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Cumaru Wood
Dipteryx odorata · Brazil, Peru, Venezuela
About Cumaru
Cumaru, often marketed as "Brazilian Teak," is one of the best-value exotic hardwoods available. With a Janka hardness of 3,330 lbf — nearly as hard as Ipe — Cumaru delivers outstanding durability and natural decay resistance at a significantly lower price point. Its warm golden-brown to reddish-brown color and pleasant vanilla-like aroma (when freshly cut) make it a beautiful and practical choice for decking, flooring, and outdoor construction. Cumaru's natural oils provide excellent weather resistance without chemical treatment, and it carries a Class A fire rating similar to Ipe.
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Shop Cumaru by Application
Key Characteristics
- Exceptional hardness (3,330 lbf Janka) — nearly as hard as Ipe
- Class A fire rating
- Natural oils resist rot, decay, and insects
- Pleasant vanilla-like aroma when cut
- Naturally slip-resistant texture
- Excellent dimensional stability
- No chemical treatment needed
- Weathers to attractive silver-gray
Common Applications
- Residential and commercial decking
- Hardwood flooring
- Outdoor structures and pergolas
- Siding and cladding
- Heavy construction
- Marine and dock applications
- Boardwalks
- Pool decks
Maintenance & Care
Apply a penetrating hardwood oil once per year to maintain the warm golden-brown color. If left untreated, Cumaru will weather to an attractive silver-gray over time. Clean annually with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or high-pressure washing above 1,200 PSI.
Advantages
Considerations
Installation Considerations
- Pre-drill all fastener holes — Cumaru is nearly as hard as Ipe
- Use carbide-tipped blades and bits for cutting and drilling
- Allow 1/8" gap between boards for expansion and drainage
- Acclimate boards on-site for 5-7 days before installation
- Natural oils may affect some finish adhesion — test first
- Joist spacing: 16" O.C. for 1x6, 24" O.C. for 5/4x6
Fasteners & Tools Required
- Stainless steel screws (305 or 316 grade) required
- Carbide-tipped drill bits for pre-drilling
- Hidden fastener systems compatible with hardwood
- Countersink bits for clean screw placement
Available Sizes & Profiles
Custom sizes and lengths available. Request a custom quote.
Compare Cumaru vs Other Species
Compare Similar Species
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