Nova Ambara™ / Thermally Modified Ayous
Also known as Triplochiton scleroxylon, Obeche, West African Cedar, Abachi, Wawa, Sambawawa, Ambara™.
Malvaceae · Abundant in West Africa, and available with OLB and FSC certification from certified sustaible forestry.
Nova Ambara™, aka Thermally Modified Ayous, resembles a clear grade Aye & Btr Western Red Cedar in appearance. Ayous has an even cream color in its natural form but Nova's unique thermal modification process changes this to a caramel brown or tan color that is very appealing and lends itself well for a clear or walnut color stain. The thermal modification creates a grade that is extremely stable and durable - this is what makes Ambara the best choice in thermally modified wood. Ambara™ compares favorably with Western Red Cedar for use as trim boards, siding, cladding, pergolas and more. Ambara™ is a softer, light weight species making it ideal for installation on walls and ceilings. It can be nailed or screwed, and clips can be applied to create a complete hidden fastening look.
Appearance
Color. Light yellow color, sapwood not clearly demarcated. The wood becomes a caramel brown when thermally modified.
Grain. Straight or interlocked
Texture. Medium texture
Working & finishing
Ordinary mild steel recommmended. Easy to work and install. Peeling and slicing of non thermally modified Ayous are not known to have any issues.
Drying. Rapid with low risk of checking and distortion. No known of collapse or case hardening.
Durability
Naturally a Class 5 durability, indoor use only. Nova runs its thermal modification to a Thermo D schedule, which takes Ambara™ to Class 1 durability for exterior use. Comparable to clear all heart Western Red Cedar.
Common uses
Looking for Nova Ambara™ / Thermally Modified Ayous?
We stock and mill a wide range of species and grades. Tell us your sizes and we'll confirm availability and pricing — usually within one business day.