Padauk (2026)
Pterocarpus soyauxii • Central & West Africa
Exotic Hardwood
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Padauk is known for its vibrant orange to crimson-red color.
Key Takeaways
- Padauk has a Janka hardness of 1,970 lbf and density of 48 lbs/ft³.
- Common uses include Decorative turnings, Furniture accents, Musical instruments.
- Color: Vivid orange-red, darkens to reddish-brown.
- Low to moderate.
Janka Hardness
1,970 lbf
Density
48 lbs/ft³
Moisture
10-12%
Fire Rating
Class B
Durability
Class A - 15-20 years
Price Range
$$
Color Characteristics
Vivid orange-red, darkens to reddish-brown
Key Characteristics
- •Vibrant color
- •Moderate hardness
- •Good stability
- •Interlocked grain
- •Medium texture
- •Natural decay resistance
- •High luster
- •Easy to work
Common Applications
- •Decorative turnings
- •Furniture accents
- •Musical instruments
- •Flooring
- •Inlays
- •Exterior joinery
- •Carving
- •Handles
Maintenance Requirements
Low to moderate.
Advantages
- Stunning color
- Good hardness
- Easy to work
- Natural decay resistance
- Good stability
- Wide availability
- Affordable exotic
- Takes finishes well
Considerations
- Color darkens
- Can stain
- Interlocked grain tears
- UV changes color
- Dust allergies
- Oils affect gluing
- Not as hard
- Color variation
Frequently Asked Questions
Decorative turnings, Furniture accents, Musical instruments, Flooring, Inlays, Exterior joinery, Carving, Handles.
Padauk has a Janka hardness rating of 1,970 lbf, making it a softer wood suitable for Decorative turnings, Furniture accents, Musical instruments.
Padauk wood is Vivid orange-red, darkens to reddish-brown. Vibrant color
Low to moderate.
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