If you’re in search of wood that can transform your flooring into the center of attention in your room, then tigerwood is the one for you. It is also called African walnut and goncalo alves. Brazilian Koa, tigerwood is equipped with striking colors that stand it apart from the plainer hardwoods.
The strength and resistance to water of this wood increase its appeal as flooring materials. Because of environmental concerns and installation issues, however you’ll have to conduct some preparation if you intend to use the wood to be used in your home.
Pros include: Outstanding Coloring and Outstanding Durability
Striking Color Patterns
Tigerwood gets its name from its vivid tiger-like stripes that range from golden and light orange Tan to a deep russet brown. They vary in the thickness of wide strokes to delicate lines. There are no knots to hinder the color flow. The wood used in flooring is as beautiful.
The plain color of maple, oak, and birch softly recedes to provide an unobtrusive background to your furnishings and décor Tigerwood transforms your floor into an element of interest for it. It’s the perfect choice for those who prefer basic furniture, but desire to give your room an individual look.
In contrast to other woods, tigerwood’s grade is predominantly based on its coloring. It’s typically offered in clear grade as well as common grade. Clear grade has black and brown stripes on an overall deep rosy-orange-like base. Common grade displays less variation in color and may include small imperfections like the planer groove or ripples.
Extraordinary Hardness and Long-term Durability
With an of 1850 Janka scale, the tigerwood is more durable than many flooring hardwoods including pecan and maple hickory. Its durable surface is resistant to scratches and dings, which means it will last longer.
It’s an excellent option for families with young pets or children. However it’s a bit less brittle and less pliable than cumaru wood or ipe and is more comfortable on your feet.
Resistance to Water Damage
The high density of Tigerwood and the abundant natural oils provide it a distinct advantage in water resistance. When a finish is put on it is not likely to crack, warp or rot , even in humid conditions.
The most well-known is the weather-resistant teakwood. it is often used to deck and furniture for outdoor use. While hardwood flooring isn’t generally suggested in bathrooms, when are looking to buy flooring for your bathroom that is made of hardwood, tigerwood is among the top options.
Affordability
As an exotic hardwood it’s not the most affordable material you could use on your flooring, however it’s less expensive than teak, ipe and ebony. In general, you’ll find the cost comparable to mahogany or cumaru. It’s a good option for those who are budget-conscious. you’re searching for a robust, water-resistant wood that has a distinct colors.
Easy Maintenance
To keep your floor of tigerwood fresh, it’s just a matter of moist mop it at least once a week by mixing 1 cup of white vinegar and one quarter of a quart of water. A solution comprising 1/4 cup of liquid Castile soap along with 2 gallon of water can be used. These mild cleaners can break down dirt without damaging the flooring’s finish or cause discoloration.
If you must take care of your floors frequently, you can employ a mop for dust. Use gentle cleaners designed for exotic hardwoods . Also, never leave standing water on your floor.
Cons Pros: Color Changes, the difficulty of installation.
Darkening Colors
The deep color variations that the tigerwood is famous because they don’t always remain as prominent in the initial stages of when the flooring is newly laid. The lighter hues of sapwood tend to darken as time passes into a dark red or brown, which means they stand out less against the darker heartwood. It’s a common issue for the majority of hardwoods with rich hues however it can cause drama in the tigerwood flooring.
It is true that noticeable color changes typically take minimum 10 years and you can slow down the procedure by utilising UV-blocking windows shades or films to reduce the amount of light that gets to the flooring.
Environmental Concerns
Although the tigerwood plant itself isn’t endangered however, the forests where it is grown are frequently threatened because of excessive logging. Because of the increased demand for this wood, most people in the African as well as South American countries where it grows have set export limits to avoid over-harvesting , which can cause environmental harm.
Brazil which is where the majority of the tigerwood that is used in the US originates has very tight control.
It is also a plus that it is a species that is rapidly growing and is a eco-friendly alternative to slow-growing Ipe wood. If you decide to install the use of tigerwood make sure you select wood with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, which means that the wood was harvested sustainably.
Not a good choice for DIY Projects
The hardness of Tigerwood makes it difficult to install without the use of professional grade tools. The cutting process requires carbon-tipped blades. If you want to use nails or screws it is necessary to drill pre-drilled holes using drilling with a carbide bit. The wood can be glue however it is not an easy task due for the nature-based oils which prevent that glue’s ability to set. Sanding can be a difficult task since tigerwood dust may be irritating to eyes and skin.
In the same way that it blocks the penetration of water, tigerwood can withstand staining and preservatives. Only low viscosity materials are able to do the work.
For flooring that is a show-stopper there’s nothing better than Tigerwood. Its striking, vibrant color will bring warmth to your living room or bedroom, and add a bit of more flair to a bar in the game room or at home. The wood’s toughness means that you don’t need to worry about being scratched by your pets or children.
It’s an issue for DIY-ers to work with, but it’s important to plan for professional installation when you plan your floor.
