Cumaru, also called Brazilian Teak or Golden Teak, is a very strong and beautiful hardwood. It comes from the Amazon rainforest and is known for being hard, having a rich color, and being resistant to decay. These qualities make it a popular choice for decking, flooring, and outdoor building projects.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the features, uses, and benefits of cumaru wood, and compare it to other hardwoods like ipe and mahogany.
What is Cumaru Wood ?
Cumaru is a dense tropical hardwood harvested from South America, primarily Brazil, Peru, and Venezuela. It belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae) and is known for its:
Key Characteristics:
✔ Extreme Hardness – Janka hardness of 3,330 lbf, making it 3x harder than oak and highly resistant to wear.
✔ Natural Durability – Class 1 rot resistance (outlasts most woods in outdoor conditions).
✔ Rich Color – Ranges from golden brown to reddish-brown, darkening over time to a deep amber hue.
✔ Tight Grain – Fine, straight grain with occasional wavy patterns, giving it a luxurious appearance.
✔ Density & Stability – Weighs 68 lbs/ft³, making it denser than water and highly resistant to warping.
✔ Insect & Moisture Resistance – Naturally repels termites, rot, and fungal decay.
Common Uses of Cumaru Wood
Outdoor Decking & Flooring
- Superior to composite decking – More durable and eco-friendly.
- Outlasts pressure-treated pine – Can endure 25+ years outdoors with minimal maintenance.
Heavy-Duty Construction
- Bridge building (used in marine environments due to water resistance).
- Dock pilings & boardwalks (resists saltwater corrosion).
Furniture & Cabinetry
- High-end outdoor furniture (resistant to UV rays and weathering).
- Luxury flooring (adds warmth and elegance to interiors).
Specialty Woodworking
- Tool handles (durable under heavy impact).
- Turning & carving (holds fine details well).
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Disadvantages of Cumaru Wood: Key Drawbacks to Consider
While cumaru wood (Brazilian Teak) is prized for its durability and beauty, it does come with some challenges. Before choosing it for your project, consider these key disadvantages:
1. Difficult to Work With
✔ Extreme Hardness (Janka 3,330 lbf) – Requires carbide-tipped tools for cutting and drilling.
✔ Pre-Drilling Necessary – Nails and screws can split the wood if not pre-drilled.
✔ Blunts Blades Quickly – Increases tool maintenance costs.
2. Expensive Compared to Common Hardwoods
✔ Higher Cost Than Oak or Mahogany – Due to import costs and scarcity.
✔ Labor Costs Add Up – Harder to install, increasing project expenses.
3. Color Variation & Fading
✔ Uneven Tones – Some boards may appear golden brown, while others are reddish-brown.
✔ Sun Exposure Darkens It – Over time, UV rays turn it silvery-gray unless sealed.
4. Heavy & Dense (68 lbs/ft³)
✔ Difficult to Transport & Handle – Much heavier than oak or pine.
✔ Not Ideal for DIYers – Professional installation is often recommended.
5. Limited Availability & Sustainability Concerns
✔ Sourcing Challenges – Mostly imported from South America, leading to supply issues.
✔ Deforestation Risks – Not endangered, but illegal logging in the Amazon is a concern. Always check for FSC certification.
6. Requires Regular Maintenance Outdoors
✔ Without Sealing, It Turns Gray – Needs annual oiling to maintain color.
✔ Stains Can Be Tricky – Due to natural oils, some finishes may not adhere well.
Should You Still Use Cumaru Wood?
Despite these drawbacks, cumaru remains a top choice for:
✅ Decking & outdoor flooring (lasts 25+ years)
✅ High-traffic areas (resists scratches and dents)
✅ Marine applications (water and rot-resistant)
Cumaru vs. Other Hardwoods: How Does It Compare?
| Feature | Cumaru | Ipe | Mahogany | Oak |
| Janka Hardness | 3,330 lbf | 3,680 lbf | 900 lbf | 1,360 lbf |
| Rot Resistance | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Moderate |
| Color | Golden to reddish-brown | Olive-brown | Reddish-brown | Light tan |
Why Choose Cumaru Over Ipe?
- More affordable than ipe but nearly as strong.
- Easier to work with (ipe is harder to cut and fasten).
- Warmer color tones compared to ipe’s darker appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Cumaru wood good for decking?
Yes, Cumaru is an excellent decking material due to its extreme hardness, durability, and moisture resistance.
2. Does Cumaru wood require a finish?
It doesn’t need a finish for protection, but oiling helps maintain its rich color.
3. Can Cumaru be used indoors?
Absolutely. It makes beautiful, high-traffic flooring and elegant furniture.
4. Is Cumaru better than Ipe?
While both are great, Cumaru is more affordable and slightly easier to work with. Ipe may have a longer lifespan.
5. How long does Cumaru last outside?
With proper care, it can last 30-50 years or more outdoors.
6. Is Cumaru wood slippery when wet?
It offers natural slip resistance, especially when used with a grooved surface finish.
Conclusion: Is Cumaru Wood Right for You?
Cumaru wood combines beauty, strength, and great value. It’s an excellent option for anyone wanting a long-lasting, eco-friendly hardwood for indoor or outdoor projects.
When sourced responsibly and cared for properly, Cumaru is a great alternative to more expensive tropical hardwoods like Ipe and Teak.