest woods in the world having a hardness (Janka) rating similar to the likes of Marblewood and Amazon Rosewood. It is exceptionally strong and stiff. The average density of Jatoba is about 14g/cm³, which makes it one of the best options for heavy construction work such as flooring and furniture making.

Durability & Resistance

Jatoba wood is a blessing for woodworkers looking for a strong and durable wood that is naturally resistant to many types of insects and rot and is also inexpensive.

Jatoba is rated as extremely durable. It is resistant to most insects, including termites. However, it can be prone to attack from marine borers. It is also resistant to moisture and can withstand extreme weather conditions without rotting.

Workability

Jatoba wood can be difficult to work with due to its high density and hardness. The interlocked grain of this wood can have a blunting effect on cutters and usually results in tear-outs when planing.

Jatoba, however, is easy to bend using steam bending and it also glues, finishes, stains, and turns really well.

Availability & Price of Jatoba Wood

a href=”https://cameroontimberexport.com/product/jatoba-timber/”>Jatoba timber is easily and widely available at inexpensive prices. It is imported into the UK from its native places and is moderately priced, which makes it a wonderful choice for woodworkers looking for hard and strong wood on a budget. It’s available in various sizes, including large flooring planks.

Jatoba is not on the list of threatened species, however, purchasing from an authorised supplier is recommended for sustainability concerns.

Uses of Jatoba Wood

Jatoba is a versatile wood and is considered suitable for use in a wide range of applications across construction, furniture, flooring, cabinetry, tool handles, decorative, and more.

Flooring: Jatoba wood is extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear, which makes it suitable for heavy-duty applications, especially flooring for both residential and commercial premises. It can also be used for flooring in kitchens and bathrooms as it is resistant to moisture and the colour or quality will not fade even with constant exposure to water.

Outdoor: Jatoba wood is resistant to termites and moisture and will not decay for years even when left outside. It is commonly used in outdoor applications, such as decking, fencing, and outdoor furniture. It is also used for building parts of ships and boats.

Furniture: As a beautiful hardwood with a stunning dark brownish-red hue and attractive grain patterns, Jatoba makes a wonderful choice for making a variety of furniture items for both indoor and outdoor use. The high strength and durability of Jatoba make it perfect for practically any kind of furniture, including heavy-duty items such as bed frames and tables. It is also commonly used for making outdoor furniture. Jatoba is also used for making kitchen furniture because it is resistant to moisture.

Cabinetry: Due to its attractive appearance and high strength, Jatoba is also an ideal choice for making cabinets, wardrobes, and wooden shelves. Jatoba cabinets are strong and sturdy and resistant to moisture and insects and will last many years without a lot of maintenance.

Construction: As a strong and dense wood, Jatoba is considered a good choice for heavy construction applications, especially outdoor uses such as building decks, fencing, docks, etc. where it might be exposed to moisture and heat. The wood can withstand moisture and heat and will also not lose its colour but can get darker when exposed to light over time. Due to its natural resistance to decay, Jatoba is also commonly used in docks.

Musical Instruments: The hard and durable jatoba wood is used for making fretboards for guitars and also other body parts for many popular musical instruments.

Other than the above, Jatoba wood is also used for making tool handles and other turned items such as bowls, vases, etc., decorative products, and small specialty items.