Ipe Decking is made from wood of the highest quality and durability and is commonly used on large commercial projects such as piers and boardwalks. Recently, Ipe has begun to be used on residential projects as well. Ipe Decking has many benefits far exceeding woods traditionally used for residential decking projects. Although it is more expensive than traditionally used woods, it lasts so long that it is well worth the start up cost. It is remarkable for its beauty, durability and resistance to almost all forms of weathering and destruction, including fire.
Ipe Decking is noteworthy for its beauty, with warm colors ranging from reddish-brown to russet. The grain of the wood is highly varied and intricate, making it a visual pleasure. While many types of decking have visible wear after only 5 years, Ipe’s beauty lasts 25 years and longer.
Ipe Decking is unique for its durablility, which is due largely to its density. Ipe weighs up to 69 pounds per cubic foot, nearly twice the density of woods commonly used for decking. Its excessive density gives the decking the ability to resist wear. Rot, damaging UV rays, termites, fire, chemicals and other forces that commonly wear out and destroy decking are naturally resisted by Ipe. Its density also means its possesses strength and hardness far exceeding traditional domestic woods. Warping, bending, splintering and movement while in use are all kept to a minimum.
Even on large commercial applications, Ipe Decking has a 25-year durability rating. Ipe’s ability to resist the tremendous wear that boardwalks and piers receive ensures the potential for an even longer life on residential applications. Not only is Ipe able to beautifully last for a long time, it requires little maintenance to do so. Labor required to apply preservatives and treatments can be eliminated, even when the decking is in contact with the ground.
If beauty and durability are important characteristics for you when choosing a decking, look no further than Ipe. Despite higher costs than other types of decking, Ipe possesses a much higher value and quality for the money. Your new Ipe Decking will be extremely durable, and maintain its remarkable beauty not for 5 or 10 years, but for 25 years or more.
