Tigerwood

Tigerwood is a common name that refers to the wood produced from several species of tropical trees, known for its striking grain pattern that resembles the stripes of a tiger. This type of wood is highly valued in furniture making, flooring, and decorative veneers due to its durability, unique appearance, and color variations ranging from light orange to a deep reddish-brown. The most commonly sourced species for Tigerwood comes from trees in the genus Goncalo Alves, which are native to the tropical forests of Central and South America.

Characteristics

Tigerwood is renowned for its dense and hard nature, making it resistant to wear and tear, which is a desirable property for flooring materials. The wood's grain is interlocked or wavy, contributing to its aesthetic appeal and the 'tiger-stripe' effect. Additionally, Tigerwood has a high luster and is capable of finishing very smoothly, enhancing its visual appeal in crafted products.

Applications

Due to its durability and striking appearance, Tigerwood is often used in a variety of applications. It is popular in the manufacturing of furniture, flooring, and veneers. In addition, it is also used for making musical instruments, carvings, and turnings. The wood's resistance to moisture and decay makes it suitable for outdoor applications as well, such as decking and garden furniture.

Environmental Concerns

The harvesting of Tigerwood, like many tropical hardwoods, raises concerns regarding deforestation and the sustainability of its sourcing. Illegal logging and the exploitation of tropical forests for valuable woods such as Tigerwood have significant environmental impacts. As a result, it is important to ensure that Tigerwood products are sourced from certified sustainable forestry practices to mitigate these concerns.

Sustainability and Certification

Consumers and manufacturers can look for certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification to ensure that the Tigerwood they purchase is sourced from responsibly managed forests. These certifications help in promoting sustainable forestry practices and in reducing the environmental impact of logging activities.

See Also

• Hardwood
• Sustainable forestry
• Tropical forest