Tigerwood (astronium fraxinifolium) is a type of hardwood found in the tropical forests of Latin America. It is primarily used as tigerwood flooring as well as other building materials such as decks and paneling. The major exporter of this wood is Brazil but it also grows well in Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela. The sapwood is light in color and can range from tan to red, while the heartwood colors consist of a rich brown with dark striations that gives it a unique look.
Tigerwood, sometimes called zebrawood, can be found in many altitudes and climates. The tree can grow up to 120 feet high and 3 feet in diameter. Hardwood is typically measured for strength by using the Janka rating system. It consistently measures in at 1850, which is 300 points higher than other strong woods. The wood is very stable and will not warp or splinter. It ages extremely well, and with the right care, it can last for a lifetime.
Prized for its strength and durability, tigerwood has become a popular choice for flooring. Tigerwood hardwood flooring costs more than other strong woods but it immediately gives any room an exotic feeling. An added advantage is that the surface has a slight oily appearance making it appear to be polished.
As with any decision for the home, buyers should always consider all of the factors of flooring and its long-term use. With some research and planning, the major factor of tigerwood that people tend to dislike can be transformed into a positive characteristic in the long run. Since the wood typically darkens over time, particularly when it’s exposed to sunlight, consider installing the wood into a room that receives an even amount of sunlight. This is the major reason why the wood works so well in decking. This darkening characteristic is typical of most hardwoods and is not an abnormality of tigerwood. After the flooring is installed, the colors of the tigerwood will deepen and allow the appearance of the wood to progress.
Proper care for the floor should be the same as for any typical wood floor, tigerwood or no. With the following important and preventative steps, the life of your beautiful floor can be extended. The care can be remembered in two words: Protect and Clean. Protect by placing area rugs in more high use areas along with trimming your pet’s nails. Add felt protectors to the bottom of furniture and vacuum any dirt to prevent the scratching of the wood. Clean any spill immediately to avoid possible water damage and always use cleaning solutions that have been recommended by the retailer. If a solution was not mentioned, then make your own solution of water with approximately 10 percent of Windex or comparable window cleaner.
These simple steps are quick and affordable ways to extend the life of your tigerwood wide plank flooring. Tigerwood floors can be more expensive than typical hardwood floors, but this special hardwood can make a bold statement for any room of the house and last for many years with very little effort.
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