Iroko wood versus teak – which one should you choose?

When exploring hardwood timber options, you will often find two distinct species which are very similar. This is the case with Iroko and Teak, two hardwoods with almost identical physical properties and an uncanny resemblance to each other. So, whether you are weighing them up for cladding or construction, which should you choose? Find out in this guide.

The Similarities of Iroko and Teak

When looking at Teak and Iroko timber, you would be hard-pressed to find many visual differences. Both are characteristically golden-brown, with a depth and richness of colour which makes them a popular choice for architectural projects.

Dive into their properties as hardwoods, and they also offer excellent longevity, as they both boast a durability classification of 1, which is the toughest it gets. This, theoretically, makes them suitable choices for a wide range of projects, from decking to marine applications, though (spoiler alert!) the importing of one of these timbers can actually be illegal in the UK.

Iroko vs Teak: Which is Better

While similar, there are key differences between Iroko and Teak which make choosing between them a lot easier. In terms of properties, you will find that Iroko is slightly lighter, so can be easier to transport and work. It also often comes with a more budget-friendly price tag than Teak, making it a no-brainer for cost-effective projects.

Where the two really diverge is in their sustainability and ethics. Iroko originates from West Africa, while Teak is from South Asia – particularly Myanmar. Unfortunately, because of the political situation in this area, Teak is classed as a conflict timber, meaning that purchasing it could help fund military action. In other words? It is an unethical and illegal choice of timber.

You should not even be able to buy Teak sourced from Myanmar, but that is not the case. Investigative journalists uncovered that this conflict timber is still on the market, and if you purchase Teak, it is very hard to know whether or not it is from Myanmar, so it’s best to steer clear. 

Harvesting Teak in Myanmar is also one of the leading causes of deforestation in the region, adding sustainability concerns to the list surrounding this particular species.

Sourcing Sustainable Iroko Timber

Unlike Teak, Iroko is not considered a conflict timber, but that does not mean it should be sourced carelessly. Iroko is sometimes targeted by illegal logging operations, which can cause significant environmental and social harm if left unchecked. That is why responsible sourcing is essential. 

Align your timber species choice with sustainable values by sourcing from responsibly managed, independently certified forests. At EcoChoice, we supply FSC and PEFC-certified sustainable timber, including Iroko – and other alternatives such as Cumaru too. This means that the forest managers growing and harvesting your Iroko timber comply with strict regulations, including allowing felled trees to replenish naturally and never overharvesting. 

All our Iroko timber is fully certified, giving you peace of mind that your project supports both people and planet.

Start an Iroko Timber Order

When it comes to Iroko vs Teak, there is only one winner – and it is very clearly Iroko. If you think this is the right choice for your next project, make sure you choose sustainably sourced Iroko with our help. Get in touch with our team today to start your order.