Padauk
Color Range
Initial Color: Freshly cut padauk is a striking vivid orange to crimson red, often referred to as "vermillion". Aging Process: This brilliant color is temporary; due to oxidation and UV exposure, it inevitably matures into a deep reddish-brown or dark burgundy. Some lighter pieces may even age to a grayish-brown.
Grain
It features a straight to interlocked grain.
Texture
Coarse, open-pore texture similar to African mahogany.
Other Names
Other names here.
Typical Uses
Decorative: Inlays, fine furniture, and turned objects like pens or bowls. Heavy Duty: Because of its high abrasion resistance, it is used for heavy-duty flooring and tool handles. Musical Instruments: Highly valued as a tonewood for guitars, drums, and xylophone keys due to its resonance.
Weight
3.75
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lbs /Bd. Ft. | 4.75% heavier than red oak (3.58 /bd. ft.)
Hardness
1970
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Janka Rating | 52.71% harder than red oak (1290 psi)
Density
0.61
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Specific Gravity | -4.69% less dense than red oak (.64)
Strength, Stability, and Durability
Stability: Padauk is one of the most dimensionally stable woods available. It has an exceptionally low shrinkage rate and dries rapidly with minimal warping or degradation. Durability: Rated as very durable, it has excellent natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attacks.
Workability / Finishing
Workability: Generally easy to work with, it glues and finishes well. However, the paints and dust created are a bright, clingy orange that can stain other surfaces and irritate the skin or respiratory system.