EXOTIC WOODS USED FOR DECKS

Exotic woods can make stunning decking materials, prized for their unique appearance, durability, and natural resistance to decay and insects. Here are some popular exotic woods used for decking:

Ipe (pronounced EE-pay): Also known as Brazilian Walnut, Ipe is one of the most popular choices for exotic decking. It's extremely dense and durable, resistant to rot, decay, insects, and even fire. Its deep brown color can vary, but it often darkens with age, giving it a rich, luxurious appearance.

Cumaru: Sometimes called Brazilian Teak, Cumaru is another dense and durable option for decking. It has a range of colors from golden brown to reddish-brown and offers good resistance to rot, decay, insects, and mold. Like Ipe, Cumaru can darken over time.

Tigerwood: Tigerwood, also known as Goncalo Alves, features a striking appearance with a combination of reddish-brown and dark stripes, resembling a tiger's coat. It's durable and resistant to rot, decay, and insects. Tigerwood can be more prone to scratching compared to some other exotic woods.

Garapa: Garapa, also known as Brazilian Ash, has a light golden to yellowish-brown color when new, which can mellow to a silver-gray over time. It's a dense and durable wood with good resistance to rot, decay, and insects. Garapa is often more affordable than some other exotic options.

Massaranduba: Massaranduba, also called Brazilian Redwood, is known for its deep reddish-brown color. It's extremely dense and durable, offering excellent resistance to rot, decay, insects, and fire. Massaranduba can be a bit harder to work with due to its density.

Mahogany: While not always considered exotic, certain types of mahogany, such as Cambara and Meranti, are used for decking and offer similar characteristics to other exotic woods. Mahogany has a rich reddish-brown color and good resistance to rot and decay.

Brown Balau is from Indonesia and is also an excellent option

When choosing an exotic wood for decking, consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, budget, and availability. Additionally, keep in mind the environmental impact and sustainability of harvesting exotic woods, and look for options certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure responsible sourcing practices.