Brazilian hardwood is world renowned for its strength, elegant looks, and durability. It is found in the northern regions of South America, and has become a popular choice as people become more aware of its quality and features. The wood is harder than regular teak wood and also less expensive. It comes in natural shades of red-brown and yellow-brown that can go with almost all kinds of decorative themes. It does not require any artificial staining because of its unusual but exquisite natural shades.
It has a tight, dense and fine grain structure that makes it resilient and stronger than red oak wood. It has a natural oil build-up that inhibits moisture from entering inside the layers. It can be used in humid areas because of its dense structure and remains immune to any damage from moisture. It is also easy to clean – a definite plus for the owner.
Besides its regular yellow-brown and red-brown colors, the hardwood sometimes comes with dark mahogany colors and dark black stripes. These shades are natural but rare. If left untreated, the wood develops a natural patina with age. Water based urethanes are considered best for cleaning this glaze.
Here are some important advantages of Brazilian Hardwood for you to consider if you are looking for a tough but beautiful wood for your deck:
- It has a lower total cost than composite decking.
- It is naturally resilient to mold, termites, and decay. You do not need to use any toxins and harsh chemicals to keep the pests away.
- It has a minimum lifespan of 30 years if maintained and cleaned properly.
- It is non-slippery, safe and fast drying, unlike any other wood.
- You can opt for various stains and colors to match your interiors or go with the natural finish.
Installing Brazilian hardwood is best left to professionals or seasoned DIY enthusiasts. The reason being that the wood is very hard and needs carbide saws and drill bits to cut or for the saw to penetrate through. Cutting old growth lumber is prohibited due to environmental reasons. As such, the best way to ensure an eco-friendly choice is to choose a supplier who delivers second growth lumber. It is better if the firm has been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.