Tali
Specification Details
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Erythrophleum ivorense / Erythrophleum suaveolens |
| Common Name | Tali |
| Hardness (Janka) | 1,960 lbf |
| Color | Yellow-brown to reddish-brown heartwood; lighter sapwood |
| Grain | Straight to interlocked |
| Texture | Medium |
| Natural Luster | Low to medium |
| Durability | Very durable |
| Typical Uses | Decking, heavy construction, exterior joinery, marine |
Workability
Tali is difficult to work due to its density and hardness. Sharp, preferably carbide-tipped tools are recommended. Pre-drilling is required for fasteners. It glues with difficulty and finishes are not always necessary for exterior use. Dust may be irritating, and proper PPE is essential.
Common Uses
Decking, exterior joinery, bridges, heavy construction, marine works, and industrial applications.
What Makes Tali Unique
Tali is valued for its exceptional durability and strength, particularly in exterior and structural applications. It is often used as an alternative to Azobé or Greenheart where long service life and resistance to harsh conditions are required.
Why Choose Tali
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Very High Durability: Excellent resistance to decay and insects
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Strong and Hard: Suitable for heavy-duty and load-bearing uses
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Long Service Life: Performs well in demanding environments
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Low Maintenance: Ideal for exterior applications
Why You Might Not Choose Tali
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Difficult Workability: Hard and dense
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Heavy Weight: Challenging to handle and install
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Tool Wear: Rapidly dulls cutting edges
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Health Sensitivity: Dust may cause irritation; PPE required
Climate Performance & Acclimation
Tali performs extremely well outdoors and in harsh environments. Proper seasoning and acclimation are important for flooring or joinery to minimize movement.
Ideal for Heavy-Duty & Exterior Projects
Its durability and strength make Tali ideal for decking, bridges, marine structures, and exterior architectural elements.
Color and Grain Stability
Tali’s color darkens over time, developing a rich brown patina. Weathering may cause surface greying if left unfinished, without affecting structural performance.
Popular Applications
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Decking and outdoor walkways
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Bridges and heavy construction
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Marine and waterfront structures
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Exterior joinery and gates
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Industrial flooring
Current Design Trends Featuring Tali
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Long-life exterior decking systems
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Heavy-duty architectural timber
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Low-maintenance outdoor structures
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Sustainable tropical hardwood alternatives
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