Satinwood is a remarkable hardwood prized for its remarkable qualities and is often referred to as Ceylon satinwood. This exotic wood is sourced from the Satinwood tree, which typically grows to small to medium sizes. Brazilian Wood Depot, headquartered in Georgia, is your go-to supplier for the finest Brazilian hardwoods in the United States. We serve both residential and commercial clients nationwide who seek the best in Brazilian hardwoods.
Characteristic of Satinwood Scientific name: Zanthoxylum flavum Tree Size: 30-40 ft (9-12 m) tall, 1-1.5 ft (30-46 cm) trunk diameter Average Dried Weight: 56 lbs/ft3 (900 kg/m3) Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): 0.71, 0.90 Janka Hardness: 1,820 lbf (8,100 N) Rot-resistant: Moderately Hardness: Very Hard Type: Hardwood
The heartwood of satinwood boasts a range of hues from deep golden-yellow to orange-brown, often adorned with dark brown or orange streaks, while the sapwood showcases a pale yellow or cream color. Satinwood’s wood color can slightly differ based on its specific species. Notably, this wood features an interlocked or irregular grain and possesses a fine and even texture, along with a remarkably high natural luster.
Does Satinwood Change Color Over Time? Much like other hardwoods, satinwood undergoes a gradual darkening process over time, particularly when exposed to light. The extent of color change in satinwood depends on various factors, including the specific species, the type of finish or protective coating applied, and the level of exposure to light.
Common Uses of Satinwood Satinwood is highly favored for fine furniture, inlay work, decorative items, turnings, and veneer. Thanks to its robust and durable characteristics, satinwood proves itself versatile for various indoor woodworking projects.
Satinwood Pros and Cons Satinwood stands out as an excellent hardwood for numerous applications but also comes with certain drawbacks. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of satinwood:
Pros:
- Exquisite Appearance: Satinwood’s smooth and lustrous surface, along with attractive grain patterns, make it a popular choice for interior projects.
- Durability: This hardwood is exceptionally durable, capable of withstanding wear and tear, resistant to scratches and dents, which makes it ideal for flooring.
- Stability: Satinwood is relatively stable and less susceptible to warping and shrinking, making it an excellent option for applications exposed to moisture and varying weather conditions.
- Ease of Finishing: Satinwood is amenable to finishing and provides excellent results.
Cons:
- Expensive: Due to its high quality and limited availability, satinwood is considered a premium and relatively expensive hardwood.
- Availability: Satinwood is not as readily available as some other hardwoods and is primarily sourced from tropical regions.
- Challenging to Work With: Satinwood’s hardness and density make it challenging to work with, occasionally causing issues with gluing. Its irregular grain pattern can pose difficulties during planing, making it a bit more demanding for beginners.
Hardness Satinwood ranks among the hardest wood species. East Indian Satinwood, for instance, boasts a Janka Hardness of 2,620 lbf (11,650 N), while West Indian Satinwood registers a Janka Hardness of 1,820 lbf (8,100 N). In comparison, satinwood is harder than mahogany, maple, and cedar.
Is Satinwood Suitable for Outdoor Use? Satinwood is not recommended for outdoor applications as it is not naturally resistant to insects and the rigors of weather. When exposed to moisture or soil, satinwood tends to deteriorate rather quickly. While it can withstand the weather for a limited time with proper sealing or finishing, it’s not a long-term solution for outdoor projects.
Is Satinwood Ideal for Furniture? Absolutely, satinwood is an excellent choice for indoor furniture. Its exceptional durability and stability make it a low-maintenance option for creating long-lasting, elegant pieces.
Can Satinwood Be Used for Cutting Boards? Yes, satinwood can be used for cutting boards. It possesses the required hardness to endure knife blows and moisture. However, it’s worth noting that satinwood is not as popular as species like Maple, Cherry, and Walnut for cutting boards.
Is Satinwood Allergenic? Satinwood has been reported as a sensitizer and may cause irritation in the eyes and skin. It’s advisable to take precautions while working with it, including wearing protective eyewear and gloves.
In conclusion, satinwood is a standout Brazilian hardwood with exceptional characteristics. Brazilian Wood Depot is your trusted source for obtaining this exquisite wood for your projects, whether you are a residential or commercial client. For top-quality Brazilian hardwoods, choose us, your experts in Brazilian wood.
