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Whenever I have to choose a wood for a perfect decking, it is not easy for me because not all wood is suitable for the deck, because the wood deck has to withstand moisture, sun heat, and changing weather continuously. In such a situation, choosing the wrong wood can ruin your deck in a few months or years.
Many hardwoods, such as Ipe, Cumaru, cedar, redwood, and fir, are famous for making decks. But in this blog, you will know whether choosing Cumaru wood for decking is good or bad.
What is Cumaru Wood?
Cumaru wood is dense, durable, and rot-resistant. It is a perfect choice for outdoor and indoor applications. Wood is dark, reddish-brown to chocolate brown and changes to medium to dark brown over time. Yellow or greenish-brown streaks may also be present on some pieces.
Cumaru is a hardwood species that comes from a deciduous tree. The Cumaru tree is native to Northern South America and belongs to the Dipteryx Odorata genus.
Is Cumaru Wood Good For Decking?
Definitely yes, Cumaru wood is an excellent choice for building a durable and stable deck as it has excellent density, strength, durability, and hardness, making the deck capable of withstanding daily wear and tear or weather changes.
But wait, is Cumaru decking a good option for you? What is the weather like all year round in the place where you want to build the deck? Is Cumaru decking good for extreme weather locations where it rains most of the time? So the answer is:
Cumaru wood is naturally resistant to moisture and decay and has good resistance to termites and borers. Cumaru decking performs well even in bad weather.
Pros of Cumaru Wood Decking
Durability
Cumaru wood is durable and naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insects. It can withstand harsh weather conditions. Many woodworkers claim that Cumaru decking has a 50+ year lifespan without preservatives.
Hardness
Cumaru is one of the hardest woods available, which means it is highly resistant to wear and tear. It can handle heavy foot traffic and outdoor furniture without showing significant signs of damage.
Stability
Wood is dimensionally stable, so it is less prone to shrink and warp when the wood is exposed to moisture and environmental changes. Dimensional stability is a very important property of a deck.
Appearance
Cumaru wood has an attractive appearance with a dark reddish-brown to chocolate-brown color and a distinctive grain pattern. Making it extremely desirable for decking.
Longevity
To ensure a long life of deck, Cumaru requires low maintenance compared to many other hardwood decking. Regular sealing or oiling can help extend its life even further.
Sustainability
Depending on the source and harvesting practices, Cumaru wood is considered a sustainable choice for decking. Look for certifications like FSC to ensure responsible sourcing.
Cons of Cumaru Wood Decking
Cost
Cumaru wood tends to be more expensive than some other decking wood due to its durability and longevity.
Difficult to Install
The hardness of Cumaru can make it challenging to work with during installation. Its dense grain quickly dulls the machine blade. Pre-drilling may be necessary when screwing to avoid splitting. This may increase the labor and time required for installation.
Maintenance
We know that Cumaru wood requires less maintenance than some other woods, yet it still needs periodic sealing or oiling to maintain its appearance in outdoor environments and extend its life.
Color Change
Cumaru is a beautiful wood, but due to the effect of weather, the color of the wood changes, becoming black or dark with time. Some people appreciate this natural patina, while others may prefer the original color. Consider this aspect when choosing a Cumaru for your deck.
Cumaru Deck Cleaning and Maintenance Guide
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your deck regularly (once or twice a year is recommended). For cleaning, use a garden hose or pressure washer with a low-pressure setting.
- Sealing or Oiling: Cumaru wood must be periodically sealed or oiled to protect it from UV rays and moisture. This helps in maintaining its natural color and prevents discoloration.
- Avoid Chemical: Avoid using chemical-based cleaners, which can damage the beautiful color and grain of the deck. STAR BRITE Non-Skid Deck Cleaner is great for cleaning decks.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your Cumaru deck for signs of wear loose or damaged boards. Immediately repair or replace any damaged or loose boards as necessary to prevent further problems.
- Winter Care: If you live in a cold or winter area where it snows frequently, avoid letting snow accumulate on your deck for long periods of time. Avoid using metal shovels or sharp objects that could scratch the wood. It is better to apply a protective finish before winter.
