Views: 222 Author: Rebecca Publish Time: 2025-04-22 Origin: Site
Content Menu
>> Key Characteristics of Zebrawood
>> Factors Affecting Zebrawood Cost
● Comparison With Other Hardwoods
● Sustainability and Ethical Considerations
● How to Get the Best Price on Zebrawood
● FAQ
>> 1. How much does zebrawood cost per board foot?
>> 2. Is zebrawood a sustainable wood choice?
>> 3. What are the common uses of zebrawood?
>> 4. How does zebrawood compare to other exotic hardwoods in price?
>> 5. What should I consider when buying zebrawood lumber?
Zebrawood is a striking and exotic hardwood known for its distinctive striped appearance, durability, and versatility in woodworking projects. Its unique visual appeal, combined with its relative rarity and sourcing challenges, often makes it a premium-priced material. This comprehensive article explores the cost of zebrawood, factors influencing its price, its characteristics, uses, and how to make informed purchasing decisions. We will also discuss sustainability concerns and provide a detailed FAQ to help you understand this exotic wood better.
Zebrawood, scientifically known as *Microberlinia brazzavillensis*, is native to West Africa. It is prized for its golden brown color with pronounced dark brown or black streaks, giving it a zebra-like striped pattern. This exotic wood is used widely in luxury furniture, cabinetry, veneers, musical instruments, and decorative items due to its bold aesthetics and durability[1][3].
- Color and Grain: Golden brown with dark stripes resembling zebra patterns.
- Hardness: Janka hardness rating around 1,830 lbf (8,160 N), making it a hard and durable wood.
- Density: Approximately 50 lbs/ft⊃3; (805 kg/m³) dried weight.
- Workability: Moderately difficult to work with due to its interlocked grain and hardness.
- Sustainability: Listed as vulnerable due to population decline over 20% in recent generations[3].
Zebrawood is priced higher than many domestic hardwoods but is often more affordable than some other exotic woods like rosewood or ebony. Pricing varies depending on thickness, quality, quantity, and supplier.
- Typical 4/4 (1 inch) Zebrawood Lumber: Around $23.50 per board foot for small quantities; prices decrease with larger orders, dropping to about $17.50 per board foot for orders exceeding 1,000 board feet[2][4].
- 8/4 (2 inches) Zebrawood Lumber: Slightly higher, around $24.00 per board foot for small quantities, with discounts available for bulk purchases[2][4].
- Pre-cut Packs: Packs of 3/4" thick boards (various widths) can range from $22 to $40 depending on size and quantity[1][6].
- Lumber Packs: Larger packs (e.g., 10 board feet) can cost from $86 to over $300 depending on the grade and cut[1][7].
- Grade and Quality: Higher-grade lumber with fewer defects and better grain patterns commands premium prices.
- Quantity Discounts: Buying in bulk reduces the price per board foot significantly.
- Kiln-Dried vs. Rough: Kiln-dried lumber is more expensive but preferred for stability.
- Supplier and Shipping: Costs vary by supplier and shipping logistics, especially since zebrawood is imported from Africa[1][2][5].
| Wood Species | Approximate Price per Board Foot | Janka Hardness (lbf) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zebrawood (4/4) | $17.50 - $23.50 | 1,830 | Exotic, striking grain |
| White Oak | $9.00 - $12.00 | 1,360 | Domestic, versatile |
| Walnut | $10.00 - $15.00 | 1,010 | Popular for furniture |
| Cherry | $5.00 - $9.00 | 950 | Classic hardwood |
| Rosewood | $40.00+ | 1,200 - 2,440 | Very expensive exotic wood |
| Ebony | $50.00+ | 3,220 | Extremely costly and dense |
Zebrawood offers a balance of exotic beauty and moderate cost compared to pricier exotic woods like ebony or rosewood, making it a popular choice for those seeking uniqueness without exorbitant expense[3][5].
Zebrawood is favored for projects requiring a bold aesthetic and durability:
- Furniture: Tables, chairs, cabinets, and accent pieces.
- Musical Instruments: Guitar bodies and veneers.
- Veneers and Inlays: Decorative surfaces and marquetry.
- Turnery and Carvings: Handles, bowls, and artistic items.
- Boatbuilding and Tool Handles: Due to its strength and hardness[1][3].
Zebrawood is currently listed as vulnerable by the IUCN due to overharvesting and habitat loss, with populations declining by over 20% in recent generations[3]. Responsible sourcing is critical:
- Certified Suppliers: Look for FSC-certified or other environmentally responsible suppliers.
- Sustainable Harvesting: Support suppliers who adhere to strict trade and harvesting regulations.
- Environmental Impact: Demand for zebrawood drives the need for conservation efforts to ensure future availability[3].
1. Buy in Bulk: Larger orders reduce the cost per board foot.
2. Source Directly: Purchasing directly from mills or reputable wholesalers can lower costs.
3. Check Moisture Content: Kiln-dried lumber is more stable and worth the extra cost.
4. Understand Grading: Higher grades cost more but reduce waste and improve project quality.
5. Consider Alternatives: If cost or sustainability is a concern, look at similar woods like teak or walnut[5].
Zebrawood is a visually stunning and durable exotic hardwood that commands a premium price due to its unique appearance and limited availability. Prices typically range from $17.50 to $24 per board foot, with discounts for bulk purchases. Its uses span from luxury furniture to musical instruments, making it highly sought after by woodworkers and designers. However, sustainability concerns require buyers to prioritize ethically sourced lumber to help preserve this remarkable species for future generations. By understanding the factors influencing zebrawood pricing and quality, consumers can make informed decisions that balance cost, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility.
Zebrawood costs approximately $17.50 to $24.00 per board foot depending on thickness, grade, and quantity purchased. Bulk orders typically receive discounts[2][4].
Zebrawood is currently listed as vulnerable due to population declines. Sustainable sourcing from certified suppliers is essential to minimize environmental impact[3].
It is used for furniture, veneers, musical instruments, boatbuilding, carvings, and decorative inlays due to its durability and unique striped appearance[1][3].
Zebrawood is generally more affordable than highly expensive exotic woods like ebony or rosewood but costs more than common domestic hardwoods like oak or cherry[3][5].
Check the grade, moisture content (prefer kiln-dried), supplier credentials, and consider ordering in bulk for better pricing. Also, prioritize ethically sourced lumber to support sustainability[5].
[1] https://www.woodworkerssource.com/lumber/zebrawood.html
[2] https://www.bellforestproducts.com/exotic-lumber/prices/
[3] https://glamorwood.com/types-of-wood/zebra-wood/
[4] https://woodvendors.com/zebrawood-lumber/
[5] https://selecthardwoodslumber.com/blog/how-to-get-the-best-hardwood-prices-in-2025
[6] https://barringtonhardwoods.com/collections/zebrawood-lumber-boards
[7] https://kjpselecthardwoods.com/collections/zebrawood
[8] https://ocoochhardwoods.com/lumber/zebrawood/
[9] https://buy.advantagelumber.com/collections/interior-wood/products/12-4-quarter-sawn-zebrawood-lumber-fl
[10] https://woodnshop.net/hardwood-lumber-imported/zebrawood/
[11] https://crlumber.com/product-category/figured-lumber/zebrawood/
[12] https://www.woodworkerssource.com/zebrawood/zebrawood-44-lumber.html
[13] https://www.cookwoods.com/products/zebrawood-s872
[14] https://www.fantastic-floor.com/product/zebrawood-natural-engineered-smooth-select-better-5-16-x-3-x-1-4/
[15] https://www.bellforestproducts.com/zebrawood/
[16] https://www.groffslumber.com/exotic-woods-available
[17] https://tropicalforestproducts.com/zebra-wood/
[18] https://www.advantagelumber.com/zebrawood.htm
[19] https://exotic-woods.com/shop/zebrawood-2/
[20] https://www.rockler.com/zebrawood-by-the-piece-3-4-thickness
