African Teak work for

[Craig D Peltier]

Will African Teak work well for a countertop application in 8/4 planed to 1.5 thick? Will it require a different type of glue? Does anyone know if it shrinks much or is prone to checking?

Thank you

[Jim Becker]

http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/where_we_work/africa/solutions_by_region/congo_basin_forests/the_area/wildlife/plants/african_teak/index.cfm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iroko_(hardwood)

[Craig D Peltier]

http://www.panda.org/about_wwf/where_we_work/africa/solutions_by_region/congo_basin_forests/the_area/wildlife/plants/african_teak/index.cfm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iroko_(hardwood)

I had googled it and found what you did an read it. I was looking for workability and real working experience of others here.

Thanks

[Jim Becker]

I didn't come across that info unfortunately, Craig. You might check with Woodworker's Supply as I believe they list it in their stock. They might be able to provide what you want to know.

[Jacob Reverb]

I have used iroko (African teak) in marine applications. It is waterproof, durable, oily wood, but it is also miserable to work with IME.

The stuff I had would twist up like a corkscrew just trying to rip it. There seemed to be a lot of internal stresses in this wood -- unlike anything I've ever seen.

Also difficult to glue with polyurethane glue like I was using -- it's oily.

It is also known to harbor stones, and I have seen sparks personally when cutting it.

Beware and good luck. If you have specific questions, send away.

[Jim Becker]

Jacob, one of the articles I read while pondering Craig's questions indicated that Iroko isn't really African Teak, but often substituted for it. It's certainly a very durable species...a friend who builds Adirondack chairs in the UK uses it...but a different species. The substitutions come largely because real African Teak is an endangered species and the supply is limited.

[Thomas murphy]

If you do a google search for rhodesian. teak you will find more information. I have worked with it before made a few deck chairs and patio table. I use a water proof pva glue. A lot of fine furniture is made from it here in south africa and it is quite common as it was primarily used for railway sleepers and mine sleepers and are being replaced by concrete. It is a very durable wood and hard on blades and cutters. www.hardwoodhouse.co.za is good site with info about african timbers.

[Thomas murphy]

I think I have the wrong wood it might be. Known as afromosia by me. These common names is confusing. Never worked with it it is scarce and cost is prohibitive lovely wood though.