What is Tiama?
Tiama, also known as White Tiama, is a durable hardwood native to tropical Africa. Its dense composition, coupled with an attractive red-brown color, makes it ideal for high-quality furniture, cabinetry, and joinery. Tiama is favored for its smooth texture and stability in various applications.
Tiama Wood Physical Properties:
Density: 3.5 lb/ft³
Janka Hardness: 393 lbf (1,746 N)
Color: The sapwood is light-colored, ranging from whitish to pinkish, while the heartwood is a rich red-brown that darkens with age.
Grain: Usually straight with a fine texture; it often presents a slight interlocking grain.
Durability: Moderate in durability; it is resistant to decay and insect attacks when properly treated.
Shrinkage: Radial shrinkage of 4.7%, Tangential shrinkage of 7.3%, and Volumetric shrinkage of 12%.
Workability:
Machining: Tiama is easy to machine with sharp tools, though its interlocked grain may cause minor tear-out.
Gluing: It adheres well to adhesives, ensuring solid joints.
Nailing and Screwing: Pre-drilling is recommended to avoid splitting, especially with thicker cuts.
Finishing: Tiama takes stains and finishes well, enhancing its natural color and providing a smooth, attractive sheen.
Tiama Wood Applications:
Furniture: Ideal for cabinetry, tables, and chairs due to its strength and appearance.
Joinery: Used in both interior and exterior applications such as doors and window frames.
Veneer: Commonly sliced into veneers for decorative use in fine furniture and paneling.
Boatbuilding: Tiama is also valued in the boatbuilding industry for its strength and resilience.
Sustainability:
Conservation Status: Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to over-exploitation and habitat loss.
Environmental Considerations: Ensure that Tiama is sourced from sustainably managed forests and certified under sustainable forestry programs, such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).
Why Choose Tiama?
Aesthetic Appeal: Tiama’s reddish-brown color and smooth texture make it a highly attractive choice for fine furniture and cabinetry.
Durability: With good resistance to decay and insects, Tiama is suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
Versatility: Whether for high-end furniture, joinery, or marine applications, Tiama offers excellent versatility for various woodworking projects.
