- 4123 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421
- M-F 7:30am-4pm | Sat 10am-4pm
*Inventory fluctuates daily. Call to verify exact board foot quantities.
Because every board is unique, we do not sell directly online. Contact us to get pricing or have us pull the perfect stack for you.
Janka Rating: 1,410 lbf — Black Limba offers robust durability and resistance to wear, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications such as flooring and outdoor structures. Its hardness also provides excellent impact resistance.
Black Limba features a heartwood that ranges from dark brown to rich purplish-brown with occasional greenish or reddish undertones, while the sapwood is a pale yellow that is not distinctly separated. The wood exhibits a medium to coarse texture with an interlocked grain pattern that creates a dramatic figure, especially visible in quarter-sawn pieces. This interlocking grain also contributes to its characteristic ‘cogging’ effect during machining.
Black Limba can be challenging to work with due to its interlocked grain, which often causes tear-out during planing and sanding. It glues well with standard wood adhesives, but pre-drilling is recommended for end grain to prevent splitting. When staining, a pre-stain conditioner is advised to ensure an even finish, as the wood can absorb stain unevenly. Despite these considerations, Black Limba achieves a smooth finish with proper technique and is highly regarded for its ability to take a beautiful polish.
Common uses for Black Limba include high-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and outdoor decking due to its exceptional strength and resistance to rot and insect damage. It is also popular for veneer, millwork, and specialty items like musical instruments and decorative trim. Its durability makes it ideal for projects requiring long-term performance in both interior and exterior environments.
