Garapa (pronounced "gah-RAH-pah"), is a stunning golden-yellow tropical hardwood that brings warmth and brightness to any exterior project. While lighter in density than Ipe or Cumaru, Garapa still significantly outperforms domestic species and composites — with a Janka hardness of 1,620 lbf and natural Class 1 durability that resists rot and insects without chemical treatment.
Color & Appearance
Garapa is prized for its distinctive golden-yellow to honey-blonde heartwood — a warm, luminous tone that's unlike any other decking species on the market. The grain is generally straight with a fine, uniform texture that mills to a smooth finish. Fresh Garapa is strikingly bright; it will mellow slightly over time or weather to silver-gray if left unfinished. An annual application of UV oil keeps the golden color vibrant for years.
Available Profiles
- 1x6 Pre-Grooved Decking: Our standard residential Garapa profile. Edge-grooved for hidden clip fastening. 5.5-inch exposed face. Standard lengths 8'–16'.
- 1x6 S4S (Square Edge): Traditional face-screw decking. 5.5-inch exposed face. Required for stair treads and perimeter boards.
- 1x6 Tongue & Groove: For porch ceilings, covered patios, and interior accent walls. 5.0-inch exposed face. For covered use only.
- 1x4 Decking: The classic Northeastern architectural profile — a refined, linear aesthetic favored in modern custom home building. Full-performance decking board. 3.5-inch exposed face.
- 1x4 Tongue & Groove: Covered porch flooring. 3.0-inch exposed face.
- 5/4x6 Pre-Grooved: Heavy-duty commercial and extreme-load profile; many builders and homeowners also choose it for residential decks. Edge-grooved for hidden clip fastening. 5.5-inch exposed face. Standard lengths 8'–16'.
- 5/4x6 S4S (Square Edge): Heavy-duty face-screw profile. 5.5-inch exposed face.
Performance Specifications
- Janka Hardness: 1,620 lbf
- Density: ~52 lbs/cu. ft.
- Durability Class: Class 1 — naturally rot- and insect-resistant
- Fire Rating: Class A/B depending on localized testing methodology and specific board density. Verify with your local building authority for WUI zone compliance.
- Expected Lifespan: 25–40 years
- Grading: Premium Grade
Stainless Steel Required
Like all tropical hardwoods, Garapa contains natural tannins and extractives that will react with standard carbon steel fasteners, causing black staining around every screw head. Use only 305 or 316 stainless steel screws, clips, and hardware. This applies to hidden clips, face screws, joist hangers, and any metal in contact with the wood.
Fastening Ecosystem
- Ipe Clip Hidden Fasteners: 175-count Complete Kit covers exactly 100 sq. ft. Our standard kits feature the 5/32-inch gap brown clip, designed to disappear into the natural shadow lines of tropical hardwoods.
- Smart-Bit Pre-Drill: #7 (flush) or #8 (countersunk). 1 per 100 sq. ft. (1 per box of screws). Tropical hardwood density dulls carbide tips rapidly.
- Pro Plug System: 5/16-inch Pro Plug tool with color-matched Garapa plugs available. 1 tool per 100 sq. ft.
- Face Screws: Our most common choice is #7 x 2-1/4" trim-head stainless steel (350-count box per 100 sq. ft.). Other options are available if you prefer.
- Hardwood Plugs: 100-piece box of 5/16" plugs, matched to linear footage of S4S perimeter and stair treads.
- End Seal: Apply wax-based end sealer to all cut ends to prevent checking
Why Choose Garapa?
Garapa fills an important niche: it's a genuine tropical hardwood with Class 1 durability, but at a price point significantly below Ipe and Cumaru. For homeowners who love the golden-toned look and don't need the extreme hardness of Ipe, Garapa delivers exceptional value. It's also lighter in weight, making it easier to handle and install — a practical advantage on elevated deck projects where every board has to be carried up stairs or scaffolding.
Common Applications
- Residential decking & porches
- Porch ceilings & soffits
- Pool surrounds & outdoor kitchens
- Exterior accent cladding
- Outdoor furniture & benches
