Padauk Wood Overview:
Padauk, or African Red Padauk, is a high-quality hardwood prized for its striking reddish color and unique appearance. Native to Central and West Africa, it is commonly used in both decorative and structural applications. With its rich red hues and excellent workability, Padauk is ideal for high-end furniture, flooring, and millwork.
Physical Properties of Padauk Lumber:
Density: 800-850 kg/m³
Janka Hardness: 1,220 lbf (5,420 N)
Color: The heartwood is a vibrant reddish-orange to deep red, which darkens to a deeper reddish-brown with age. The sapwood is pale yellowish or brownish.
Durability: Highly durable with good resistance to decay and insect attack, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use when properly treated.
Grain: Typically straight, but can be interlocked or wavy; the texture is coarse to medium, giving it a fine finish when worked.
African Red Padauk Workability:
Machining: Padauk machines well with both hand and power tools, though the wood’s density means it may require sharp tools for a smooth finish.
Gluing: Pads well with most adhesives, making it ideal for intricate joinery.
Nailing and Screwing: Nailing and screwing are effective with pre-drilling, as Padauk can split if not properly handled, especially in thinner sections.
What is Padauk Used for?
Furniture: Ideal for fine furniture such as tables, chairs, and cabinetry. Its color and grain make it perfect for visible surfaces and accent pieces.
Flooring: The hardness and beautiful color of Padauk make it an excellent choice for high-end flooring in residential and commercial settings.
Millwork: Often used in moldings, trim, and window frames, Padauk’s workability and aesthetic appeal shine in interior applications.
Veneer: Due to its striking appearance, Padauk is often sliced into veneer for use in luxury finishes and paneling.
Sustainability:
Conservation Status: Padauk is not currently listed in CITES; however, sustainable harvesting practices are essential to ensure the long-term availability of this species.
Source Management: It is critical to source Padauk from certified sustainable forests to maintain ecosystem integrity and ensure that it remains available for future generations.
Why Choose Padauk?
Aesthetic Appeal: The striking red color and rich grain patterns make Padauk a highly sought-after wood for furniture and interior design.
Durability: With its excellent resistance to wear and tear, Padauk is ideal for both high-traffic applications and fine furniture.
Versatility: Whether for crafting luxury furniture, detailed millwork, or high-end flooring, Padauk’s versatility makes it a preferred choice for woodworkers and designers.
