Choosing the right wood for an exterior door comes down to more than just looks—it’s about stability, durability, and how the material performs over time. At Rockwood, we work with a range of hardwoods, but when longevity and performance are the top priority, we recommend genuine South American mahogany. It’s what we consider the gold standard: highly stable, naturally rot- and insect-resistant, and incredibly durable in changing weather conditions.
That said, genuine mahogany isn’t the only option. There are other hardwoods that perform well and offer strong value when a project calls for high quality on a tighter budget.
In addition to genuine mahogany, we often work with Sipo, Ribbon Sapele, and African mahogany—each offering a balance of strength, appearance, and cost. These species are frequently used for painted finishes, which provide the highest level of protection from the elements.
Sipo and Sapele are especially close in appearance and density to genuine mahogany. They’re stable, durable, and machine cleanly. African mahogany—typically from the Khaya family—is slightly more variable in grain and density, but still a reliable choice when sourced well.
For stain-grade projects, clients often specify domestic hardwoods like walnut, white oak, or quarter-sawn oak to match architectural details or create a statement piece. While these woods aren’t as naturally weather-resistant as tropical hardwoods, they can still be used successfully on exterior doors with the right design considerations, proper sealing, and ongoing maintenance.
We’ll always steer you toward the material that fits your project’s needs, style, and environment. If you’re aiming for maximum durability and long-term performance, genuine mahogany is our top choice. If the goal is a high-quality door with a more accessible budget, Sipo or Sapele offer excellent value. And for stain-grade doors that need to make a visual impact, we’ll help you make the right choices so your door not only looks the part—but lasts.
At Rockwood, we listen first, ask questions, and then create custom pieces that fit your needs. Ready to get started?