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Frequently Asked Questions
What mahogany products does Windsor Plywood carry?
Windsor Plywood carries genuine mahogany hardwood lumber in select grades for furniture, cabinetry, and interior millwork. African mahogany (Khaya spp.) is the most commonly available species and is the primary commercial mahogany in today's market. Honduran or genuine mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) is available subject to CITES documentation requirements. Plywood with mahogany or lauan face veneers is also available.
What are the main characteristics of mahogany?
Mahogany has a rich reddish-brown colour, straight to slightly interlocked grain, a moderate hardness of approximately 900 Janka (African mahogany), excellent stability with minimal movement after drying, and outstanding workability. It has been the premier furniture-making hardwood for European and North American craftsmen for centuries due to these characteristics and its attractive appearance.
What is the difference between African mahogany and Honduran mahogany?
Honduran mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) is the true or genuine mahogany historically used in fine furniture and is now CITES Appendix II listed, restricting but not prohibiting trade. African mahogany (Khaya spp.) is the dominant commercial species and is a close relative that performs similarly in most furniture and cabinetry applications. African mahogany is more consistent in availability and pricing. Both are excellent materials.
Is mahogany suitable for exterior applications?
Genuine Honduran mahogany has good natural durability and has historically been used for exterior boat building and outdoor furniture. African mahogany is less durable outdoors. For most exterior applications in Canadian conditions, cedar, pressure-treated lumber, or composite materials are more practical choices than mahogany. Mahogany is primarily an interior furniture and cabinetry species in current practice.
What dimensions of mahogany lumber does Windsor Plywood carry?
Windsor Plywood carries mahogany in select lumber grades with thicknesses from 4/4 to 8/4 and widths varying by current stock. Availability of Honduran mahogany may require advance ordering due to CITES documentation requirements. Contact your local Windsor Plywood branch to confirm current mahogany availability and discuss your project requirements.