Iroko Wood

Iroko, also known as African Teak, is a durable and stable hardwood native to tropical regions of Africa. The heartwood of Iroko can range in color from golden brown to brown, and it tends to darken with age. The sapwood is pale yellow and can be easily distinguished from the heartwood.

The tree grows to an average of 130 feet (50 meters) tall, with a trunk diameter of 3-5 feet (1-1.5 meters). The wood has a medium to coarse texture, with open pores and an interlocked grain. It has a Janka hardness of 1,260 lbf (5,610 N) and an average dried weight of 41.2 lbs/ft³ (660 kg/m³), which is even higher than popular hardwoods like oak and maple.

Iroko is very durable and is resistant to both rot and insect attack. It’s often used as a substitute for genuine teak (Tectona grandis). Despite its interlocked grain, which may cause some tearout during surfacing operations, it’s generally easy to work with and finishes well.

Common uses of Iroko wood include veneer, flooring, furniture, cabinetry, boatbuilding, and other small specialty wood items. It’s particularly popular for outdoor decking due to its natural resistance to decay and moisture. However, it’s worth noting that Iroko can cause eye, skin, and respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.

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