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Nova Ambara™ Thermally Modified Ayous

Kiln-dried woods & exotics

Nova Ambara™ Thermally Modified Ayous

Also known as Ayous, 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

Because Ambara™ is thermally modifiedit can be used for both exterior and interior uses. Typical applications include trim boardsceilingssoffitsand siding. Non-modified Ayous should never be used outdoors. Ambara is for siding and paneling only — it is not suitable for deckingstair treads or any structural use. Thermal modification buys durability and stabilitynot load-bearing strength.

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.

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Nova Ambara™ Thermally Modified Ayous reviews

★★★★★5.0· 1 review
★★★★★
I removed the old teak top and chair arm caps (both made from 1x2" slats) and replaced them with a custom designed & built top and arm caps made from Ayous (from others). As shown in the photos, the ayous "came alive" when I applied your ExoShield product. I followed the great directions and found the work easy. The finish is gorgeous, smooth and durable. I spent a lot of time researching the various wood finish options and am very happy that I settled on yours. My application will be a great test site for the UV protection your finish will provide as I am in South Florida with my patio set getting direct sun every day. I'll keep you posted on the results. Finally, I'd like to acknowledge Zach Wich, your S.E. US sales rep for interest in my project and invaluable assistance in my selection of your product.
Fran · Miramar, FL · Ayous Outdoor Dining Table
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