HARDWOODS · ABOUT THIS GUIDE If you’re familiar with HGTV or Dwell magazine you’ve probably...

HARDWOODS

TimberTown

http://TimberTownUSA.com

Garapa Hardwood DeckAtlanta, GA

ABOUT THIS GUIDEIf you’re familiar with HGTV or Dwell magazine you’ve probably seen the word “Ipe” or “Brazilian Hardwood” pop up a few times. There’s no doubt that tropical hardwoods are becoming more and more popular for decks, siding, and other modern applications, but how do you make sure you’re specifying the right material for your project? We put together a guide with all of the technical and aesthetic information you need to make the right hardwood choice for your upcoming project.

CreditsMuch of the Species Characteristics and Properties were provided by Eric Meier from www.wood-database.com.

ABOUT TIMBERTOWNCreating a space to relax and entertain shouldn’t be left to chance. As a specialty lumber yard, TimberTown can help you find the best decking, railing, accessories, siding and soffits for your indoor and outdoor projects. Whether you’re looking for Cedar, Treated Pine, tropical hardwoods like Ipe, or the best composite brands like Trex, Azek or TimberTech we can provide quality materials and superb service by friendly people.

TimberTown.com/hardwoods TimberTownHARDWOODS

http://www.wood-database.com

http://timbertown.com/hardwoods


http://TimberTown.com

Ipe (EE-pay) is an incredibly durable Brazilian Hardwood, and is rated by the US Forest Lab for 25 years plus, which is the highest rating they offer. This hardwood is perfect for exterior commercial and residential applications such as decks, docks, siding, or exterior furniture. From Dinner Key Marina in Miami to the Coney Island Boardwalk in New York City, Ipe has proven durability. It can be sealed to maintain its natural beauty or weather to a beautiful silver gray.

Ipe resists surface checking and is naturally resistant to molds, which are the two most destructive forces to decks and other exterior projects. When compared to other decking materials such as redwood, cedar, or pressure treated materials, Ipe lasts longer and is naturally more resistant to fire, weather, insects, moisture and movement. If you compare the one time cost of Ipe to the 3-5 times you need to replace other materials over the lifespan of Ipe, the value of this tropical hardwood becomes clear!

TimberTown.com/hardwoodsTimberTownHARDWOODS




Common Name(s)Ipe (ee-pay), Ironwood, Brazilian Walnut, LapachoScientific NameHandroanthus spp. (formerly Tabebuia) DistributionTropical Americas (Central and South America)Tree Size100-130 ft. tall with a 2-4 ft. trunk diameterColor/AppearanceHeartwood can vary in color from reddish brown, to a more yellowish olive brown or darker blackish brown; sometimes with contrasting darker brown/black stripes. In certain species, there are powdery yellow deposits within the wood. Ipe can be difficult to distinguish visually from Cumaru, another dense South American timber, though Ipe tends to be darker, and lacks the subtle yet characteristic vanilla/cinnamon scent while being worked. Grain/TextureHas a fine to medium texture, with the grain varying from straight to irregular or interlocked. Moderate natural luster.EndgrainDiffuse-porous; solitary and radial multiples; medium to large pores in no specific arrangement, moderately numerous to numerous; tyloses and mineral/gum deposits occasionally present; parenchyma unilateral, winged, and marginal; narrow rays, spacing normal; ripple marks present.Rot ResistanceRated as very durable; excellent insect resistance, though some species are susceptible to marine borers. Superb weathering characteristics.

WorkabilityOverall, Ipe can be a difficult wood to work, being extremely hard and dense, with high cutting resistance during sawing. Ipe also has a pronounced blunting effect on cutting edges. The wood generally planes smoothly, but the grain can tear out on interlocked areas. Also, Ipe can be difficult to glue properly, and surface preparation prior to gluing is recommended. Straight-grained wood turns well, though the natural powdery yellow deposits can sometimes interfere with polishing or finishing the wood.

Odor Ipe has a mild scent while being worked.

Allergies/ToxicityAlthough severe reactions are quite uncommon, Ipe has been reported to cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, as well as other effects such as headaches, asthma-like symptoms, and/or disturbance of vision.

SustainabilityIpe is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. However, Ipe species grow in very low densities, with mature trees only occurring once per 300,000 to 1,000,000 square feet (3 to 10 hectares) of forest area. This necessitates the clearing of large sections of rainforest trees (most of which are of little commercial value). Though uncommon, certified sources of Ipe are occasionally available.

UsesFlooring, decking, siding, soffits, exterior lumber, veneer, tool handles, and other turned objects.

IPECharacteristics





Ipe Observation Deck & BoardwalkHouston Zoo Gorilla Exhibit

IPESpan Values

DECKINGNominal Size 40 psi 50 psi 60 psi 100 psi

1x4 32” 30” 28” 24”

1x6 38” 34” 32” 28”

5/4x6 42” 38” 36” 32”

2x6 62” 58” 56” 48”

*Includes dead load of 10 lbs/sf

STRUCTURAL

Timber Size Joist SpacingLive Load Rating

40 lbs/sf 50 lbs/sf 100 lbs/sf2x6 18” 11’ 4” 10’ 8” 8’ 8”

2x6 24” 9’ 11” 9’ 4” 7’ 7”

2x6 32” 9’ 0” 8’ 5” 6’ 11”

2x8 18” 15’ 5” 14’ 6” 11’ 10”

2x8 24” 13’ 6” 12’ 8” 10’ 4”

2x8 32” 12’ 3” 11’ 6” 9’ 5”

2x10 18” 19’ 7” 18’ 5” 15’ 0”

2x10 24” 17’ 1” 16’ 1” 13’ 2”

2x10 32” 15’ 6” 14’ 7” 11’ 11”

2x12 18” 23’ 8” 22’ 3” 18’ 2”

2x12 24” 20’ 8” 19’ 6” 15’ 11”

2x12 32” 18’ 9” 17’ 8” 14’ 5”

*Includes dead load of 10 lbs/sf





Hailing from South America, Garapa has a light color that’s light on the wallet too. It’s one of the only light-colored hardwoods with good exterior durability that’s commercially available. Garapa may not have the hardness of an Ipe or Cumaru, but what it lacks in density this product makes up for in consistency, beauty, and affordability. The most common application for Garapa is exterior decking and siding.





Common Name(s)Garapa, Garapa Gold

Scientific NameApuleia leiocarpa

DistributionSouth America

Tree Size65-100 ft. tall with a 3-5 ft. trunk diameter

Color/AppearanceGarapa has a golden to yellowish brown color, which darkens with age. The wood is fairly chatoyant, and appears to shift from dark to light coloring in different lighting angles.

Grain/TextureGrain is usually straight, but can also be interlocked. Uniform medium texture with a moderate amount of natural luster.

EndgrainDiffuse-porous; solitary and radial multiples; medium to large pores in no specific arrangement, moderately numerous; yellowish brown mineral deposits common; parenchyma lozenge, winged, and confluent; narrow rays, spacing normal.

Rot ResistanceRated as durable, though vulnerable to termites and other wood boring insect attacks.

WorkabilityGarapa is fairly easy to work, despite its density. It glues and finishes well, and is about average for dimensional stability.

OdorNo characteristic odor.

Allergies/ToxicityAlthough severe reactions are quite uncommon, Garapa has been reported to cause skin irritation.

SustainabilityThis wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with the exception of one species endemic to Ecuador, Carapa megistocarpa, which is listed as endangered due to a population reduction of over 50% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range.

Common UsesFlooring, decking, siding, soffits, docks, and boat building.

GARAPACharacteristics





Want a hardwood that lives up to the name exotic? Look no further than the bold and elegant striping of Tigerwood. Like its namesake, Tigerwood combines beauty and strength in one elegant hardwood. Commonly used for decking, this wood has superb stiffness, strength, hardness, and durability. However, density and other mechanical properties can vary widely depending on the growing site and source region. The name “Jobillo” is sometimes used to refer to higher grades of Goncalo Alves among wood turners.





Common Name(s)Tigerwood, Goncalo Alves, Jobillo

Scientific NameAstronium graveolens

DistributionFrom Mexico southward to Brazil


Color/AppearanceHeartwood is typically a medium reddish brown with irregularly spaced streaks of dark brown to black, giving it the look of tiger stripes. The color darkens with age if not properly sealed.

Grain/TextureGrain can be straight, but is usually wavy or interlocked. Fine, uniform texture with good natural luster.

EndgrainDiffuse-porous; medium pores in no specific arrangement; solitary and radial multiples of 2-3; tyloses and other heartwood deposits common; growth rings indistinct; rays visible without lens; parenchyma vasicentric.

Rot ResistanceTigerwood has excellent weathering properties, and is rated as very durable regarding decay resistance.

WorkabilityTigerwood (Goncalo Alves) is generally not too difficult to work, despite its high density. Figured pieces with irregular grain can pose a challenge in planing and machining operations. Goncalo Alves can also have a moderate blunting effect on cutters. The wood is very resistant to moisture absorption, which can make it difficult to glue. Goncalo Alves turns and finishes well.

OdorNo characteristic odor.

Allergies/ToxicityAlthough severe reactions are quite uncommon, Goncalo Alves has been reported as a sensitizer. Usually most common reactions simply include eye and skin irritation.

SustainabilityThis wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Common UsesDecking, siding, soffits, flooring, veneers, furniture, cabinetry, carving, turned objects, and other small wood specialty objects such as: pool cues, archery bows, knife handles, etc.

TIGERWOODCharacteristics





Often overlooked by those seeking the more popular exotic hardwoods - like Ipe and Tigerwood - Cumaru is an excellent alternative to pricier hardwood products. Harvested primarily in Brazil, most Cumaru has the reddish brown look of Ipe (the most popular Brazilian hardwood) with a similar density and durability. Cumaru can also come with streaks of yellowish brown, which is sometimes sold under the trade name “Brazilian Teak”. However, Cumaru is not related to true Teak (Tectona grandis).

Cumaru is also called by the name Tonka Bean, and the tree is commonly cultivated for its vanilla-cinnamon scented seed—the tonka bean—which contains a chemical compound called coumarin. Coumarin has been used in perfumes since 1820, and gives Cumaru its aroma. Cumaru lumber is extremely stiff, strong, and hard, lending itself well to a variety of applications. The heartwood also fluoresces under a black light, which can help distinguish it from Ipe.





Common Name(s)Cumaru, Brazilian Teak

Scientific NameDipteryx odorata

DistributionNorthern South America


Color/AppearanceHeartwood tends to be a medium to dark brown, sometimes with a reddish or purplish hue; some pieces may have streaks of yellowish or greenish brown.

Grain/TextureGrain is interlocked, with a medium texture and a waxy feel.

EndgrainDiffuse-porous; solitary and radial multiples; large pores in no specific arrangement, few; heartwood mineral/gum deposits present; parenchyma lozenge, aliform, confluent, and sometimes marginal; narrow rays, spacing fairly close.

Rot ResistanceCumaru has excellent durability and weathering properties. The wood is rated as very durable regarding decay resistance, though it may be susceptible to some insect attacks.

WorkabilityCumaru tends to be difficult to work on account of its density and interlocked grain. If the grain is not too interlocked, Cumaru can be surface-planed to a smooth finish. However, the wood contains silica and will have a moderate blunting effect on tool cutters. Due to its high oil content and density, Cumaru can present difficulties in gluing, and pre-boring is necessary when screwing or nailing the wood.

OdorCumaru has a faint, vanilla or cinnamon-like odor when being worked.

Allergies/ToxicityBesides the standard health risks associated with any type of wood dust, no further health reactions have been associated with Cumaru.

SustainabilityThis wood species is not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Common UsesDecking, flooring, cabinetry, furniture, heavy construction, docks, railroad ties, bearings, handles, and other turned objects.

CUMARUCharacteristics





Historic Shelter House Ipe Pergola RestorationFort Worth Botanical Garden

HARDWOODProperties

Name Ipe Garapa Tigerwood Cumaru

Grade Select Grade, all heart, no knots & sap.

Select Grade, all heart, no knots & sap.



Appearance

No splinters, surface stays smooth & resists damage, sealer required, patinas to silver gray with small surface checks.

No splinters, surface stays smooth & resists damage, sealer required, patinas to gray with small surface checks.

No splinters, surface stays smooth & resists damage, sealer required, colors darken with age with small surface checks.

No splinters, surface stays smooth & resists damage, sealer required, colors darken with age with small surface checks.

Decay Resistance Very Durable 25+ Years Moderately Durable 10-15 Years Very Durable 25 Years Very Durable 25 Years

Fire Rating Class (NFPA) A - B+ A - B A - B A - B

Resistance to Termites High Medium High High

Resistance to Marine Borers High Medium High High

Movement in Service Low Low Low Low

Average Weight 69 lbs/ft3 51 lbs/ft3 57 lbs/ft3 68 lbs/ft3

Modulus of Rupture 25,660 lbf/in2 18,530 lbf/in2 16,970 lbf/in2 25,390 lbf/in2

Modulus of Elasticity 3,200,000 lbf/in2 2,257,000 lbf/in2 4,401,000 lbf/in2 3,237,000 lbf/in2

Janka Hardness 3,680 lbf 1,650 lbf 2,250 lbf 3,540 lbf

Specific Gravity (Basic / 12% MC) .91 / 1.10 .65 / .82 .80 / .91 .86 / 1.09

Crushing Strength 13,600 lbf/in2 9,030 lbf/in2 10,770 lbf/in2 13,850 lbf/in2

Shrinkage

Radial: 5.9%Tangential: 7.2%Volumetric: 12.4%T/R Ratio: 1.2








Jobsite Storage/AcclimationExterior UseHardwoods for decking, pergolas, siding, soffits or other exterior applications need to be properly acclimated to the environment before installation. The reason is moisture content. Tropical hardwoods will, over time, come to equilibrium with the relative humidity of the surrounding air. Depending on the climate, the average moisture content can vary from 10% to 18%. Kiln-dried hardwoods are recommended for dry climates to reduce shrinkage, cupping, and checking while the lumber acclimates. TimberTown uses kiln-dried Garapa, Tigerwood, and Cumaru which will have a moisture content of 10%-12%; this adds stability during acclimation. Ipe typically comes air-dried because the density keeps the product from warping or cupping during acclimation, but it can also be kiln-dried for extremely dry climates or interior use. The acclimation period depends on the starting moisture content of the wood and the climate/temperature, but a good rule of thumb is 2-3 weeks in a dry space.

Interior UseWhen used in interior applications like walls and ceilings, all tropical hardwoods should be kiln-dried to 6%-8% moisture content. Air-conditioned spaces like homes and office buildings typically have less moisture in the air, so air-dried lumber will experience more shrinkage, cupping, and warping when installed inside, especially if it’s been milled. When using KD hardwoods at 6%-8% MC be sure to bring the product inside an air-conditioned space as soon as the material arrives to avoid too much moisture reentering the wood.

SafetyIpe and other hardwoods are more dense, therefore heavier, than most other woods. Do not try to lift similar quantities of hardwoods compared to traditional softwoods. Most tropical hardwood dust is carcinogenic and can cause breathing problems, so dust masks and protective eye wear are recommended when cutting or sanding hardwoods.

ToolsCarbide tipped saw blades with fewer teeth (16 teeth on 7-1/4” blades) stay cooler, reduce friction when cutting, and stay sharper longer. When using a miter box saw, we recommend 10” or 12” saws with roughly 24 teeth on 10” blades and 32 teeth on 12” blades.

Drilling hardwoods (especially Ipe) can be a challenge with improper drill bits. High speed steel tends to fatigue quickly, causing the bit to dull faster or break. Titanium Nitride coated drill bits initially perform well, but as the coating wears so does the performance. Cobalt Alloy drill bits are the most effective when drilling into Ipe. When drilling, periodically lift the bit out of the hole to remove shavings.

HARDWOODInstallation Tips

1 of 2





HARDWOODInstallation Tips

Tools (continued)Board benders such as the BoWrench are highly effective in straightening crooked boards. These types of tools are typically self locking and can speed up production since another person is not needed to hold the board in place.

End SealingEnd sealing with a wax based product is imperative to minimize end checking. Checking (tiny cracks) occurs in all hardwood species upon moisture loss. Almost every hardwood decking mill waxes lumber ends prior to shipping. For best results, wax fresh cut ends immediately after cutting. A small folded rag lightly dipped into the wax product and dabbed on the cut end will work the best. Avoid waxing the surface of the deck board as this will cause staining. Excess wax on the surface can be scraped off with a putty knife and then lightly sanded in the specific area. When ripping boards, wax is not required on the straight grain, only on cross cut ends. Note: oil-based UV inhibiting products are not effective in preventing moisture loss at the ends.

FasteningStainless Steel fasteners are imperative when fastening Ipe and other hardwoods. The high level of Tannic Acid in hardwoods will cause a dark brown to black stain when fastening with Zinc coated fasteners such as galvanized screws. Coatings, found on most other types of non-Stainless fasteners, can separate from their Carbon Steel body when driven into a dense material such as Ipe. Once the coating is removed, bare Carbon Steel is left in direct contact with the board and will also cause staining. As a general rule, hardwoods will outlast most any decking product currently on the market, so use fasteners that can maintain a similar life cycle.

Face ScrewingFace screwing is the most economical and efficient means of installing hardwood decking. Pre-drilling and counter sinking is necessary to avoid wood splitting and screw breakage.

Hidden FastenersHidden fasteners help to streamline labor versus face screwing and provide a “screwless” decking surface. Some hidden fastener systems provide automatic spacing.

FinishingApplying a finish to hardwoods is not required, but is recommended to minimize fading due to Ultraviolet light exposure. A penetrating, pigmented, UV inhibiting oil is recommended to maintain the wood’s rich natural color.

2 of 2





T&G Porch Flooring Edge-Grooved

2x6 Handrail Cap2x4 Handrail Cap

Tex-GapShiplap/Lap & Gap

Tongue & GrooveRainscreen

#122

#116

DECKING

RAILING

SIDING &SOFFITS

HARDWOODMilling Profiiles

Don’t see the profiile you need? No problem, we can special order any milling specification you need.





HARDWOODAvailable Dimensions

IPEair-dried

Dimensions Lengths1x4 (¾” x 3-½” actual) 4’ - 20’

1x6 (¾” x 5-½” actual) 4’ - 20’

1x8 (¾” x 7-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

5/4x4 (1” x 3-½” actual) 4’ - 20’

5/4x6 (1” x 5-½” actual) 4’ - 20’

5/4x8 (1” x 7-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

5/4x12 (1” x 11-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

2x2 (1-½” x 1-½” actual) 36”

2x4 (1-½” x 3-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

2x6 (1-½” x 5-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

2x8 (1-½” x 7-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

2x12 (1-½” x 11-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

4x4 (3-½” x 3-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

4x8 (3-½” x 7-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

4x12 (3-½” x 11-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

6x6 (5-½” x 5-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

*Kiln-dried Ipe available special order

GARAPAkiln-dried

Dimensions Lengths5/4x6 (1” x 5-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

2x4 (1-½” x 3-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

2x6 (1-½” x 5-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

4x4 (3-½” x 3-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

TIGERWOODkiln-dried


CUMARUkiln-dried


2x4 (1-½” x 3-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

2x6 (1-½” x 5-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

2x8 (1-½” x 7-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

4x4 (3-½” x 3-½” actual) 8’ - 20’

Don’t see the dimension you need? No problem, we can special order other dimensions and lengths.





Quality MaterialsFrom low maintenance composites like Trex to long-lasting hardwoods like Ipe, we’re pretty picky about our products. We don’t sell anything we wouldn’t be happy using on our own project.

Superb ServiceWe put people before profits so you always have a pleasant experience. That’s why we have an excellent delivery service plus a “Find A Craftsman” program to help you find a qualified builder for your project.

Friendly PeopleWhy do we come to work with a smile on our face? Because we love helping people like you! Once you contact us or walk into our showroom, our goal is for you to be happy with the end product.

TimberTownDECKING • HARDWOODS • SPECIALTY LUMBER

Hardwoods • Softwoods • Composites • Siding & Soffits • Deck Framing • Beams • Railing • Accessories • Kamado Joe

Get more great resources atTimberTown.com

http://TimberTownUSA.com

HARDWOODS · ABOUT THIS GUIDE If you’re familiar with HGTV or Dwell magazine you’ve probably...

Documents

Transcript of HARDWOODS · ABOUT THIS GUIDE If you’re familiar with HGTV or Dwell magazine you’ve probably...