How to Install Garapa Decking
Get a step-by-step installation guide tailored to your Garapa project.
What type of project is this?
Application Type
Residential
Single-family home or personal use
Commercial
Business or public use
Complete Garapa Decking Installation Guide
Garapa (Apuleia leiocarpa), often called "Brazilian Ash," is a premium South American hardwood prized for its beautiful golden-yellow color, exceptional dimensional stability, and natural durability. With a Janka hardness of 1,650 lbf, Garapa offers an excellent balance of hardness and workability — easier to install than Ipe while still delivering outstanding longevity of 30-40+ years.
Janka Hardness
1,650 lbf
Density
52 lbs/ft³
Expected Lifespan
30-40+ years
Origin
Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay
Step 1: Acclimation & Storage
Stack Garapa boards flat with 1x stickers every 16-24" for 5-10 days. Cover with a breathable tarp and keep all sides open. Elevate at least 6" off the ground. Garapa is exceptionally stable — more so than Ipe — so acclimation is straightforward.
Step 2: Framing & Substructure
Standard 16" O.C. joist spacing is sufficient for residential Garapa decking. Apply joist tape to all joist tops. Ensure 18" clearance underneath for ventilation. Garapa is lighter than Ipe (52 lbs/ft³ vs 69), so standard deck framing typically works well.
Step 3: Board Layout & Spacing
Garapa has minimal color variation — most boards are a uniform golden-yellow. Side gaps of 1/8" to 3/16" and end gaps of 1/4" are sufficient thanks to Garapa's superior dimensional stability. This species maintains consistent gaps year-round better than most tropical hardwoods.
Step 4: Pre-Drilling & Fastening
Pre-drill all fastener holes — Garapa is dense enough to split without pre-drilling. Use stainless steel fasteners only. Garapa is more forgiving than ultra-hard species like Ipe, making it easier to install with hidden clip systems, face screws, or plugs.
Step 5: Cutting & End-Sealing
Use a 40-60 tooth carbide blade. Garapa cuts more easily than Ipe or Cumaru, with less blade wear. Seal all cut ends promptly with wax-based end grain sealer. Two coats recommended, extending 1" onto the board face.
Step 6: Finishing
Garapa's uniform golden color takes oil finishes beautifully with no blotchiness. Apply penetrating hardwood oil 2-4 weeks after installation, use a UV sealer (test compatibility first), or let it weather to an attractive silver-gray. Never use film-forming finishes.
Step 7: Ongoing Maintenance
Sweep weekly and clean 2-3 times per year. Garapa is one of the most stable and low-maintenance tropical hardwoods. Expect 30-40+ years of service with proper installation and minimal ongoing care.
Required Tools
- Miter saw with carbide blade (40-60 teeth)
- Drill with carbide bits
- Impact driver
- Level
- Rubber mallet
Materials Needed
- Garapa decking boards
- Stainless steel fasteners
- Joist tape
- End grain sealer