Published: 24/03/25 By: Mike Bekin
If you have been keeping an eye on UK timber suppliers, you might have noticed a trend: Iroko timber is getting a lot of attention. While still not quite catching up to Oak and Pine, it is close on their heels! So, we thought we would take a little look at why it is so popular, with a focus on the growing demand on Iroko for outdoor projects. Let’s jump straight into it.
What is Iroko?
Iroko is a hardwood timber species native to Africa. It is typically grown on the West Coast, though you will also be able to find the Iroko tree across Africa now. Ghana, Mozambique, Angola and Tanzania are all hot spots for this large hardwood tree.
You might also hear Iroko referred to as African teak (though it is definitely not part of the teak family!).
Why Is Iroko a Popular Choice for Outdoor Projects?
From decking to outdoor furniture, at EcoChoice we receive a lot of interest in and orders for Iroko timber. There are a number of reasons it is becoming a UK construction go-to, including:
Incredible Durability
Iroko brings a whole lot of natural durability to the table. It is very resistant to common timber problems, such as rot and insect infestation, and weathers beautifully. In other words? It is a great choice for low-maintenance outdoor constructions.
It is a Beautiful Timber
It is hard to ignore the aesthetic appeal of Iroko. The reason it is so often called African teak is because it has that rich, deep colour variation for which Teak is so well-known. Iroko can be golden and warm, with red undertones to paler yellow hues which can be enhanced by specific finishing techniques. It brings a bright, contemporary aesthetic to outdoor spaces which our clients love.
Superior Versatility
If you have an outdoor construction project in mind, Iroko is likely to suit it well. It is the perfect choice for:
Although it is the first choice for outdoor furniture such as park benches, it is also a popular choice for boat building and can be even used in marine projects with ease.
It’s Easy to Work With
Despite its superior durability and strength, Iroko remains fairly easy to work with, a sweet spot which makes it the favourite among joineries. While you might need some experience constructing with timber to get the most out of your Iroko boards and beams, you will be able to achieve precision cuts and smooth finishes without being a top-notch professional.
Find FSC®-Certified Iroko Timber
As Iroko is a tropical hardwood, it is vital that it is sourced responsibly in order to conserve our world’s tropical forests. This is where we come in.
At EcoChoice, we bring sustainably sourced, FSC-certified Iroko to UK construction projects. Whether you are building a deck in your garden or selecting timber for a large commercial space, make the right choice with EcoChoice’s Iroko. Get in touch to start your order today.
