NYATOH (Sapotaceae family)
General
Nyatoh wood shows
variable natural durability in accordance to the species. The majority of
the species would fall into the moderately durable class but there are
species that are non-durable as well as those which are durable. The
non-durable timber (mostly sapwood) is subject to termite attacks and is
also susceptible to fungal attacks and therefore not suitable for the use of
constructions in direct ground contact. Nyatoh, however, is rarely
susceptible to powder-post beetle attacks.
When treated with appropriate
preservatives, like polyurethane coating, Nyatoh shows great
durability and has a service life time of some 25
in ground contact.
Appearance
The texture is moderately fine
to slightly coarse, with straight to shallowly interlocked and sometimes
wavy grain.
Physical properties and kiln drying
Most species of Nyatoh
falls into Strength Groups B and C (Burgess, 1958). Kiln Schedule E is
recommended for the lighter species of Nyatoh and 25 mm
thick boards take approximately 30 days to kiln-dry. Heavier species should
be kiln-dried using Schedule D or C.
Use
Nyatoh is a very
popular timber for furniture and solid doors and windows. It is suitable for
high class decorative works and interior finishing such as paneling,
mouldings and partitioning, interior and exterior siding boards. Other uses
include joinery, flooring, decking, staircases, balusters,, columns (light
duty), beams, rafters, joists (light duty), door and window frames.
