- 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.
Purpleheart has a Janka hardness rating of 2,200 lbf, placing it among the hardest commercially available woods. This high rating ensures excellent wear resistance and impact durability, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications like flooring and structural components. However, its hardness can challenge woodworking tools, requiring sharp equipment and careful technique during cutting and shaping.
Freshly cut Purpleheart displays a vivid, deep purple to violet color that gradually fades to a warm brown or reddish-brown with exposure to light and air. The wood features a straight to interlocked grain with a medium to fine texture, often showcasing dramatic figure variations including streaks, knots, and occasional ribbon figure. These natural patterns enhance its visual interest, creating a distinctive and luxurious appearance that stands out in any finished piece.
Due to its high density and hardness, Purpleheart can be challenging to machine, often blunting tools quickly and causing tear-out if not properly maintained. It glues well with standard wood adhesives and accepts stains and finishes beautifully, though a pre-stain conditioner is recommended for even color absorption. Sanding requires progressive grits to avoid scratches, and while it holds fasteners well, pre-drilling is advisable to prevent splitting. Overall, careful handling and sharp tools yield excellent results.
Common uses for Purpleheart include high-end furniture, cabinetry, flooring, decorative trim, and musical instruments. It is also popular for specialty items such as knife handles, tool handles, and architectural millwork where its striking color and strength are showcased. Additionally, its natural resistance to decay makes it suitable for outdoor applications like decking and outdoor furniture, though prolonged exposure may cause color fading.
