27 Mar Garapa Wood Vs Nordic Pine
Are you unsure whether you should use Garapa wood or Nordic Pine for your next project? A seasoned carpenter or DIY enthusiast can attest that choosing the correct type of wood for a project can make a world of difference. Our Garapa wood and pressure-treated Nordic Pine are both renowned for their durability, yet each consist of their own benefits and drawbacks. Here is everything you will need to know about each to make an informed decision and to obtain the best results for your next project!
Indoor & Outdoor Structures
Garapa wood is a sustainable choice for outdoor projects that require high resistance to environmental elements such as the weather and insects. It is an especially popular material when it comes to decking, pergolas, and wood sidings. Garapa’s strength and aesthetic appeal also allow it to be used indoors, for structures such as floors, staircases, or a unique piece of indoor furniture.
This pressure-treated pine is frequently used in demanding outdoor environments. It is an exceptionally popular timber, and Nordic Pine is ideal for decking, cladding, and fencing due to its high resistance to moisture. Nordic Pine is used indoors mostly for structural framing and roofing. While modern pressure-treated wood is generally safe, it should not be used for surfaces that regularly come into contact with skin or food. It should also not be burned as it may release harmful chemicals.
Aesthetics & Appearance
Garapa wood is highly regarded for its bright, sunny aesthetic, and is often referred to as a ‘golden-yellow’ to ‘honey-brown’ timber that brings a warm and inviting feeling to both indoor and outdoor spaces. This Brazilian hardwood offers a refined, modern look with its finer texture and interlocked grain, providing a consistent, clean, and polished appearance. Maintain the upkeep of your home and extend deck life with pre-winter oils and treatments.
Aesthetically defined by its prominent ‘butterfly’ knots and straight grain, pressure-treated Nordic Pine offers a warm and rustic aesthetic. This wood features a distinct colour transition from a greenish-brown to a silvery colour after excessive UV exposure. If you wish to prevent your wood from turning grey, it is recommended to apply UV-protectant oils or semi-transparent stains.
Costs
Compared to softwoods, Garapa is generally more expensive. This is because Garapa is a premium, durable hardwood, yet it is considered a mid-range, cost-effective alternative compared to higher-end hardwoods such as Balau or Ipe. It offers a high-quality, durable option that balances cost, aesthetics, and long-term value. The deck oils, varnish, and cleaners available make it easier to maintain the durability and look of Garapa.
In comparison to hardwoods, pressure-treated Nordic Pine is generally considered to be an affordable, mid-range option. While it’s more expensive than untreated pine, it remains significantly cheaper than woods that are naturally rot-resistant. Pressure-treated Nordic Pine is a great low-maintenance, long-term investment due to its high resistance against rot and insects.
Choosing between decking or structural Garapa or Nordic Pine essentially comes down to your building needs and desired aesthetics. If your priorities are appearance, durability, and longevity, then Garapa would be a good choice for your project. However, if your main concerns are budget and structural utility, then you cannot go wrong with pressure-treated Nordic Pine.
At Garapa.co.za, we’re committed to providing our customers with the best quality timber for your next project. CONTACT US today for our finest selection of wood materials.