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Dabema

Dabema

Specification Details

Specification Details
Species Piptadeniastrum africanum
Common Name Dabema
Hardness (Janka) 1,350 lbf
Color Yellowish-brown to medium brown heartwood; paler sapwood
Grain Straight to slightly interlocked
Texture Medium
Natural Luster Low to medium
Durability Moderately durable
Typical Uses Construction, furniture, joinery, flooring

Workability

Dabema is generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It machines cleanly with minimal tearout, though interlocked grain may occasionally require care. It glues and finishes well. Pre-drilling is recommended for nails and screws, and dust may cause irritation, so PPE is advised.


Common Uses

General construction, furniture, interior and exterior joinery, flooring, formwork, and utility wood applications.


What Makes Dabema Unique

Dabema is valued for its strength, versatility, and balanced performance. It offers a good combination of durability, workability, and cost-effectiveness, making it a practical choice for both structural and decorative applications.


Why Choose Dabema

  • Good Strength: Suitable for construction and load-bearing uses

  • Easy Workability: Machines and finishes well

  • Versatile: Works for furniture, joinery, and flooring

  • Cost-Effective: Good performance at a practical price point


Why You Might Not Choose Dabema

  • Moderate Durability: Not ideal for prolonged exterior exposure without protection

  • Plain Appearance: Less decorative than some tropical hardwoods

  • Grain Variation: Occasional interlocked grain may require careful machining


Climate Performance & Acclimation

Dabema performs well when properly seasoned and acclimated. For exterior use, appropriate treatment and finishing are recommended to extend service life.


Ideal for Structural & Utility Applications

Its strength and workability make Dabema suitable for construction, flooring, and general-purpose joinery where performance is prioritized over decorative appearance.


Color and Grain Stability

Dabema’s color remains relatively stable, with slight darkening over time. Finishes help protect the surface and enhance its natural tone.


Popular Applications

  • Construction and structural elements

  • Furniture and cabinetry

  • Interior and exterior joinery

  • Hardwood flooring

  • Formwork and utility uses


Current Design Trends Featuring Dabema

  • Practical and durable construction materials

  • Natural wood finishes

  • Functional furniture and joinery

  • Sustainable tropical hardwood alternatives

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