Tropical Hardwoods
We don’t sell “Internet Grade” lumber. We offer Premium Clear All Heart tropical hardwoods sourced directly from the mills in South America. Whether you need the legendary durability of Ipe or the golden warmth of Garapa, we supply the highest grade material available in the mountains.
The Timberline Standard: “Clear All Heart”
In the lumber industry, grades matter. Many online retailers sell “Standard Grade” which allows for sapwood (the white streaks on the edge of the board). Sapwood will rot. Even in tropical hardwoods.
We specify Premium Clear All Heart. This means you get the dense, rot-resistant heartwood with no sapwood edges. It costs a little more to buy right, but it ensures your project actually lasts the 40+ years it is supposed to.
Ipe (Brazilian Walnut)
The Gold Standard. Ipe is the benchmark for all other exterior woods. It is incredibly dense, fire-resistant, and naturally resistant to rot, insects, and decay without any chemical treatments.
- Color: Rich deep brown to walnut.
- Stability: The most stable tropical hardwood (minimal movement).
- Best For: Decking, Siding, Docks, and Structural Posts.
- Lifespan: 40–75 years.
Cumaru (Brazilian Teak)
The Heavyweight Contender. Cumaru offers density and hardness similar to Ipe but with a distinct color palette and a lower price point. It requires careful installation due to its density but offers incredible longevity.
- Color: Reddish-brown to purple hues (distinct teak look).
- Stability: Very hard, but moves slightly more than Ipe (acclimation is key).
- Best For: Decking and Heavy Timbers.
Garapa (Brazilian Ash)
The Golden Value. If you want the durability of a tropical hardwood but prefer a lighter aesthetic (or a lighter price tag), Garapa is the answer. It is finer-grained and easier to work with than Ipe.
- Color: Golden honey to warm yellow.
- Stability: Excellent durability, lighter weight than Ipe.
- Best For: Decking, Siding, and ceilings where a lighter tone is desired.
Specialty & Exotic Sourcing
Because we have a direct line to the importers, we can source niche tropical species for specific architectural needs. If your plans call for it, we can get it.
We can source:
- Massaranduba: (Brazilian Redwood) Deep plum/red, extremely hard.
- Tigerwood: Distinctive orange with black striping.
- Purpleheart: Vibrant purple (fresh cut) that deepens to brown.
- Yellow Balau: A solid entry-level tropical hardwood.