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Afzelia
Wood Flooring Species
Scientific Name:
Afzelia africana
Other Names and Related Species:
Afa
Beyo
Doussie
Lingue
Papayo
Uvala
Origin:
Africa — Cameroon
Appearance:
The sapwood of afzelia is pale yellow to white, while the heartwood ranges from light brown to reddish-brown. The grain is straight and slightly interlocked. The wood has a medium luster, and the texture is somewhat coarse.
Properties:
Afzelia is very hard and durable, and it has excellent resistance to attack by termites. The wood remains smooth under friction. Afzelia shows only small movement with time.
Janka Hardness: 1810
As a flooring option, afzelia’s hardness is over twice that of southern yellow pine, noticably harder than hard maple, almost identical to hickory or pecan, and about three quarters as hard as santos mahogany.
Workability:
Afzelia has good machining qualities, and it sands to a smooth surface. When nailed, it has good holding ability. The wood has satisfactory staining and polishing ability due to yellow deposits in pores.
Principal Uses:
Because afzelia wood is so hard and strong, it is among the most valuable exotic hardwood species. It uses include fine flooring, furniture, decking, stair rails, and construction.
