Iroko Wood Guide 2026
Milicia excelsa
Typically described as durable African teak alternative
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 43 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Ghana;Ivory Coast
- Common uses include Decking, Boat building, Exterior joinery
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium to coarse with an open, irregular grain.
Workability: Generally good, but the silica content can dull cutting edges.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Finishes well but natural oils can occasionally interfere with adhesion.
Color change: Darkens significantly to a rich brown upon exposure to light.
Insect resistance: Very high resistance to rot and termites.
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 Iroko. 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) | Available in specific widths such as 4, 6, and 8 inches for decking. | Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Available in specific widths such as 4, 6, and 8 inches for decking. | Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Available in specific widths such as 4, 6, and 8 inches for decking. | Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Available in specific widths such as 4, 6, and 8 inches for decking. | Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Available in specific widths such as 4, 6, and 8 inches for decking.
- Lengths
- Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet.
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Available in specific widths such as 4, 6, and 8 inches for decking.
- Lengths
- Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet.
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Available in specific widths such as 4, 6, and 8 inches for decking.
- Lengths
- Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Available in specific widths such as 4, 6, and 8 inches for decking.
- Lengths
- Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet.
Decking & exterior profiles
Standard decking boards with eased edges or hidden fastener grooves.
Availability notes: Available through specialized importers and decking suppliers.
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: Yellow to golden brown; darkens
Grain: Straight to interlocked; coarse texture
Common Uses
- Decking
- Boat building
- Exterior joinery
- Furniture
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Kambala;African Teak
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,260 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Durable
- Sourced from Ghana;Ivory Coast
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 Iroko is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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