Outdoor Epoxy Tables: Exotic Woods and CIRAD Durability

Selecting Wood for Exterior and Covered-Patio Epoxy Tables

Building an exterior epoxy dining table or covered-patio river table introduces severe environmental challenges. Unlike climate-controlled dining rooms, outdoor spaces subject wood to cyclical humidity, moisture contact, fungal spores, and insect attack. A common woodworking misconception is that encapsulating timber in epoxy makes any species suitable for the outdoors. In practice, wood retains its physical tendencies beneath surface finishes. If moisture enters through micro-checks, screw penetrations, or finish breakdown, a non-durable wood will rot from within. To create an outdoor table that lasts, the wood itself must possess inherent biological resistance.

The French research organization CIRAD evaluates timber species for decay fungi resistance, termite resistance, and service use class. These ratings provide an objective roadmap for wood selection in exterior builds.

Why Sapwood Must Be Cut Away

Every natural durability classification published by CIRAD applies strictly to heartwood. Sapwood contains living cells, starches, and sugars that attract wood-boring insects and decay fungi. Regardless of how rot-resistant the heartwood of a tree may be, its sapwood is almost universally non-durable. Leaving live-edge sapwood on an outdoor epoxy slab creates a weak link where moisture can collect, encouraging fungal growth that undermines the epoxy-to-wood bond. For any covered patio or outdoor tabletop, all sapwood must be edged off or carved away prior to resin casting.

Why Epoxy Does Not Eliminate Decay Risk

Epoxy forms a rigid, hard-wearing polymer barrier, but outdoor temperature and humidity swings induce stress across the wood-epoxy interface. Clear coats also degrade under exterior weathering. Once water finds a pathway into the slab—even at the underside or around base-mounting hardware—non-durable timber absorbs that trapped moisture. Without drying ventilation, decay fungi multiply rapidly. An exterior table design requires a durable timber foundation rather than relying on resin to provide artificial preservation.

Exotic Woods Grouped by CIRAD Durability Class

CIRAD classifies the natural durability of timber against decay fungi into standardized tiers, correlating them with appropriate use classes.

Durability Class 1: Very Durable

Woods in this class exhibit maximum natural resistance against wood-decay fungi and frequently carry a Class 4 use rating, designating them as suitable for exterior conditions with ground or fresh water contact. Most also achieve a Class D (durable) rating against termites.

• Top African Species: African Padauk, Afzelia, Bilinga / Opepe, Congotali, Coula, Makoré, Moabi, Mukulungu, Niove, Okan, and Tali / Missanda.
• Top Neotropical Species: Abiurana vermelha, Angelim vermelho, Cumaru / Tonka, Itauba, Massaranduba, Preciosa, Rosewood Para, and Tatajuba.
• Top Asian Species: Billian, Ceylon Satinwood, Chengal, Giam, Pyinkado, and Sonokeling Rosewood.
• Class 3 Exceptions: Certain Class 1 woods, such as Mansonia, are restricted to Class 3 (outside, not in ground contact), making them better suited for covered patio settings rather than fully exposed elements.

Durability Class 1–2: Very Durable to Durable

Species straddling this threshold offer strong performance for covered exterior spaces, though several exhibit moderate termite resistance rather than full resistance.

• Class 4 Qualified: Bitis, Cabreuva, Merbau, Mubala, and Tamarindo (Groçai-rosa) can handle extreme moisture exposure, though Merbau and Mubala carry a Class M (moderately durable) rating against termites.
• Class 3 Qualified: Iroko and Atlas Cedar are rated for exterior use out of ground contact. Atlas Cedar carries Class M termite resistance, while Iroko attains Class D.

Durability Class 2: Durable

Durability Class 2 hardwoods provide dependable outdoor service, predominantly carrying a Class 3 use designation (exterior, out of ground contact). They perform well for covered porches, verandahs, and sheltered outdoor dining spaces.

• Class D Termite Resistance: Angelin, Angueuk, Ekki, Iatandza, Izombe, Louro vermelho, Muirapiranga / Bloodwood, and Resak. Ekki also reaches Use Class 4 suitability.
• Class M or Class S Termite Resistance: European Oak, European Sweet Chestnut, Freijo, Andok, and Basralocus carry Class M resistance. Scented Guarea (Bossé Clair) and Black Guarea (Bossé Foncé) are rated Class S (susceptible) to termites despite solid fungal resistance.
• Covered-Only Outliers: Brown sterculia is classified as Use Class 2 (inside or under cover with dampness possible), requiring protection from direct outdoor exposure.

Durability Classes 2 to 3 and Below: Use with Caution

Species such as Agba, Idigbo, Kosipo, and Red grandis show variable or reduced fungal resistance. Agba and Idigbo are categorized under Use Class 2, while Red grandis spans from Class 2 to Class 3 with Class S termite susceptibility. These woods are vulnerable in damp exterior environments and should be reserved for indoor tables.

Wood	Decay (fungi) resistance	Termite resistance	Use class
Abiurana vermelha	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
African Padauk	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Afzelia	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Alep	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Ananta	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Angelim vermelho	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Araracanga	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Atlas Cedar	Durability class 1-2 – very durable to durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Batibatra	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Bilinga / Opepe	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Billian	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Bitis	Durability class 1-2 – very durable to durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Cabreuva	Durability class 1-2 – very durable to durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Ceylon Satinwood	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Chengal	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Congotali	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Coula	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Cumaru / Tonka	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Difou	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Dina	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Douka	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Eveuss	Durability class 1 to 2 (v) – very durable to durable ("v" =	Class M – moderately durable	Class 4 (above-ground as defined in FD P 20-651) to class 3.2, subject to sound drainage design.
Eyoum	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Giam	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Grenadillo / Grenadille d’Afrique	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Idéwa	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Iroko	Durability class 1-2 – very durable to durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Itauba	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Macassar Ebony (Ebène Veinée d’Asie)	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Macucu de paca	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Makoré	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Manchiche	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Manilkara	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Manniballi	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Mansonia	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Massaranduba	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Mecrussé	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Merbau	Durability class 1-2 – very durable to durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Moabi	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Mora	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Moral	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Mubala	Durability class 1-2 – very durable to durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Muhuhu	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Mukulungu	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Niove	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Okan	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Ozouga	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Padauk amboina	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Preciosa	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Pucté	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Pyinkado	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Rosewood Para	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Sapucaia	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Sonokeling Rosewood	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Tali / Missanda	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Tamalan Rosewood	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Tamarindo (Groçai-rosa)	Durability class 1-2 – very durable to durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Tatajuba	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Vésámbata	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Vêne	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Wacapou	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Wallaba	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Wamara	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Wamba	Durability class 1-2 – very durable to durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Yellowheart	Durability class 1 – very durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Agba	Durability class 2 to 3 – durable to moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Amesclào	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Andok	Durability class 2 – durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Angelin	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Angueuk	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Basralocus	Durability class 2 – durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Black Guarea (Bossé Foncé)	Durability class 2 – durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Brown sterculia	Durability class 2 – durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Cardeiro / Cedrinho	Durability class 2 to 3 – durable to moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3.2, subject to sound drainage design
Catucaém / louro faia	Durability class 2 to 3 – durable to moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Cryptomeria	Durability class 2 (v) – durable ("v" = variable)	Class S – susceptible	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Ekki	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
European Oak	Durability class 2 – durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
European Sweet Chestnut	Durability class 2 – durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Freijo	Durability class 2 – durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Iatandza	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Idigbo	Durability class 2 to 3 – durable to moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Izombe	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Jacareuba	Durability class 2 – durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Kanda brun	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Kanda rose	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Kosipo	Durability class 2 to 3 – durable to moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Landa	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Limbali	Durability class 2 – durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 4 (not in direct contact with the ground as defined in FD P 20-651), subject to sound drainage design.
Louro vermelho	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Macacauba	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Melancieira	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Merawan	Durability class 2 to 3 – durable to moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Muirapiranga / Bloodwood	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Oboto	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Osanga	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact (in temperate regions)
Ovangkol	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Pakuri	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Piquiarana	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Red grandis	Durability class 2 to 4 – durable to poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 (inside or under cover, dampness possible) to class 3 (not in ground contact, outside)
Resak	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Scented Guarea (Bossé Clair)	Durability class 2 – durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Sepetir	Durability class 2 – durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Utile	Durability class 2 to 3 – durable to moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Wenge	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Yellow balau	Durability class 2 – durable	Class D – durable	Class 4 – in ground or fresh water contact
Abarco	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
African cordia	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
African walnut	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Alan / Alan-Batu	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Angelim amargoso	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Angelim pedra	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Ariella	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Ayan	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Baracara	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Beli	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Berlinia	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Bintangor	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Black wattle	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Brazil nut	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Cedrinho	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Cedrorana	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Cerejeira	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Cupiuba	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Dabema	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Dakama	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Danta	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Ekop	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Essia	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Etimoe	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
European Larch	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
European Walnut	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Garapa	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 3 – not in ground contact, outside
Gedu nohor	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Gerutu	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Gheombi	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Gombé towé	Durability class 3 (v) – moderately durable ("v" = variable)	Class S – susceptible	Class 3.2, subject to sound drainage design
Guariuba	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Haldu	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Jequitiba	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Kasai	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Kauri	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Kelat	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Keledang	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Kembang semangkok	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Keranji	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Keruing	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3.1 according to NF P 23-305 standard (December 2014). Class 3.2 may be considered with preservation
Lati	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Mambode	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Mandioqueira	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Manil / Manni	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Maritime Pine	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3.1, subject to sound drainage design (documentation leaflet FD P 20 651)
Melunak	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Mutenye	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Niangon	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Nyatoh	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Okwen	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Olon	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Olène	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Ossabel	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Ovoga	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Owui	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Pau marfim	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Pau mulato	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Peruvian Walnut	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Piquia	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Punah	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Pyinma	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Red balau	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Rengas	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Scots Pine	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 3.1, subject to sound drainage design (documentation leaflet FD P 20 651)
Senegal mahogany	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Snakewood	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Suren	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Tanimbuca	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Tasmanian oak	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Tchitola	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Timborana	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Uchy	Durability class 3 to 4 – moderately to poorly durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Zebrano	Durability class 3 – moderately durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Alumbi	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Angoa	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Aningeria	Durability class 4 à 5 – poorly to not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Benguet pine	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Curupixa	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Djedoe	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Durian	Durability class 4 à 5 – poorly to not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
European Silver Fir	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
European Spruce	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Goiabao	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Gombé rouge	Durability class 4 (v) – poorly durable ("v" = variable)	Class S – susceptible	Class 3.1, subject to sound drainage design (documentation leaflet FD P 20 651)
Longui	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Louro branco	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Maporokon	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Mengkulang	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 (inside or under cover, dampness possible) according to NF P 23-305 standard (December 2014)
Merkus pine	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Mersawa	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Mountain Pine (Hooked Pine)	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Musizi	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Nieuk	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Ogea	Durability class 4 à 5 – poorly to not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Ossimiale	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Perupok	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Quaruba	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Radiata Pine (European Plantation)	Durability class 4 à 5 – poorly to not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Safukala	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Sougué	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class D – durable	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
White seraya	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
White sterculia	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Yemane	Durability class 4 – poorly durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Abura	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
African canarium	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Alstonia	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Andoung	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Antiaris	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Anzèm / nténé	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Bodioa	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class D – durable	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Canon ball	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Capomo	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Ceiba	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Coconut wood	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Copaiba	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Cow tree	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Dalli	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Diania	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Dukali / amapa	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
East african bombax	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Ekoune	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Erimado	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
European Ash	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
European Beech	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
European Cherry	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
European Poplar	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Faveira	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Geronggang	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Gommier	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Guanacaste	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Igaganga	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Ilomba	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Jacaranda	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Jelutong	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Kapokier	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Kedondong	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Kumbi	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Kurokai	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Magas	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Mango (Machang)	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Marupa	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Merpauh	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Morototo	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Mumuli	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class M – moderately durable	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Odoko	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Ohia	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Onzabili	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Ossoko	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Ozigo	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 2 – inside or under cover (dampness possible)
Pashaco / paricá	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Patula pine	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Pterygota	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Pulai	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Rubberwood	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Sandbox	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Sesendok	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Simpoh	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Sterculia	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Sumauma	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Sycamore Maple (Great Maple)	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)
Tauari	Durability class 5 – not durable	Class S – susceptible	Class 1 – inside (no dampness)

Data compiled by BigEpoxy from individual CIRAD Tropix 7 technical sheets (average values for mature wood).

Outdoor and Covered-Patio Build Checklist

• Select heartwood only: Inspect every slab edge and remove all sapwood before building your form.
• Match species to exposure: Reserve Class 1 species for exposed outdoor settings and Class 2 species for covered patios with sound drainage.
• Seal all faces equally: Coat the tabletop top, bottom, and edges according to the resin maker’s data sheet to prevent unbalanced moisture absorption.
• Isolate fasteners: Coat screw holes and mounting slots with protective sealer so metal fasteners do not create pathways for trapped water.
• Provide positive drainage: Ensure patio tables are pitched or sheltered so rain does not pool continuously across wood-epoxy seams.

Sources

• CIRAD Tropix 7 technical sheets (index)

Published October 31, 2026. Sources are linked in the text.

Header image: original graphic by BigEpoxy.com.