7 Uses for Mahogany Wood

Mahogany Wood is the most versatile and durable of all the hardwoods; it is a dark, red brown colored tropical wood which is resistant to insects and rot, has an attractive grain and polishes to a beautiful high sheen. It is not an unduly expensive wood and because of its versatility it can be used anywhere or with anything; mahogany wood that comes from South America does not have such a tight grain as does the wood that comes from Africa and is used mostly in interior design.

1 - Yachts and Boats 

African wood is used for the exterior of yachts and boats because this wood has an interlocking grain which makes it resistant to water damage and seepage. South American mahogany is used to beautify the interior and give it a real elegant look.

2 - Musical Instruments

Some musical instruments like drums, guitars, violins and grand pianos make use of mahogany because the wood gives a warm sound. It is also used in stereo headphones and phonograph record cartridges.

3 - Writing Pens

South American mahogany is used to fashion writing pens that are of a highly polished, reddish brown color. These pens can be a really exclusive gift you can give yourself or to someone you esteem.

4 - Furniture

Mahogany furniture, both antiques and reproduction pieces, is much sought after as it is the epitome of elegance and grace. It does not come cheap, but furniture which has only an outer covering of mahogany (plywood) does not cost as much. Sometimes mahogany is used for out door furniture such as tables and chairs; but these have to be kept away from the sun and rain as heat and water can damage the wood and the finish. Teak is more suitable for outdoor use as it is more weather resistant.

5 - Floors

Mahogany can be the ideal hardwood for floors as it is so resistant and can take heavy traffic. However, it tends to darken with age so if you don’t want such dark floors in your house choose a light stain to begin with or go for another wood that is lighter in color and is also durable such as oak.

6 - Billiard and Pool Cues

If you are thinking of getting a custom made cue, both African and South American mahogany is a good wood to use because the closely woven, tight interlocking grain makes a cue that is as straight as a die.

7 - Doors

Mahogany interior and entry doors give any setting a glamorous look and the wood easily holds and sustains glue, nails and hardware, while being a perfect candidate for stains. A mahogany door will never warp; it seasons well, holding its frame and durability, making it also ideal for an exterior door.

Mahogany items will last a lifetime, the wood ages gracefully and its stability is retained; to keep their pristine beauty, mahogany pieces have to be maintained and looked after with care and consistency. Out door mahogany will need more looking after than indoor pieces; all pieces will require regular dusting, waxing and polishing to keep looking good as on the day they came out of the manufacturer’s workshop.