Margin BuilderS

SPECIES like angelim pedra are among the options for deck builders and suppliers looking for substitutes for less available hardwoods. (Photos by Nova USA Wood Products)

Brazilian import helps fill void for hardwood decking

Supply and labor shortages coupled with soaring lumber prices are now everyday staples of the current building environment.

Although many of these issues have become more manageable, problems still exist for a strong remodeling market that is expected to achieve “high-single digit gains” per a new report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. This includes the continued surge in decking, which was bolstered even further in recent years by homeowners looking for new sources of comfort and solace while stranded at home during the pandemic.

As a result, the calming effects of real wood products have become even more popular for individuals and families looking to make the spaces around them feel warmer, cozier and safer. This is just another reason why beautiful tropical hardwoods like ipé are now among the “preferred” choices of decking for people who simply just love the lustrous look and feel of exotic woods.

The problem is that the market for these products has changed greatly since the beginning of 2020. Already in short supply, ipé prices rose dramatically along with international concerns over harvesting and sustainability.

Consequently, deck builders nationwide are now scrambling to find certified alternatives that deliver the same durable, aesthetically beautiful and long-term results. Native to Brazil, angelim pedra is one such economical option produced within the Amazon, the world’s most heterogeneous tropical forest. In fact, the forest management techniques used to harvest angelim pedra are based on selective, sustainable logging practices specifically designed to ensure the integrity and beauty of the standing forest, while generating ongoing income for the local people.

Also known as para angelim, rocky deck, and mani, angelim pedra is named for the unique mineral spots found in the wood. The word “pedra” actually translates to “rock” in Portuguese and in addition to these dense spots, which diminish over time, its soft brown color and light orange and tan highlights make it ideal for a wide range of outdoor furniture and woodworking projects. If left untreated, it will age into an elegant silver-gray patina that seamlessly blends into most exterior motifs.

Dense and durable, angelim pedra is also extremely resistant to fungi and wood boring insects. The result is a highly workable tropical wood that will last for decades with minimal shrinkage if properly treated and maintained.

Another advantage is that the hardwood readily absorbs stains and oils despite its high density. Through the use of highly-penetrative oil finishes containing strong UV protection, users enamored with the exotic hardwood’s tan-brown coloring will be able to retain the decking’s luxurious, rich finish throughout the deck’s entire lifespan.

So, possibilities do exist for builders and suppliers willing to explore new options in a market filled with demand but lacking the access to previously-available tropical hardwoods. That’s the value of species like angelim pedra. Cost-effective, durable and stable, it’s just one of many viable choices currently available to those looking to fulfill the ongoing needs of customers without delays and at an affordable price.

– Steve Getsiv is the president and CEO of Nova USA Wood Products, Forest Grove, Or. (www.novausawood.com).