Description
Cumaru wood (Dipteryx odorata), also known as Brazilian Teak or Tonka Bean wood, is an exceptionally dense tropical hardwood native to South America. It is world-renowned for its incredible strength, natural durability, and resistance to the elements. Due to its high density and “Class A” fire rating, Cumaru is a premier choice for high-end exterior decking, boardwalks, and heavy-duty flooring.
Characteristics
Color: The heartwood ranges from a medium golden-brown to a deep reddish-brown, often featuring dark grain streaks. When exposed to sunlight without UV-inhibitors, it naturally weathers to a sophisticated silvery-gray patina.
Grain: It typically features an interlocked or wavy grain with a medium texture. The wood has a naturally waxy or oily feel, which contributes to its moisture resistance.
Density and Weight: Cumaru is one of the densest hardwoods in the world, with a Janka hardness rating of approximately 3,330 lbf. It is significantly heavier and harder than domestic hardwoods like Oak or Maple, and it does not float in water.
Durability: It is rated as very durable regarding decay and rot resistance. It is highly resistant to termites, wood-boring insects, and fungal attacks, giving it a lifespan of 25 to 50 years even in direct ground contact or harsh marine environments.
Workability: Due to its extreme hardness and interlocked grain, Cumaru is difficult to work. It has a high blunting effect on tool blades and requires pre-drilling for all fasteners. Gluing can be challenging due to its high natural oil content, but it sands to a high natural luster.
Toxicity: While not considered highly toxic, the dust from sawing and sanding Cumaru can cause respiratory irritation or skin sensitivity in some individuals. The seeds of the tree (Tonka beans) contain coumarin, which gives the sawdust a faint, vanilla-like scent.
Common Uses
Exterior Decking and Boardwalks: Its resistance to wear and weather makes it a global standard for public boardwalks (such as Coney Island) and luxury residential decks.
Hardwood Flooring: Used in high-traffic residential and commercial interiors where scratch resistance and longevity are priorities.
Heavy Construction: Ideal for docks, piers, bridges, and railroad ties due to its structural integrity and rot resistance.
Outdoor Furniture: Frequently used for high-end garden benches, tables, and poolside loungers that require minimal maintenance.
