Okoume Wood Guide 2026
Aucoumea klaineana
Typically described as lightweight African plywood wood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 62 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Gabon
- Common uses include Marine plywood, Boat building, Light interiors
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Uniform with a slightly coarse feel.
Workability: Easy to machine though silica content can dull cutters.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Requires high-quality sealers for exterior marine use.
Color change: Slight darkening to a deeper reddish hue.
Insect resistance: Poor resistance to decay and marine borers.
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 Okoume. 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) | Usually available in wide veneer or plywood panels. | Commonly sold in standard 8 to 10 foot sheets. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Usually available in wide veneer or plywood panels. | Commonly sold in standard 8 to 10 foot sheets. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Usually available in wide veneer or plywood panels.
- Lengths
- Commonly sold in standard 8 to 10 foot sheets.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Usually available in wide veneer or plywood panels.
- Lengths
- Commonly sold in standard 8 to 10 foot sheets.
Availability notes: Most commonly available as marine-grade plywood.
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: Pinkish brown
Grain: Straight to wavy; fine texture
Common Uses
- Marine plywood
- Boat building
- Light interiors
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Gaboon;Okoume Mahogany
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 380 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Non-Durable
- Sourced from Gabon
- 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 Okoume is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
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