Tigerwood Decking: Plan Delivery, Storage and Jobsite Access

The Unique Characteristics of Tigerwood Decking

Tigerwood (Astronium graveolens), also known as Goncalo Alves, is a dense exotic hardwood originating from Brazil. It is characterized by its golden-brown hues and distinctive dark brown streaks, giving it a dramatic, striped appearance. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Tigerwood is known for its durability, resistance to termites and moisture, and a natural water repellency due to its oils.

With an air dry density of 4.92 lbs/bf and a specific gravity of 0.91, Tigerwood is one of the densest hardwoods available. This density translates to significant weight per board. For example, a single 1" x 5.5" x 16 ft board of Tigerwood can weigh approximately 36 pounds. This weight factor is crucial when planning for delivery, unloading, and moving materials around your jobsite.

The material is typically supplied Kiln Dried (KD) in profiles such as 5/4"x6" (actual 1" x 5.5") and available in lengths ranging from 3 to 24 feet. These dimensions and the inherent density necessitate careful handling to avoid injury or damage to the material before installation.

Tigerwood's hardness, while beneficial for its lifespan, also means it requires professional-grade tools for cutting and pre-drilling during installation. This underscores the need for a well-organized and accessible jobsite where tools and materials can be safely managed.

Coordinating Delivery and Unloading

Before your Tigerwood decking arrives, confirm the delivery details with your supplier. This includes the estimated delivery date and time window, the type of delivery vehicle (e.g., flatbed truck, box truck), and the method of unloading. Some deliveries may include a forklift for unloading, while others may require manual offloading.

Consider the access points to your property. Are there narrow driveways, overhead power lines, or low tree branches that could obstruct a large delivery truck? Ensure there is ample clear space for the truck to maneuver and for materials to be safely unloaded without blocking traffic or access. If a forklift is used, it will need a firm, level surface.

Upon arrival, carefully inspect the shipment for any visible damage or discrepancies against your order. Note any issues on the delivery receipt before signing. It is important to verify the quantity, profile, and lengths of the Tigerwood boards. Any claims for damaged or missing material are generally easier to resolve if documented at the time of delivery.

Selecting Your Storage Location

Choosing the right storage location is vital for protecting your Tigerwood decking. The primary goal is to keep the wood dry, flat, and out of direct sunlight and extreme weather. Hardwoods, especially exotic species, can be susceptible to movement (warping, cupping, checking) if not stored properly.

A covered, level area such as a garage, shed, or under a sturdy tarp in a well-ventilated spot is ideal. Avoid storing the wood directly on the ground; use stickers or dunnage (small pieces of wood) to elevate the bundles, allowing for air circulation underneath and preventing moisture absorption from the ground. Ensure these stickers are evenly spaced every 18-24 inches along the length of the boards to maintain flatness.

Stack the decking bundles neatly and securely to prevent them from shifting or falling. If storing outdoors, even under a tarp, ensure the tarp is secured to prevent wind from dislodging it and that it allows for some airflow to prevent condensation. Avoid placing materials in areas prone to standing water or excessive humidity.

Planning Jobsite Access and Material Staging

Efficient jobsite access and material staging can significantly impact the installation process. Consider the path from your storage location to the actual deck site. Are there obstacles like landscaping, stairs, or narrow gates that will make moving long, heavy boards difficult? Plan the most direct and safest route.

Stage materials as close to the work area as possible without obstructing construction or creating tripping hazards. If your project is elevated or involves multiple levels, consider how you will safely lift and transport the Tigerwood boards. This might involve temporary ramps, hoists, or additional labor.

Maintain a clear and organized jobsite. Keep areas around cutting stations free of debris and ensure there's enough space for safe operation of power tools. Having a designated area for cut-offs and waste will also improve efficiency and safety.

Worked Example: Staging for a 300 sq ft Deck

Let's consider a hypothetical 300 square foot deck project using 1" x 5.5" Tigerwood decking.

If the material is ordered in a mix of 12-foot and 16-foot lengths, this translates to roughly 41 boards of 16-foot length or 55 boards of 12-foot length. A typical bundle might contain 5-7 boards. This means you could receive 8-11 bundles.

For a project of this size, here’s a staging plan:

1. **Delivery Point:** Identify a level, paved area near the street or driveway, wide enough for a delivery truck (e.g., 10 ft wide by 30 ft long). This area should be clear of overhead obstructions and allow for a forklift if provided. If manual unloading is required, ensure at least two people are available to help manage the weight of individual boards.

2. **Primary Storage:** Locate a covered space, such as a garage or a secure, dry section of the backyard. This area should be at least 18 feet long to accommodate the longest boards. Lay down 4x4 or 2x4 lumber as sleepers, spaced every 2 feet, to keep the decking off the ground. Stack the bundles flat and evenly on these sleepers, ensuring good air circulation around them. Secure the stack with straps if necessary to prevent movement.

3. **Jobsite Staging:** As needed, move smaller quantities of boards (e.g., one bundle at a time) from primary storage to a secondary staging area closer to the deck build site. This secondary area should also be level, dry, and protected from direct sun if possible. Keep this area organized to avoid clutter. For an elevated deck, consider a temporary ramp or a system to safely lift boards to deck level as they are needed for cutting and fastening.

Before you order

• Confirm delivery date, time, vehicle type, and unloading method with your supplier.
• Verify clear access for the delivery truck (driveway width, overhead clearances).
• Inspect all materials upon arrival for damage or discrepancies; note issues on the delivery receipt.
• Identify a suitable, covered, and level storage area for the decking materials.
• Gather dunnage/stickers to elevate decking bundles off the ground for air circulation.
• Plan the safest and most efficient path for moving materials from storage to the jobsite.
• Ensure the jobsite has clear, organized areas for cutting and working.
• Consider labor needs for unloading and moving heavy Tigerwood boards.
• Protect stored materials from direct sun, rain, and excessive humidity.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

Questions to help you decide

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