When it comes to outdoor decking, homeowners and contractors are constantly seeking the perfect balance between beauty, strength, and low maintenance. One material that continues to rise in popularity thanks to its exceptional durability and rich appearance is Cumaru. Also known as Brazilian Teak, Cumaru is a tropical hardwood that offers premium performance in any climate, making it one of the most reliable options for exterior wood projects.
In this guide, we’ll explore why Cumaru is a standout choice for your next decking project, how it compares to other hardwoods, and what makes it such a long-term investment.
What Is Cumaru?
Cumaru is a dense, naturally oily hardwood native to South America, particularly Brazil and Peru. It’s renowned for its high resistance to wear, weather, and insects, which makes it an ideal material for exterior applications such as decks, docks, pergolas, and outdoor furniture.
This wood is often compared to Ipe—another top-tier tropical hardwood—due to its comparable strength and longevity. However, Cumaru offers similar benefits at a more affordable price point, making it an appealing alternative.
Visual Appeal and Color Variety
One of the first things you’ll notice about Cumaru is its striking appearance. The color ranges from medium golden-brown to reddish tones, often with contrasting dark grain streaks. These rich natural tones bring warmth and character to any outdoor setting, elevating both modern and rustic designs.
Over time, Cumaru weathers to a sophisticated silvery-gray patina when left untreated—perfect for homeowners who prefer a more natural, aged look. Alternatively, you can preserve its vibrant color with UV-blocking sealers and annual maintenance.
Exceptional Durability and Performance
With a Janka hardness rating of 3,540 lbf, Cumaru is one of the hardest woods available for commercial use. This toughness translates into long-term resistance to scratches, dents, and other surface damage.
It also boasts high resistance to rot, mold, decay, and insects—thanks to its dense grain and natural oils. Unlike softwoods and composite materials, Cumaru doesn’t require chemical treatments to endure in extreme environments.
Its fire resistance is another major plus: Cumaru holds a Class A fire rating, putting it on par with steel and concrete in fire performance. For homes in dry, fire-prone regions, this is a key safety benefit.
Ideal for Any Climate
Whether you're building a deck in a rainy coastal area or a dry desert region, Cumaru wood holds up exceptionally well. Its density helps prevent warping and cupping, even in fluctuating temperatures and humidity.
That said, like all hardwoods, it’s important to allow the boards to acclimate before installation. Give your Cumaru decking materials a week or two to adjust to your local climate conditions before cutting and fastening.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Due to its density, Cumaru is best installed by experienced contractors or skilled DIYers. Stainless steel screws and pre-drilled pilot holes are highly recommended to avoid splitting and ensure secure fastening.
Here are some installation tips to keep in mind:
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Maintain a ¼-inch gap between boards to allow for natural expansion and drainage.
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Ensure your substructure has good airflow to prevent moisture buildup.
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Apply a water-based UV inhibitor if you want to preserve its natural color.
In terms of maintenance, Cumaru is relatively low-effort. An annual clean with a deck wash and brush, followed by resealing if desired, will keep your deck looking its best.
Cumaru vs Other Decking Options
Compared to composite decking or softwoods like cedar and redwood, Cumaru offers unmatched natural resilience without synthetic materials or preservatives. It also outperforms pressure-treated pine in every category—appearance, longevity, and safety.
While composite decking may offer convenience, it lacks the authentic warmth and richness that natural hardwoods like Cumaru provide. If you want a decking material that offers both form and function for decades, Cumaru is hard to beat.
Sustainable and Long-Term Investment
Cumaru is often responsibly harvested from managed forests in South America, and many suppliers—such as Amazon Hardwoods—ensure their wood is legally and ethically sourced.
Its long lifespan (25–50+ years with proper care) and minimal maintenance requirements make it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious builders and homeowners alike.
Choose Amazon Hardwoods for Your Cumaru Decking
Looking for premium-grade Cumaru for your next project? Amazon Hardwoods offers a wide selection of Cumaru decking, including standard, pre-grooved, and tongue-and-groove options. Whether you're a builder, contractor, or homeowner, their expert team is ready to guide you through every step.
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Sustainably sourced hardwood from trusted suppliers
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Kiln-dried for maximum stability and performance
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Precise milling and custom sizing available
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Expert advice and product support
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Competitive pricing and fast delivery across the U.S.
Visit Amazon Hardwoods to explore their full range of Cumaru products and get started on your outdoor transformation today.
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