Why Cumaru Hardwood Decking Is a Top Choice for Outdoor Spaces

When it comes to premium decking materials, few woods can compete with the durability, beauty, and performance of Cumaru hardwood. Often referred to as Brazilian Teak, Cumaru is rapidly becoming a favorite among builders, designers, and homeowners looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution for outdoor decking.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Cumaru decking—what it is, why it’s so durable, how it compares to other hardwoods, and whether it’s the right choice for your next decking project.

What Is Cumaru?

Cumaru (pronounced koo-ma-roo) is a tropical hardwood species native to South America, primarily found in countries like Brazil and Peru. Botanically known as Dipteryx odorata, it’s harvested from large, slow-growing trees and prized for its density, strength, and rich natural hues.

Cumaru is often compared to Ipe (Brazilian Walnut) because of its similar durability and aesthetic qualities, but it comes at a slightly lower cost—making it a value-packed alternative for luxury decking.

The Advantages of Cumaru Decking

1. Extreme Durability

Cumaru is one of the hardest woods in the world, with a Janka hardness rating of over 3,300 lbf. For context, that’s more than double the hardness of oak. This makes Cumaru incredibly resistant to:

• Scratches and dents

• Daily wear and tear

• Heavy foot traffic

• Furniture and grill placement

It’s a perfect option for high-use outdoor spaces that require a tough surface capable of withstanding the elements.

2. Natural Resistance to Rot and Insects

Thanks to its dense grain structure and high oil content, Cumaru naturally resists rot, mildew, and insect infestations—including termites. Unlike softwoods that need chemical treatments to survive the outdoors, Cumaru performs well in humid, wet, or coastal climates without added preservatives.

3. Minimal Maintenance

If left untreated, Cumaru decking will gracefully weather to a silvery-gray patina over time—similar to Ipe or Teak. For homeowners who prefer to retain the wood’s original golden-brown and reddish hues, applying a UV-protective oil once or twice a year is enough to maintain its rich color.

Cleaning is simple, too: a mild detergent and soft-bristle brush can remove most dirt and debris. There’s no need for regular sanding or sealing like with other wood decks.

4. Sustainable and Long-Lasting

Cumaru is an eco-friendly choice when sourced responsibly. Many suppliers, including Amazon Hardwoods, offer Cumaru that is harvested in accordance with sustainable forestry practices. With a lifespan of 30+ years—and often much longer—Cumaru decking minimizes the need for frequent replacements, making it a sustainable investment in the long term.

Aesthetic Appeal: Natural Beauty That Lasts

One of Cumaru’s biggest draws is its stunning appearance. Boards typically range in color from golden tan to deep reddish-brown, often with subtle striping or interlocked grain. This gives your deck a warm, luxurious look that complements both modern and rustic outdoor design styles.

Because Cumaru’s grain patterns are unique to each board, no two decks look exactly the same—a major advantage for homeowners seeking a custom, high-end finish.

Installation Considerations

While Cumaru offers many benefits, it’s important to understand a few key aspects of working with this hardwood:

• Pre-drilling is essential. Due to its density, Cumaru can split or crack if fasteners are applied without pre-drilling pilot holes. Many installers opt for hidden fastening systems for a cleaner finish.

• Acclimation is important. Like all hardwoods, Cumaru should be acclimated to its environment before installation to reduce movement due to changes in moisture or temperature.

• Proper spacing is critical. Leave appropriate spacing between boards to allow for expansion and contraction with seasonal changes.

While it’s not as DIY-friendly as softwoods like cedar or pine, experienced contractors will have no trouble installing Cumaru for a long-lasting, beautiful deck.

Is Cumaru Right for You?

If you're looking for a hardwood decking material that can stand the test of time, deliver serious aesthetic impact, and require minimal upkeep, Cumaru is a top contender. Its natural resilience, rich color palette, and cost-effectiveness make it an excellent alternative to more expensive hardwoods.

Whether you’re building a backyard retreat, poolside deck, or rooftop terrace, Cumaru hardwood decking offers the perfect blend of form and function.

Ready to Build with Cumaru?

At Amazon Hardwoods, we specialize in premium-grade Cumaru decking boards—available in a variety of sizes and profiles. Our Cumaru is sustainably harvested and carefully milled to ensure consistent quality and long-term performance.

Explore our full selection today, or reach out to our team for expert advice on how to make the most of your next decking project.