Utile or Sipo is an African hardwood known for its deep red colour and rot-resistant nature, making it ideal for exterior projects. It is widely used as an alternative to Genuine Mahogany. Like many tropical African woods, Utile is rated durable to moderately durable for rot and insect resistance. The names 'Utile' and 'Sipo' refer to the same species - both are used with equal frequency. In the same genus as Sapele, the two species are cousins and can be hard to tell apart, which makes Utile an excellent alternative to Sapele as well as to Mahogany.
Utile is used as a more affordable alternative to Genuine Mahogany and is one of the most popular species in our yard. Pricing fluctuates either side of Sapele depending on availability and season, and is heavily influenced by the popularity of Sapele while Utile itself remains relatively unknown. The working characteristics are probably the closest to Genuine Mahogany of any African species - a homogenous grain with ease of carving and shaping.
Utile still has the interlocking grain typical of African species, giving it an alternating light and dark banded look. Although less intense than African Mahogany's bands, Utile is much easier to work and produces less tearing - so it is often chosen over other African Mahogany alternatives, especially for projects that require a clear coat or stain. Used as exterior siding it gives uniform colour and excellent weather resistance.
Utile's hardness sits between African Mahogany and Genuine Mahogany - again making it a strong Genuine Mahogany alternative. Utile was previously hard to acquire and listed as vulnerable, but responsible planting and forestry have dramatically increased availability. We still take great care in sourcing to acquire only the best specimens, as quality varies by import region.
Indicative values from The Wood Database, AHEC species data and USDA Wood Handbook (FPL-GTR-190). Actual values vary by origin and growing conditions.
| Character | Green | Dry | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bending Strength (MOR) | 11,100 | 15,270 | psi |
| Crushing Strength | 5,430 | 7,772 | psi |
| Stiffness (MOE) | 1,440 | 1,584 | 1,000 psi |
| Hardness (Janka) | - | 1,260 | lbf |
| Specific Gravity | 0.53 | 0.66 | - |
| Weight | 52 | 40 | lbs/ft³ |
| Radial Shrinkage | - | 5 | % |
| Tangential Shrinkage | - | 6 | % |
Other dimensions, grades and certifications available on request.
The go-to mahogany alternative - ribbon-stripe figure, dense and stable.
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Golden-brown West African hardwood - Class 1 durable, an economical teak alternative.
Share thickness, grade, volume and destination port. We will revert with mill options, lead times and indicative pricing within one working day.
