Why is Genuine Mahogany so great?

  • Workability – Genuine Mahogany wood is an outstanding wood to work with. It is easy to machine, sand, and carve. Genuine Mahogany lumber has experienced recent popularity as an exterior wood. It is now used extensively by window and door manufacturers due to its exceptional moisture and rot resistance. Many cabinet shops and furniture makers prize the wood not only for its durability but also for its ease of machining and its deep, rich color.
  • Stability – Mahogany wood is well known for it’s superb stability. Well dried Mahogany Boards will remain flat. Joints will stay glued up and intact.
  • Durability – The durability of Mahogany wood can’t be compared to the durability of Teak wood, but it does have a very high rot and decay resistance.
  • Color and Grain – Mahogany Wood has a  unique pinkish brown heartwood and tight wavy grain.

Types of Mahogany

When preparing your mahogany wood project, you should know that there are four Latin American Mahogany Wood species that are classified under the genus Swietenia. You have the Big Leaf Mahogany, Caribbean Mahogany, Venezuelan Mahogany and the Honduran Mahogany. If you’re selecting on the type you should be using, you’ll find that most experts will greatly recommend the Big Leaf Mahogany because it is known as the “real” or “Genuine Mahogany.” Be sure to remember that Mahogany can also go by the names caoba or acajou and has a higher value since it is a prized type of wood.

Benefits of Using Mahogany

In search of and Exotic Wood that’s beautiful and fairly easy to work with? You will not regret using Mahogany for your project! Many woodworkers say that Mahogany Wood is easy to work even when using hand or power tools. Unlike other types of hardwoods, Mahogany wood glues, nails, and screws exceptionally well. As far as staining, Mahogany Wood takes it exquisitely and will provide you a beautiful high-gloss finish. When working with Mahogany heartwood, you’ll be pleasantly surprised as to how strong and durable it can be. Mahogany Wood can be used for veneers, boat decks, and just about anything that needs to withstand time and the elements.

Buying Mahogany

Before Buying your Mahogany Lumber – Make sure to ask what grade it is and definitely ask for Selects, FAS, or FAS 1-face grades because these are prime indicators of quality for hardwoods.

Pricing  – You should also assess the price range. Always ask the opinion from hardwood dealers as to whether it’s a good deal or not. Try going to different stores and hardwood dealers to compare price differences between the grade ratings. Doing this will help you decide whether the highest grade of Mahogany is really necessary for your project or if an alternative wood like Sapele or African Mahogany can be used.

Fresh Milled or Seasoned – The age of Mahogany Wood plays a major role and it does matter when it comes to your project. Be sure ask how it will impact your needs. Compare the shades; pink or yellow Mahogany Wood is a sign of freshly cut lumber. Dark red to brown will signify aged and well seasoned Mahogany Lumber.

Sanding and Finishing Mahogany

Sanding – When working with Mahogany Wood, gradual sanding is essential. Start sanding with a 120-grit and decide you prefer a very smooth surface with closed up pores. When using wood fillers, be sure to always read and follow the instructions carefully before mixing with any type of thinner. Wood fillers will need to completely dry over a 24 hour period before you can continue sanding with a high grit sanding paper.

Finishing – Once you’re finished with sanding portion of your project, you should be ready to stain it. Use a staining brush or a clean cotton rag to apply the stain. Don’t forget to wipe off any excess stain as you go. Once you’ve completed the staining process, apply a protective coat or sealer such as tung oil or polyurethane. This will complete and protect your masterpieces for years to come.