Moulded exotic wood handrail
Moulded handrail in solid Sipo 50x50 mm (African exotic wood) with 21x5 mm groove. Dense wood (~640 kg/m³), pinkish-brown hue, fine grain — naturally resistant to moisture, suitable for indoor and sheltered outdoor use. Available in 4 lengths: 150, 195, 250 and 295 cm. Supplied raw, to be oiled or stained before outdoor use. Wall brackets compatible with the 21x5 mm groove and fixings to be ordered separately. Stainless steel fixings required for outdoor use.
Moulded exotic wood handrail 50x50 mm – dense exotic wood, indoor and sheltered outdoor use
This moulded handrail in solid exotic wood (Entandrophragma utile) features a square section of 50x50 mm and a 21x5 mm groove for fixing to standard wall brackets. Exotic wood is a dense African tropical timber (~640 kg/m³), with a characteristic pinkish-brown tone and a fine, regular grain. Its dimensional stability is good and its natural resistance to fungi makes it suitable for indoor use as well as sheltered outdoor use.
The moulded section softens the angles of the square profile and improves grip comfort. Exotic wood presents a regular surface after machining, which facilitates the application of a uniform finish. In outdoor settings exposed to direct rain, an exotic wood oil or UV wood stain is essential to limit greying and the risk of surface cracking.
Four lengths are available: 150, 195, 250 and 295 cm. Fixing brackets and fixings must be sourced separately, compatible with the 21x5 mm groove. For outdoor use, opt for stainless steel fixings.
Main characteristics
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Solid exotic wood (Entandrophragma utile) – African tropical timber |
| Section | 50 x 50 mm moulded |
| Groove | 21 x 5 mm – compatible with standard brackets |
| Available lengths | 150 cm, 195 cm, 250 cm, 295 cm |
| Density | ~640 kg/m³ – dense wood, good mechanical resistance |
| Brackets and fixings | Not supplied – 21x5 mm groove, stainless steel recommended for outdoor use |
| Use | Indoor and sheltered outdoor use – finish mandatory for fully exposed outdoor use |
| Finish | Raw wood – exotic wood oil, UV wood stain or saturator recommended |
Key points
- ✓ Dense exotic wood (~640 kg/m³): superior natural resistance to European species for sheltered outdoor use
- ✓ Dual use: interior staircases, covered terrace railings, gallery or pergola balustrades
- ✓ Pinkish-brown tone: fine and regular grain, uniform surface after machining, enhanced by a clear oil finish
- ✓ Standard 21x5 mm groove: compatible with common wall brackets available separately
- ✓ 4 lengths available: from 150 to 295 cm to suit common staircase configurations
Installation advice
Select brackets compatible with the 21x5 mm groove. Position them at regular intervals, with a maximum spacing of 80 cm between two support points. Install the handrail at a height of between 80 and 100 cm from the nosing or finished floor level.
Exotic wood is a dense timber that benefits from pre-drilling before screwing, particularly near the ends, to avoid splitting. For outdoor use, always use minimum A2 stainless steel fixings – ordinary steel screws corrode quickly on contact with moisture and the tannins in exotic wood. Apply the finish before installation if possible, covering the cut ends as well.
Maintenance and protection
Indoors, a surface finish improves resistance to dirt. In sheltered or exposed outdoor settings, protection is essential. Recommended options for exotic wood:
- Exotic wood oil: penetrates the fibres, nourishes the wood, preserves the natural tone, renewed every 1 to 2 years
- Exotic wood saturator: enhanced protection against moisture and UV, durability 2 to 3 years
- Tinted exterior wood stain: protective film, colour possible, durability 2 to 4 years depending on exposure
Without a finish, exotic wood gradually greys outdoors – a purely aesthetic phenomenon that does not affect the wood's resistance. An annual clean with clear water and light brushing is sufficient to prepare the surface before re-oiling.
WoodUp tip
Before purchasing: compatible with 21x5 mm groove brackets. Exotic woods are hard – pre-drilling recommended, stainless steel screws advised. Wall fixings not supplied. Treat with exotic wood oil before installation. Indoor and sheltered outdoor use depending on the species.
Frequently asked questions
What is exotic wood and why is it used for outdoor handrails?
Exotic wood (Entandrophragma utile) is an African tropical timber classified for sheltered outdoor use without preservative treatment. Its density (~640 kg/m³) and natural tannins give it good resistance to fungi and wood-boring insects. It is one of the most common exotic species used in French joinery for staircases, balustrades and covered outdoor structures.
Can exotic wood be used fully outdoors without shelter?
In fully exposed outdoor settings, a protective finish is mandatory for exotic wood. Without protection, the wood will grey within a few months and surface cracks may appear due to humidity-dryness cycles. An exotic wood oil or UV saturator, renewed every 1 to 2 years, provides lasting protection even in fully exposed outdoor conditions.
What is the difference between exotic wood and douglas fir for an outdoor handrail?
Exotic wood (~640 kg/m³) is denser and harder than douglas fir (~530 kg/m³), making it more resistant to abrasion and impact. Its warm pinkish-brown tone contrasts with the lighter reddish-brown of douglas fir. Douglas fir is lighter and easier to work with. Both are suitable for sheltered outdoor use – exotic wood offers superior durability but is generally more expensive.
What fixings should be used for an outdoor exotic wood installation?
Always use minimum A2 stainless steel fixings (A4 in marine or coastal environments). The acidic tannins present in exotic woods accelerate corrosion of ordinary or galvanised steel screws, leaving irreversible black or rust stains on the wood. Stainless steel prevents this and ensures the mechanical integrity of the assembly over time.
Can this handrail be cut to an intermediate length?
Yes. Exotic wood can be cut with a circular saw fitted with a fine-tooth blade. Mark the cut with a square beforehand for a clean right angle. After cutting, sand the end grain with 120-grit sandpaper and immediately apply a coat of oil or saturator to the cut – the exposed ends absorb moisture more quickly than the machined faces.
Is the exotic wood sourced from sustainably managed forests?
Exotic wood can be PEFC or FSC certified depending on its origin. To verify the certification of this specific product, contact Woodup. Purchasing certified tropical timber guarantees responsible forest management and full traceability of the species back to its source.
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Satisfied or refunded if returned within 14 calendar days (Sundays and public holidays included) following delivery.
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