Hevea, also known as rubberwood, is a light and evenly structured hardwood sourced from Hevea brasiliensis, the rubber tree. With a Brinell hardness of around 30 N/mm², it sits between maple and oak and is well suited to stairs, treads, furniture and kitchen worktops. Its colour ranges from cream to light brown, with a fine, calm grain pattern.

Sustainability angle: Hevea is a by-product of rubber production. Rubber trees are tapped for latex for some 25–30 years and are only harvested afterwards, which means the timber does not require additional deforestation. For that reason, Hevea is widely FSC-certified and is considered particularly eco-friendly — more so than many European hardwoods, including oak.

HTS practice: We increasingly recommend Hevea as a budget-friendly and sustainable alternative to oak and beech, especially for clients with tight budgets or explicit environmental requirements. Typical tread thickness 40–45 mm, either finger-jointed or continuous lamella. Finish: natural oil brings out the calm texture; stain converts Hevea into oak- or walnut-like tones with ease.

Important caveat: Hevea is more moisture-sensitive than oak and should not be used in humid areas (bathrooms, unheated outdoor stairs). For normal indoor staircases in residential buildings, Hevea is an excellent choice. Maintenance: pH-neutral wood soap, re-oiling every 2–3 years. Related terms: Brinell hardness, FSC-certified, finger-jointed lamella, natural oil.

Hevea (Rubberwood) — Material species

Related terms

Hevea (Rubberwood) — Material species

Related terms