Thread: Solomon Islands Beech

If this is the same as PNG beech, then it is actually a series of related species from the gmelina family.
Similar properties and appearance to Tas oak but blander, finer grain tho; carves quite well. But I have not used enough to offer reliable advice.

It should be in Bootle.

I had a 'bit' to do with this timber. Having worked as a carpenter on the Tall ship Bounty, the old Fir decking was replaced in SI Beech.

As you say very greasy which is why it is so treasured as a boat building material, particularly for the decks.

The joints or seams were caulked with a Sikaflex 290 and there was a lot that let go over time from the lack of adhesion to the edges of the planks. Probably wasn't helped by the fact the timber was still too 'green' but the owners insisted that it go down regardless.

In answer to your question and prior to gluing up, make sure a good solvent is utilised to clean the contact surfaces similar to what you would do with say Burmese Teak. I would go for a foaming polyurethane or similar product as a glue. Regards, C.R.