Brazilian hardwoods such as ipe, garapa, tigerwood and cumaru have become increasingly popular in South Carolina, and for good reason. They’re durable, beautiful and built to handle the area’s unique climate, making them perfect for everything from decking to flooring.
The coast can be tough on building materials, and Brazilian hardwoods are naturally dense and resistant to moisture, mold, rot and even insects. All four species are Class One durability, the highest durability rating. They are also Class A fire rated, meaning they are highly fire-resistant. “These hardwood species are produced to exacting specifications and are naturally durable without chemical treatments,” says Wes Robichaud, national sales manager at Iron Woods. “They are superior to other decking products as they remain cool underfoot and require less maintenance. They weather to a soft silver patina, allowing them to blend with the popular color palettes of coastal South Carolina.”
Iron Woods is a family-owned wholesale distributor of premium Brazilian hardwoods in South Carolina. Known for its commitment to exceptional customer service and eco-friendly sourcing, Iron Woods ensures that all its products are responsibly harvested from certified forests, meeting both aesthetic and environmental standards. With a focus on long-lasting, low-maintenance solutions, Iron Woods is the go-to supplier for builders, contractors and homeowners who are looking to elevate their projects with some of the finest hardwoods available on the market.
“We’ve been in business for more than 41 years, and we’re still privately owned by the same family. We’ve built a legacy of the best products with the best value, and there’s never a compromise on quality. That’s what distinguishes us and why we do well in South Carolina,” Robichaud says.
Termites are a big problem in the Lowcountry, especially for outdoor structures like decks. The natural pest-resistance of Brazilian hardwoods is due to their dense fibers and oils, meaning they won’t attract termites or other insects like some other woods do. This reduces the need for chemical treatment and the risk of damage, saving time and money. These woods can stay strong and beautiful for decades, no matter how much sun or rain they get. A penetrating oil stain can be applied to achieve a desired color tone, but no preservative treatment is needed to protect Iron Woods’ products from insects.
Each Iron Woods species offers unique properties. Ipe is the most durable and longest lasting and is standard for homes of distinction. Garapa has color and warmth unmatched by other naturally durable hardwood species. Its honey gold color comes alive with a coat of penetrating oil that is easily maintained so the wood’s color remains vibrant and rich. Tigerwood makes a bold statement with its stripes and color variations. Cumaru is uniform in color and extremely hard, and it is the practical choice for long-lasting and low-maintenance durability.
Iron Woods imports its wood through the port of Charleston and distributes it from its warehouse in North Charleston. The company does not sell through big-box stores, only via independent retailers in the state. “We don’t sell on price, so big-box stores don’t consider us an option as we’re not a low-cost provider,” Robichaud explains.
Sustainability is the keystone of Iron Woods’ values. “These species are sustainable and are the lowest-maintenance products you can put on your home,” Robichaud says. All of Iron Woods’ products are sourced under Green by Nature, meaning they come from sustainably managed forests, are certified by the Brazilian government and follow Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards. “The future is bright for all these species,” he adds. “There are programs that monitor and eliminate illegal logging, which will help maintain production of the species to our benefit.”
Beyond durability, Brazilian hardwoods are simply stunning. Their rich, deep colors, which range from reddish-brown to golden yellow, bring a touch of elegance and warmth to luxurious outdoor decks and hardwood floors inside the home. They also make a statement; the fine grain and smooth texture make them stand out, and as they age, they only get better.
When it comes to getting your hands on Brazilian hardwoods, it’s easier than you might think. Iron Woods has made it easy for South Carolina residents to access these premium materials. “When I chose the premier lumberyards I wanted to court in Charleston, I chose the retailers who represent the highest quality and service level,” Robichaud says. “The finest homes, the most discriminating homeowners, demand these products.” *
Robin Howard is a freelance writer in Charleston. See more of her work at robinhowardwrites.com.
