When it comes to high-performance hardwood, Cumaru stands out not just for its durability and beauty, but for its proven track record in large-scale projects across Florida. This exotic hardwood, sometimes referred to as Brazilian Teak, has become a go-to material for builders and architects working on high-traffic, public spaces where resilience and longevity are key.
Cumaru in Major Florida Projects: The Backbone of Infrastructure
While Cumaru is well-known for its use in residential decking and outdoor projects, what’s less talked about is its critical role in some of Florida’s most iconic public spaces. From boardwalks along the coast to state park facilities and high-end commercial developments, Cumaru has become a material of choice for both its aesthetic appeal and its unmatched durability in Florida’s unique climate.
One notable example is the Naples Pier, a beloved historic landmark where Cumaru was chosen for its exceptional resistance to moisture and wear. The pier endures thousands of visitors daily, along with the constant exposure to saltwater and sun—Cumaru’s natural resilience ensures it stands up to the elements while maintaining its beauty. Similarly, park structures and beachfront walkways from Miami to Fort Lauderdale have opted for Cumaru for the same reasons, recognizing its strength and natural ability to resist rot, decay, and insects.
Janka Hardness Scale: Why Cumaru is Built to Last
Cumaru’s toughness is further validated by its position on the Janka Hardness Scale, which measures the resistance of wood to wear and denting. Cumaru rates at an impressive 3,540 lbf, putting it in almost the same league as Ipe—another premium tropical hardwood known for its durability. While Ipe is widely recognized for its strength, Brazilian Teak offers a more budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing much in terms of durability or performance. This makes Cumaru a smart choice for public projects and residential builds alike, where longevity and cost-effectiveness are key considerations.
The Janka scale serves as an essential reference for contractors and builders when selecting the best hardwood for demanding applications. A higher Janka rating, like Cumaru’s, means the wood is more resistant to scratches, dents, and general wear, making it ideal for outdoor environments and high-traffic areas.
Cumaru: Similar to Ipe, but Easier on the Budget
While Ipe and Cumaru are often compared due to their similar appearance and durability, Brazilian Teak stands out as the budget-friendly option. Both woods feature beautiful, rich tones and high resistance to insects, moisture, and decay. However, Brazilian Teak is more affordable, offering homeowners and contractors the ability to achieve a high-end look and performance without the premium cost of Ipe.
This makes Cumaru an excellent choice for both public infrastructure projects and residential builds, where durability and aesthetic appeal are important but cost is a factor.
Why Contractors Choose Cumaru for Residential Projects
For residential builders and contractors, Cumaru checks all the right boxes. It’s not just about its strength and affordability—it’s also about how user-friendly this wood is for installation and long-term maintenance. Here’s why so many contractors recommend Cumaru to their clients:
- Low Maintenance: Cumaru naturally resists rot, decay, and insect damage, meaning homeowners don’t have to worry about constant repairs or replacements. This makes it an ideal material for decking, siding, and outdoor furniture.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The rich, golden-brown tones of Cumaru, along with its fine grain, add a touch of luxury to any home. Over time, Cumaru ages gracefully, turning into a beautiful silver patina if left untreated—adding even more character to outdoor spaces.
- Lifespan: Given its toughness and resistance to the elements, Cumaru is an investment that lasts. Homeowners can expect their Cumaru deck or outdoor structure to maintain its structural integrity for more than 50 years, making it a wise long-term choice.
Cumaru in High-Traffic Public Spaces: Built to Endure
Cumaru’s unmatched durability makes it the go-to material for state-funded projects, especially in Florida’s coastal regions. Boardwalks, piers, and park facilities often face high foot traffic, extreme weather conditions, and constant exposure to saltwater. Cumaru’s dense fibers naturally repel moisture and prevent rot, making it a favorite for these types of high-traffic environments.
For instance, Cumaru has been selected for municipal projects in Miami where aesthetics, sustainability, and performance are all priorities. The wood’s high resistance to wear and tear ensures that it stays looking great for years, even in spaces that see thousands of visitors each day.
Sustainability Meets Performance
In today’s world, sustainable building materials are more important than ever. What sets Cumaru apart, aside from its strength, is its eco-friendly sourcing. Cumaru used in Florida’s state projects is often responsibly harvested from well-managed forests, ensuring that this beautiful hardwood is as sustainable as it is durable. With Brazilian Teak, builders and architects can offer the best of both worlds: a material that supports environmental efforts while still providing incredible long-term performance.
Beyond Decking: Cumaru’s Versatility in State Projects
While Cumaru is often celebrated for decking, its applications extend far beyond that. Florida’s architects have found innovative ways to incorporate Cumaru into various structures, such as:
- Outdoor Pergolas and Gazebos: Offering shade and protection in parks and recreational areas.
- Bridges and Walkways: Frequently used in eco-friendly developments where sustainability is key, Cumaru’s strength makes it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Public Beachfront Facilities: Cumaru has been used for everything from benches to shelters, combining durability with the natural aesthetic that blends into Florida’s stunning coastlines.
Where Will You See Cumaru Next?
As more public and private developments aim for sustainability without compromising on quality, Cumaru will likely continue to feature in large-scale projects across the state. From municipal parks to luxury hotels, Cumaru is proving itself to be a versatile, premium choice for a wide range of construction needs.
For those looking to use Cumaru in their own projects, whether residential or commercial, you’re in good company. Join the ranks of builders, architects, and municipalities across Florida who have already discovered the incredible value Brazilian Teak brings to every structure it’s a part of.
Get Cumaru for Your Next Project
At Cumaru Decking Florida, we offer premium Cumaru hardwood for any project you can imagine, from decking to major public works. Reach out to us today to find out how you can incorporate this incredible material into your next build.
