Garapa Wood Guide 2026
Apuleia leiocarpa
Typically described as golden durable decking wood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 52 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Brazil
- Common uses include Decking, Cladding, Outdoor furniture
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Fine
Workability: Moderately hard; machines cleanly. Pre-drill for screws.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Takes oil finishes well; lighter color highlights UV graying if unfinished.
Color change: Golden yellow darkens to honey-brown, then silver-gray if unfinished.
Insect resistance: Good resistance
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Garapa. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Decking 4 in. and 6 in. | Decking 8–20 ft even lengths | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Decking 4 in. and 6 in. | Decking 8–20 ft even lengths | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Decking 4 in. and 6 in.
- Lengths
- Decking 8–20 ft even lengths
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Decking 4 in. and 6 in.
- Lengths
- Decking 8–20 ft even lengths
Decking & exterior profiles
1x4, 1x6, 5/4x4, 5/4x6; 2x4, 4x4
Availability notes: Popular budget tropical decking; stocked by many distributors.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Golden yellow to brown
Grain: Straight to interlocked; fine texture
Common Uses
- Decking
- Cladding
- Outdoor furniture
- Railings
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Grapia;Brazilian Ash
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,210 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Durable
- Sourced from Brazil
- Excellent density for wear resistance
Considerations
- Pre-drilling recommended for fasteners
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
- Availability may vary
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Garapa is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Compare This Wood
Ipe vs Garapa
Ipe is objectively superior in every performance metric, but Garapa offers 80% of the exotic appeal at 60% of the price. Garapa is the smart choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want exotic hardwood.
View comparisonGarapa vs Ipe
Garapa offers 80% of Ipe's performance at 60% of the cost. Ipe remains king for longevity.
View comparisonExplore More on Lumberama
Popular Applications
Calculators & Tools
Related Blog Posts
Heat Pump Guide: Types, Cost & How They Work
Heat and cool your home efficiently with one system.
Read articleAir Conditioning Guide: Types, Cost & Efficiency
Stay cool and save money on cooling.
Read articleWater Heater Guide: Types, Cost & Replacement
Choose the best water heater for your home.
Read article