Hevea wood, also known as rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis). The wood is moderately durable and stable, making it suitable for furniture and flooring.
Hevea wood comes from a medium-large deciduous tree growing to a height of 75–100 ft (23–30 m). It is native to Asia, Africa, and South America and is commonly cultivated for rubber production.
Choosing the right wood for flooring is a challenging task. Since floors are subject to daily wear and tear, hardwood is the first choice for flooring. Hevea wood is one of the ideal hardwoods used for high quality flooring.
Is Hevea Wood Good For Flooring?
Yes, Hevea wood is good for flooring because it is durable, hard, and has a decent light appearance. Hevea wood is well-suited for moderate traffic, such as living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. It may not be a good choice for high traffic and humidity.
Characteristics and Properties of Hevea Wood
Hardness and Durability
Hevea wood is a medium-density hardwood with a Janka hardness value of 960 lbf (4,280 N) and an average dry weight of 37 lbs/ft3 (595 kg/m3). It is one of the most durable woods used for flooring. Hevea hardwood flooring can last for 15 to 20 years under regular maintenance.
Color and Grain Patterns
Hevea heartwood is light to medium brown, and the sapwood is light brown. Sometimes it isn’t easy to differentiate between heartwood and sapwood. Like many other hardwoods, Hevea also tends to darken slightly with age.
Generally, it has a straight grain, a uniform grain pattern, and an open texture.
Workability
Hevea Wood is easy to work with and does not require much experience to work with it. It responds well to hand and machine tools. Wood has a high moisture content, so when it is drying, there are chances that the wood may change from its original shape. So choose well-dried hevea wood for woodworking.
It accepts stains and glues very well and gives excellent results after finishing.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
Hevea Wood is sustainable and not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List. Using it does not affect the environment.
The Cost of Installation
Hevea hardwood flooring is not very expensive to install compared to other hardwood flooring such as oak, walnut, or hickory. Hevea hardwood flooring can range from $3.99 / sqft to $6.99 / sqft. Contact your nearest professional flooring contractors for exact prices. Remember, installation cost depends on the quality of the wood and your location.
Pros of Using Hevea Wood for Flooring
Attractive Appearance
The main reason for choosing Hevea Wood flooring would have been its light and uniform color. Light-colored floors have the ability to brighten any room and make rooms appear larger. We can easily darken its color through stains if we require.
Affordability
Hevea hardwood flooring is affordable compared to the other hardwood options. It is a cost-effective choice for those who want the look of hardwood without the higher price tag.
Durability
One of the biggest concerns for floors is dealing with everyday wear and tear and scratches from pets, which can cause damage over time. The wood of Hevea is hard enough to withstand wear and tear. It can last a couple of decades.
Easy to Work
Hevea Wood is often considered one of the easiest and beginner-friendly. It is lightweight and low-density, making it easy to cut, carve, sand, and shape using basic hand tools.
Eco-friendliness and sustainability
Hevea Wood is completely safe; it will not cause health or allergy problems.
Cons of Using Hevea Wood for Flooring
Not for Outdoor
Hevea wood is unsuitable for outdoor applications because it is not naturally resistant to moisture and weather. It can swell, warp, or even develop mold if exposed to excessive moisture.
Prone to Denting and Scratching
Hevea wood is durable but not as hard as some popular hardwoods. This means it is more prone to denting and scratching, especially in high-traffic areas.
Warping and twisting
Hevea wood is highly sensitive to warping and twisting when the environment changes.
Comparing Hevea Wood to Other Flooring Options
Comparison with Popular Hardwoods (e.g., oak, maple, walnut)
Hevea wood is used for flooring, but it is less popular than oak, maple, and walnut flooring, as it is more durable, rot- and weather-resistant than Hevea wood. Hevea wood flooring is more budget-friendly than oak, walnut, and maple.
Comparison with Engineered Wood Flooring
Engineered wood flooring is highly durable and stable and comes in a wide range of color and grain options. Engineered wood flooring is generally more moisture-resistant than Hevea wood.
In some cases, Engineered Wood Flooring may be cheaper than Hevea flooring. But we do not get real natural grain texture in engineered wood flooring.
Tips for Maintaining Hevea Wood Floors
Hevea wood flooring requires regular care to keep it durable and long-lasting. Here are some tips to help you maintain your Hevea wood floors:
- Regular cleaning: Vacuum or sweep the floor regularly to remove dirt, dust, and moisture. A soft-bristled broom or vacuum cleaner can be used.
- Mopping gently: Clean your floor with a lightly damp mop or cloth. Avoid excessive watering, as excess moisture can damage the floor.
- Avoid acidic cleaners: Avoid using acidic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the finish and color of your floor.
- Protect From Scratches: Use felt pads for furniture legs to avoid scratches when moving furniture. Avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor.
- Limit sun exposure: Constant direct sunlight can discolor the floor over time. Use curtains, blinds, or UV-blocking window film to reduce sun exposure.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your softwood flooring for signs of wear, scratches, or areas that need attention. Address any problems immediately to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hevea wood can be great for flooring if taken care of regularly. It is a light-colored wood that is moderately durable and stable. Its affordability, sustainability, and versatility in design are all attractive factors for those seeking budget-friendly, eco-conscious flooring solutions.
While Hevea Wood Flooring can’t match the durability of Engineered Wood Flooring, it offers an accessible entry point for those looking for the aesthetic of real wood without spending a lot of money.