Categories: Decks & Porches

Cambara Decking

When we built our new home I really struggled with what type of material to use for the decking on the front porch and the rear deck. There are so many choices between pressure treated, cedar, mahogany and composites. Then there is the issue of price vs. aesthetics. One of my carpenters suggested that I look into Cambara decking. Cambara is stiffer and denser than any decking produced in North America and is reported to be insect, except for termites, and decay resistant. Cambara decking is found in Central and South America.

The beauty of Cambara decking is the knot free straight grain. This material is very beautiful after it is sealed and closely resembles mahogany decking. The best part about Cambara decking is the price. Cambara costs about $3 a square foot. Mahogany costs about $5 and up while pressure treated is just about $2 a square foot. That makes Cambara a really attractive cost effective alternative when chosing your next decking material.
(My son and father-in-law helping out with the railing installation)

Todd Fratzel

I'm full time builder for a large construction company in New Hampshire. I run their design-build division that specializes in custom homes, commercial design-build projects and sub-divisions. I'm also a licensed civil and structural engineer with extensive experience in civil and structural design and home construction. My hope is that I can share my experience in the home construction, home improvement and home renovation profession with other builders and home owners. I'm also the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Tool Box Buzz. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, suggestions or you'd like to inquire about advertising on this site.

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View Comments

jack farady says:
August 9, 2015 at 1:55 pm
does Cambara decking age gray if no sealer is applied ???
- Todd Fratzel says:
  August 11, 2015 at 5:17 am
  yes.
Laura says:
June 10, 2017 at 9:32 pm
used woodyard on canberra, but in one year sun flaked off.
switched to penofin, but does not hold, and can not keep up with temperature, sun, rain, etc. requirements to apply. Have cleaned with penofin product and oiled with it, but does not hold ( last time cleaned actually removed oil).
Please help, decking looking a mess. I really love my porch, GETS A LOT OF SUN, use special shades for ultra violet light.
help help