Makore Wood Guide 2026
Tieghemella heckelii
Typically described as fine-grained African hardwood resembling mahogany
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 38 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Ghana;Ivory Coast
- Common uses include Veneer, Furniture, Cabinetry
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Very fine and even.
Workability: Fairly easy to work but high silica content requires carbide tools.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: High quality finish attainable after surface preparation.
Color change: Turns to a deeper red-brown color upon exposure.
Insect resistance: Highly resistant to decay and insects.
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 Makore. 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) | Random widths from 6 to 14 inches. | Random lengths from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths from 6 to 14 inches. | Random lengths from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
| 12/4 | 3" | 2-3/4" | Random widths from 6 to 14 inches. | Random lengths from 8 to 16 feet. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths from 6 to 14 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 8 to 16 feet.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths from 6 to 14 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 8 to 16 feet.
- 12/4rough 3"
- Surfaced
- 2-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths from 6 to 14 inches.
- Lengths
- Random lengths from 8 to 16 feet.
Decking & exterior profiles
Occasionally available as custom millwork.
Availability notes: Available through importers and high-end cabinet lumber 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: Pink to reddish brown
Grain: Straight to interlocked; fine texture
Common Uses
- Veneer
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Paneling
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Doumba;Cherry Mahogany
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,100 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Very 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 Makore is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Explore More on Lumberama
Popular Applications
Comparisons
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 articleFurnace Guide: Types, Cost & Maintenance
Keep your home warm and efficient.
Read article