Collection: Kapur Timber

Appearance of Kapur Timber

Kapur timber is notable for its natural luster and distinct sapwood and heartwood coloration. The sapwood ranges from white to light yellowish brown, contrasting sharply with the red to reddish-brown hues of the heartwood. Its grain varies from straight to spiral or deeply interlocked, often creating striking patterns. The texture is moderately coarse but even, making Kapur an appealing choice for decorative and architectural projects.

Applications of Kapur Timber

Kapur is widely used in construction and design, both internally and externally. Its weather resistance makes it a preferred material for door and window frames, sills, flooring, and staircases. It is also valued for external decking and sturdy outdoor furniture, as it weathers gracefully to a soft gray, similar to teak. In structural applications, Kapur is employed in posts, beams, rafters, and telegraphic cross arms. Additionally, its use extends to internal joinery, laboratory benches, tool handles, pallets, and light-duty columns. When used for domestic flooring and internal fittings, precautions should be taken to prevent black staining caused by contact with iron nails or screws.

Durability of Kapur Timber

Kapur has a class 2 durability rating for above-ground applications, ensuring reliable performance in exposed environments. It is resistant to decay and performs exceptionally well in outdoor settings, requiring no finishing to withstand rain and sun. However, its class 3 rating for in-ground use limits its effectiveness in applications involving prolonged contact with soil. While Kapur is not termite-resistant, it provides adequate resilience for many structural and decorative uses.

Workability of Kapur Timber

Kapur is moderately hard (rated 3) and machines well, though it can be challenging to work with once dried. The presence of silica in the wood can cause moderate blunting of cutting edges, especially where the grain is interlocked. Re-sawing and cross-cutting are easier when the timber is green, but more care is required for dried material to prevent breakage at the edges. Planing produces a rough surface, and pre-drilling is recommended near extremities to avoid splitting. Kapur takes nails, screws, and finishes such as stains, polish, and paint well, making it a versatile option for both structural and decorative projects.

Origin and Availability of Kapur Timber

Sourced from native forests in Malaysia and Indonesia, Kapur timber is available on a limited basis in Western Australia, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland. While its availability is restricted due to declining sourcing from old-growth rainforests, Kapur remains a sought-after material for its durability and aesthetic qualities.