Brazilian Walnut boasts a sophisticated palette of rich browns and nearly black tones, intertwined with a subtle, fine grain that imparts an air of elegance and robustness. This hardwood flooring is highly prized for its striking natural color variation and its ability to create a dramatic, upscale look in any room. With its exceptional hardness and density, Ipe not only adds visual depth but also offers remarkable durability and longevity, making it a luxurious and practical choice for both residential and commercial spaces seeking a touch of timeless refinement.
Scientific Name:
Handroanthus spp., commonly referred to as Brazilian Walnut or Ipe.
Density:
Brazilian Walnut is recognized for its exceptionally high density, typically around 69 pounds per cubic foot when air-dried. This density contributes significantly to its strength and durability, making it ideal for heavy-duty use.
Hardness:
Brazilian Walnut is extremely hard, with a Janka hardness rating of about 3,680 pounds-force. This places it among the hardest woods used in flooring, capable of withstanding significant wear and stress.
Stability:
Brazilian Walnut has very good dimensional stability. It performs well across a variety of climatic conditions, although, like all woods, it remains somewhat susceptible to changes caused by extreme variations in humidity and temperature. Proper acclimation, installation, and climate control, are crucial to good stability.
Finishing Characteristics:
Brazilian Walnut has a fine to medium texture and an interlocked grain, providing a smooth, color varied appearance. It finishes beautifully with a clear coat that enhances its deep, rich natural color, ranging from olive brown to blackish-brown, but a finish should be tested first. While its high density can make the wood challenging to work with, particularly in staining, the end result is a visually striking and durable surface.