Why Ipe'?
One of the strongest woods in the world
Environmentally friendly
Low maintenance
Up to a Class A fire rating for flame spread
Termite, Mold & Fungi resistant
No knots
High scratch & slip resistance
Can outlast composite material
Twice as strong as Oak
Time proven on many commercial projects
Better than teak
Great for docks, gazebos, benches, & tables
Worldwide shipping is available
Large selection of stock sizes
Up to 20 feet long
Up to 6x6 timbers
We custom mill to your dimensions
Comparably priced with composite decking choices
Available with hidden fastening system
Wallaba wood is a popular choice for roofing shingles due to its natural resistance to decay and insect damage. Wallaba shingles are sustainably harvested in Guyana where the wood is native. Wallaba shingles are typically cut into a rectangular shape with a tapered thickness, and are installed in overlapping rows to create a waterproof and durable roof. The reddish-brown color of Wallaba shingles can also add a unique and attractive aesthetic to a building's exterior. However, it's worth noting that the reddish-brown color will mature to a beautiful greyish-brown color over time.
Wallaba shingles are known for their durability and resistance to decay and insect damage. The natural oils and resins present in Wallaba wood help to protect it from decay and rot, making it a popular choice for roofing in tropical climates where moisture and humidity can be a problem for other types of roofing materials. Wallaba shingles can also resist insect damage, including termite and borer attacks, which can be a common problem for other types of wooden roofing materials. With proper maintenance and care, Wallaba shingles can last for many years, with some installations lasting for up to 50 years or more.
Not All Wallaba Shingles Are Alike
Be Extremely cautious of cheap wallaba shingles! There are some important factors to consider regarding the grade of shingles which can cause your roof to leak within months or even a few years after installation. Sandura® Wallaba Shingles represent only Premium-Grade Wallaba Shingles.
Wood is a natural product which has inherent defects in the tree. After the tree is cut, the log is converted to shingles. During the conversion process from logs to shingles there are many defects within the log which can become part of the finished product. Many architects, contractors, installers and home owners may not be familiar with such defects which can compromise the integrity of the roof.
Sandura® Wallaba Shingles vs. Western Red Cedar Shingles
Category |
Wallaba |
Cedar |
Hardness |
2,050 lb |
350 lb |
Crushing Strength |
11,210 lb/in |
4,700 lb/in |
Maintenance |
No oiling required |
Oil every 5 years |
Wind Resistance |
High |
Low |
Hail Resistance |
High |
Low |
Rot Resistance |
High |
Low |
Cup Resistance |
High (due to quartersawn grain) |
Low (due to plainsawn grain) |
Flame Spread |
Class A |
Class B |
Sandura® Wallaba Shingles
Sandura® Wallaba Shingles
Sandura® Wallaba Shingles are sold by the bundle.
1 Bundle:
Roofing Coverage based on 5.5" Exposure is 12.5 square feet or .125 roofing square
Wall Coverage based on 6" Exposure is 13.56 square feet
1 Roofing Square = 8 Bundles
Roofing Coverage based on 5.5" Exposure is 100 square feet or 1 roofing square
Wall Coverage based on 6" Exposure is 108.5 square feet
1 Pallet = 35 Bundles
Roofing Coverage based on 5.5" Exposure is 437.50 square feet or 4.375 roofing squares
Wall Coverage based on 6" Exposure is 474.68 square feet
RFSQ stands for Roofing Square which is equal to 100 square feet.
Sandura® Wallaba Ridge Cap
Sandura® Wallaba Ridge Cap - Clear, Heartwood, Quartersawn 12mm thick, 18" length, 5" width (1 Pcs)
Wallaba Shingles Installation

Wallaba Installation Instructions (PDF)
Wallaba Shingles Pictures
Call Us Toll Free for a Wallaba Shingles Quote: 1-877-232-3915
Wallaba Sustainability
The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) regulates harvesting of Wallaba to ensure sustainability.