Sapele Wood Guide 2026
Entandrophragma cylindricum
Typically described as figured African mahogany alternative
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 38 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Hardwood
- Origin: Ivory Coast;Nigeria
- Common uses include Doors, Windows, Furniture
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Fine
Workability: Machines well; interlocked grain can tear out when planing.
Fastening: Pre-drilling recommended for screws and nails.
Finishing: Finishes beautifully; ribbon figure on quartersawn stock.
Color change: Reddish brown darkens with age.
Insect resistance: Moderate
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 Sapele. 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 6–12 in.; wide boards common | Random lengths 8–16 ft | Request this size |
| 5/4 | 1-1/4" | 1-1/16" | Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards common | Random lengths 8–16 ft | Request this size |
| 6/4 | 1-1/2" | 1-5/16" | Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards common | Random lengths 8–16 ft | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards common | Random lengths 8–16 ft | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards common
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8–16 ft
- 5/4rough 1-1/4"
- Surfaced
- 1-1/16"
- Widths
- Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards common
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8–16 ft
- 6/4rough 1-1/2"
- Surfaced
- 1-5/16"
- Widths
- Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards common
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8–16 ft
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Random widths 6–12 in.; wide boards common
- Lengths
- Random lengths 8–16 ft
Availability notes: Widely available African hardwood; common mahogany substitute for doors and windows.
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: Reddish brown; ribbon figure on quartersawn
Grain: Interlocked; fine texture
Common Uses
- Doors
- Windows
- Furniture
- Cabinetry
- Boat building
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Sapele Mahogany
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 1,410 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Moderately Durable
- Sourced from Ivory Coast;Nigeria
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 Sapele is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Compare This Wood
Sapele vs Teak
Sapele is an excellent Teak alternative for boat trim that will be maintained with regular varnishing. It costs 70% less and looks stunning. However, for exterior trim in constant weather exposure, Teak's ability to survive without finish makes it irreplaceable. Use Sapele where varnish will be maintained, and Teak where it may not be.
View comparisonSapele vs Genuine Mahogany
Sapele is the practical choice for most projects, offering similar beauty at a fraction of the cost with better hardness. Genuine mahogany remains the prestige choice for high-end furniture and restoration work.
View comparisonExplore More on Lumberama
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