Ayous
Specification Details
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Triplochiton scleroxylon |
| Common Name | Ayous (Ofram, Samba) |
| Hardness (Janka) | 410 lbf |
| Color | Creamy white to pale yellow heartwood; slightly lighter sapwood |
| Grain | Usually straight |
| Texture | Fine to medium |
| Natural Luster | Low |
| Durability | Not durable |
| Typical Uses | Plywood, veneers, interior joinery, lightweight furniture |
Workability
Ayous is very easy to work due to its low density and straight grain. It machines, saws, and sands smoothly, and accepts glue and finishes well. Pre-drilling is generally not required. Its soft nature makes it suitable for carving and shaping, though care should be taken to avoid dents.
Common Uses
Plywood, veneers, interior furniture, paneling, lightweight joinery, and decorative surfaces.
What Makes Ayous Unique
Ayous is prized for its light color, fine texture, and ease of working, making it an ideal timber for veneers, plywood, and interior applications. Its light weight and straight grain are particularly advantageous for large panels and detailed joinery.
Why Choose Ayous
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Lightweight and Easy to Work: Ideal for machining, cutting, and shaping
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Attractive Pale Color: Suitable for painted or natural finishes
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Excellent Veneer Wood: Commonly used for plywood and sliced veneers
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Versatile: Works well for furniture, paneling, and interior joinery
Why You Might Not Choose Ayous
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Low Durability: Not suitable for exterior or high-moisture environments
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Soft Wood: Can dent or scratch easily
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Limited Structural Use: Best for decorative and light applications
Climate Performance & Acclimation
Ayous performs best in controlled interior environments. Proper acclimation before installation ensures dimensional stability and minimizes movement.
Ideal for Lightweight & Interior Projects
Its pale color and soft, workable texture make Ayous ideal for plywood, veneers, paneling, lightweight furniture, and decorative joinery.
Color and Grain Stability
Ayous retains its pale color over time, although finishes can slightly alter its tone. The straight grain provides a uniform appearance for painted or clear finishes.
Popular Applications
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Plywood and veneers
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Interior furniture and cabinetry
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Decorative wall paneling
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Lightweight joinery
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Carvings and shaped woodwork
Current Design Trends Featuring Ayous
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Light-colored, minimalist interiors
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Modern plywood furniture
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Painted or veneered panels
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Sustainable, lightweight timber applications
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