
Why Should You Use Cumaru Hardwood to Build Your Dream Deck?
Adding a new deck is one of the easiest ways to increase the value of your home. When considering a deck, it is essential to choose the right type of material. Not all decks are created equal, and understanding the best wood for your deck can save you both time and money. If you’ve begun your research, you may have discovered there are many types of hardwood to choose from. Among these options, Cumaru wood is often regarded as one of the best choices for building a hardwood deck.
To assist you in determining whether Cumaru is the right hardwood option for your home, we’ve compiled a straightforward list of the pros and cons of this material.
What You Need to Know About Cumaru Hardwood
Cumaru wood, also known as Brazilian Teak, comes from Northern South America. It is celebrated for its durability and distinctive color. Typically, Cumaru wood ranges from medium to dark brown, but it can also exhibit reddish or purplish hues and features streaks of yellow and green that blend beautifully into its brown tones. The grain is interlocked, giving Cumaru a medium texture with a waxy feel, and it may emit faint hints of cinnamon or vanilla when being installed.
Pros of Using Cumaru Hardwood
1) Durability – Cumaru wood is rot-resistant and outlasts many other types of decking wood, such as Pine, Redwood, and Cedar. This durability is a benefit, especially in various weather conditions.
2) Fire Resistance – Cumaru wood has a “Class A” fire rating, which is comparable to that of steel and concrete, providing added safety. This is a significant advantage in areas prone to wildfires.
3) Pest Resistance – It has excellent resistance to termites and other wood-boring pests, making it an ideal choice for humid climates, as it is also resistant to mildew and mold.
4) Cost-Effective – It is generally more affordable than other premium woods, such as Ipe, making it a great alternative.
5) Longevity – With a lifespan of over 50 years, Cumaru wood is low-maintenance compared to other wood options.
6) Aesthetic Appeal – Its visually appealing finish enhances the overall look of your deck.
7) Eco-Friendly – Cumaru wood is naturally strong and does not require harmful chemical treatments. It is also 100% biodegradable.

A gorgeous Cumaru hardwood deck with a single wrap around stair. We installed Genesis step lights in multiple places on the stair riser.

This Cumaru hardwood deck was just stained with Ipe oil to give it a rich finish.
Cons of Using Cumaru Wood
1) Workability – Due to its density and interlocked grain, Cumaru wood can be challenging to install. It may present difficulties when using glue, screws, or nails.
2) Tool Wear – The silica content in Cumaru wood can lead to moderate blunting of cutting tools, affecting their longevity.
3) Installation Requirements – Installation may require predrilling or the use of specialized hardware due to the wood’s properties. Many manufacturers will perform the predrilling for a charge.
4) Weight and Stiffness – Cumaru is heavy, stiff, and hard, which can make it labor-intensive to work with.
Additional Considerations When Building a Cumaru Hardwood Deck
1) Budget – Prices for Cumaru wood can fluctuate as it is a commodity. Factors influencing pricing include supply and market demand.
2) Wood Quality – Ensure the wood is properly dried to guarantee stability and prevent warping.
3) Purpose – Purchase wood specifically intended for outdoor use; indoor wood undergoes a different drying process.
4) Local Regulations – Check your local building codes and regulations before starting your project to avoid any compliance issues.
5) Deck Structure – Use quality materials for the underlying structure of your deck. This includes using hardware designed for tropical hardwoods, such as hidden fasteners and stainless steel screws for a seamless finish.
6) Color Changes – Be aware that Cumaru wood may change color over time, especially if exposed directly to sunlight, fading to its natural reddish tone.
Conclusion
Building a Cumaru hardwood deck can create the perfect backyard oasis. If you’re ready to enhance your outdoor space, contact us today to start planning your custom deck!
Decks by Schmillen
719-440-6966