Trade Names
Sapele, Sapelli
Similar Woods
Douka, Sipo
Origin
Africa
Range
West, Central and East Africa, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, Angola, Zaire, Uganda.
Uses
High quality architectural woodwork. Popular wood for this purpose in the USA, Australia and Japan.
Properties
Due to the unique growing pattern of this tree its wood provides a veneer pattern which is almost figured and, as a result, particularly attractive.
Machining
The growth form of the Sapele has no significant negative effect on machining. Care must be taken that the fibres in the interlocking grain zones do not pick up when machining is done.
Seasoning
Drying should be carried out same as for Sapele.
Finishing
The wood can be stained, varnished and polished well but the resin content has to be considered and must be washed out. Highly polished surfaces are particularly effective.
Jointing
Joints using glue, screws and nails can be produced without any difficulties and are durable.