Both iroko and oak are two high performing types of hardwood that are great for a number of projects and purposes. Due to their similar properties, comparisons are often made between the two of them, there may be occasions where either is unavailable for your project and this is when it is good to know the differences between iroko and oak.
Uses of Iroko and Oak timber
As mentioned previously, iroko and oak are suitable for a wide range of projects, their main uses include:
Iroko:
- Fencing
- Flooring
- Decking
- Interior & exterior fencing
Oak:
- Fencing
- Flooring
- Decking
- Interior & exterior fencing
- Outdoor structures
Appearance of Iroko and Oak timber
Iroko appearance:
Iroko timber starts off as a light golden colour which then over time darkens to a richer bronze shade. Iroko has an interlocking grain giving it an attractive and unique appearance making it a sought after choice of timber.
Oak appearance:
On the other hand, the appearance of oak can vary greatly depending on the type of species that is being used. American White Oak tends to have a more pale light tan colour whereas European Oak’s appearance is usually chosen for its golden brown hues. Unlike Iroko, Oak also has a straight grain.
Durability of Iroko and Oak
Iroko durability:
Iroko has an abundance of naturally present resins that mean it has a high resistance to rot and is also effective at repelling insect attacks. Due to these characteristics, Iroko timber is regularly used for high intensity jobs such as canal gates and boats.
Oak durability:
Similarly to iroko, oak is also very durable in nature with a similar resistance to insect attacks and rot due to the naturally occurring resins and oils present. Again, this wood is therefore regularly used in harsh conditions.
Both iroko and oak will slowly weather to a silver/grey if left untreated and outside, if this appearance is not desired then it can be prevented with a quality wood preservative.
Environmental impact
Wood is generally one of the most eco-friendly building materials on the market. During the planting and growth of the timber, large amounts of carbon dioxide are absorbed from the atmosphere.
To ensure that you are choosing the most environmentally friendly option, you should check directly with the supplier to find out their sourcing process and any environmental pledges that they have.
Some may argue that oak is kinder to the environment purely because it can be more widely grown, however any responsible timber merchant will ensure all of the species within their warehouses are sustainably sourced.
Choosing between Iroko and Oak
If you are starting a new project that requires timber and are unsure of which wood to choose, it is recommended to speak to a wood supplier or other expert as they will be able to tell you which timber will be best for your specific project and why it is the best choice.
