Tuesday 19 March 2024

Brazilian Ipe Decking: 6 Must-Knows Before You Invest

 

With family gatherings and friendly get-togethers becoming like a much-needed breather in our busy lives, creating a space where memories can flourish is more important than ever. Because of this, many homeowners are now investing in their outdoor areas, making sure they are up to par for entertaining as well as relaxation.

We have seen firsthand how, when done right, a wooden deck can add value and charm to a property. But before you jump right in and decide to build your own Brazilian ipe deck, we want to share six things that homeowners and builders must know. 

1. Brazilian ipe decking has low slippage qualities. 

Brazilian ipe wood not only stands the test of time but also ensures safety. It has undergone rigorous testing to adhere to ASTM-C1028-89 standards, meaning Brazilian ipe deckingnot only meets but exceeds the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for the Static Coefficient of friction in wet conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for areas prone to moisture or for families desiring a safer outdoor space. 

2. Brazilian ipe wood sets the bar high when it comes to strength and longevity 

When we sayipe woodis tough, we mean it’s practically indestructible. Due to its high-density properties, this material is highly resistant to termites, rot, and decay, and it even has a Class A fire rating (the highest level of fire resistance). Your deck will remain unscathed by furniture movement, pet claws, or high heels, thanks to ipe's exceptional hardness. And unlike synthetic decking, it doesn’t sag under the weight of foot traffic or fluctuating temperatures. Ipe wood is, without a doubt, your low-maintenance and cost-effective decking choice for decades to come. 

3. Ipe hardwood is naturally splinter-resistant. 

This feature is notably important for families, especially those with young children. Splinters from decks are a common concern for parents as they can cause injuries and even lead to infections. Brazilian ipe hardwood's dense structuregreatly minimizes splintering. This inherent characteristic ensures a smoother surface and maintains the integrity and safety of your deck over time. Beyond the comfort and safety aspects, this resistance to splintering also means that the deck maintains its aesthetic appeal without the need for frequent sanding or sealing. 

4. This hardwood has a long lifespan

Ipe wood decks last 50 years or maybe even longer with the right care. Low maintenance doesn't mean no maintenance, though. Giving it a good clean occasionally and treating it with a stain to keep it in top-notch condition will ensure your deck remains a lasting part of your home.

5. Matching the color of your outdoor haven is easy with Brazilian ipe wood.

One of the coolest things about this hardwood is its color variety. Ranging from a beautiful olive brown to a darker, nearly-black hue, it can seamlessly blend into your existing outdoor décor or become the standout feature of your backyard. Over time, you'll notice it gracefully ages into a silver-gray patina, a testament to its enduring nature. And if you're a fan of the original color, a simple application of a UV-blocking oil can maintain its vibrant tones. This flexibility in aesthetic appeal makes it a favorite among homeowners and designers alike.

6) Ipe decking supports eco-friendly living

Brazilian ipe wood is harvested with sustainability in mind, ensuring that your dream deck doesn't cost the earth its future. Plus, its longevity means less material turnover, thereby reducing the need for frequent replacements and the consequent environmental strain. 

Ready to transform your outdoor space with Brazilian ipe decking? Call us today at 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840 to start your project!

Source:https://abswood.com/blog/brazilian-ipe-decking-6-must-knows-before-you-invest/

Beyond the Expected: 5 Unexpected Benefits of Ipe Hardwood Decking

 


During a time of economic uncertainty when every dollar counts, many homeowners find themselves second-guessing home-improvement purchases — especially those that come with a heftier price tag. This cautious approach is understandable. After all, it’s more important than ever to make the most of one’s budget. But when it comes to building an outdoor deck that should last many years and enhance the value and beauty of your home, the best materials do require a little extra investment. 

Ipe hardwood decking is one such investment. Its price may initially seem steep, but this material is undoubtedly worth every cent. You may have encountered the common praises ofipe wood decking— its amazing durability, resistance to wear, and aesthetic appeal. But did you know that there are many more (often overlooked) benefits to choosing ipe for your deck? Here’s a rundown that might just change the way you think about decking materials. 

1. Its price reflects its quality.

It’s true that ipe wood comes with a higher upfront cost than alternatives like cedar or redwood. It costs more per square foot and may also cost more to install. However, ipe wood also boasts natural oils and a density that no other wood matches. This combination not only repels pests but significantly delays the weathering process, which makes an ipe wood deck a robust addition to your home. In fact, ipe decks can last 50 years without needing a replacement. 

2. Its FSCcertification means sustainability.

Another advantage that often goes unnoticed is the environmental aspect of using ipe hardwood. Did you know that ipe wood harvested from forests managed responsibly earns the Forest Stewardship Council's (FSC) certification? This label assures you that your choice supports sustainable forest management practices, making your ipe deck not just a luxury for your home but a responsible choice for our planet. 

3. It offers cool comfort on warm days. 

Ipe wood stays relatively cool underfoot, even in direct sunlight. Unlike composite materials or other types of wood that absorb and radiate heat, ipe wood decking provides a more comfortable surface, ensuring barefoot-friendly walkways even on the warmest days. 

4. It has remarkable resilience and safety features.

Ipe wood's durability is no exaggeration. Being Eighttimes stronger than cedar and six timesas hard as redwood, it withstands extreme weather, heavy foot traffic, and the test of time with minimal wear. Its incredible resilience is not just theoretical — the famed Coney Island boardwalk, made from ipe, stood strong for over 25 years amidst massive crowds. Additionally, ipe’s fire resistance is on par with materials like concrete and steel, offering an extra layer of safety. 

5. It has an unseen economic advantage. 

Lastly, while the initial cost may steer some away, the long-term perspective paints a different picture. Considering maintenance, replacement, and life cycle costs,ipe wood deckingemerges as one of the most economical choices over time. Its longevity and low upkeep requirements make it a competitive option even against less expensive (and inferior) wood or synthetic alternatives. Moreover, its slip resistance meets ADA standards, ensuring the safety of your family and friends when enjoying your deck. 

There you have it — five unexpected yet critical benefits ofipe hardwood decking. We hope these points well illustrate why we believe ipe wood is a worthy investment for any homeowner with an eye for quality, sustainability, comfort, resilience, and cost-effectiveness.

And if you're ready to buy, call our ABS WOOD customer service team at 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840 today. We are proud to offer a wide selection ofipe wood deckingoptions and will be happy to help you build the deck of your dreams. Happy building!

Source:https://abswood.com/blog/beyond-the-expected-5-unexpected-benefits-of-ipe-hardwood-decking/


Tuesday 13 February 2024

Footprint-Friendly Floors: 5 Reasons Why Ipe Decks Are One of Earth's Best Friends

 

Are you planning to build a new deck or update an existing one? ABS Wood specializes in offering a broad selection of sustainably sourced ipe hardwood decking for your project. 

Using ipe hardwood decking not only enhances your outdoor living space and increases your property’s value—it also offers a range of benefits. Known for its rich brown color, ipe (sometimes called Ironwood or Brazilian Black Walnut) brings a touch of elegance to your home. Its durability and resistance to moisture—which helps prevent fungus, rot, and wood-destroying organisms—make it an ideal choice for decking.

Beyond this, ipe hardwood decking has an additional advantage: It helps reduce your environmental footprint. By selecting ipe for your deck, you contribute to global efforts aimed at preserving the rainforests.

Here are five key reasons why ipe hardwood decking is a superior choice for both you and the environment:

1. Responsibly sourced 

At ABS Wood, we sell only responsibly sourced ipe wood decking from sustainably managed forests in South America to show our commitment to the Forest Stewardship Council. FSC is an international non-profit organization dedicated to managing and ensuring the sustainability of forests around the world. FSC-certified bodies monitor and audit all wood products from the forests to job sites. 

FSC certification is important because it encourages positive governance in maintaining forests. Governments and companies are working together to maintain and monitor local forests while the organization coordinates their efforts. In addition, buying FSC-certified ipe means you’re using materials from well-managed forests, so be sure to look for their check mark and tree logo when buying ipe hardwood decking. We proudly show that logo here at ABS Wood. 

2. Represents the pillars of sustainability 

When you buy from us, you are guaranteed a full Chain of Custody ipe. Plus, you know you’re building with ipe wood decking that is socially responsible, sourced in an environmentally friendly way, and economically viable, the three pillars linked with forest sustainability. At ABS Wood, we sell only ipe that complies with the Lacey Act,so you can be confident that it’s responsibly harvested. 

3. Reduces landfill contributions 

Ipe hardwood decking is all-natural, unlike composites. While durable and long-lasting, composite wood contains materials that take centuries to rot and return to the earth. That’s not a problem with ipe because it’s naturally biodegradable, so it won’t sit too long in landfills.

4. Reduces waste 

With ordinary materials, you will have to replace and rebuild your deck after a few decades. Ipe wood decking is denser than oak. Imagine a baseball bat but 3 times harder. This density also makes it fire-resistant like concrete, earning an A1 fire rating. 

In technical terms, ipe scores 3680 lb on the Janka Hardness scale. That makes the wood difficult to pierce or scratch. Another advantage to this hardness is ipe hardwood decking naturally resists pests and fungus. That means pine beetles, termites, and other wood-destroying organisms won’t be able to grip the wood.

These benefits demonstrate that ipe's longevity surpasses that of standard hardwoods, eliminating the need for frequent replacements or repairs of your deck. By choosing ipe, you reduce waste production associated with building new structures every few years. 

5. It doesn’t require chemical treatments and pesticides

Ipe wood decking is naturally durable, resilient, low-maintenance, and pest-resistant, so you don’t have to spend a lot of time applying treatments regularly. In fact, you can skip chemicals and pesticides altogether without worries.

However, we recommend applying a UV-blocking finisher periodically to your ipe hardwood decking if you want to preserve its rich brown color. Otherwise, you can let it age with sun exposure and turn silver-gray.

So, if you’re thinking of using environmentally friendly materials, contact us here at ABS Wood to get high-quality ipe wood decking at reasonable prices. You can also get an estimate for ipe hardwood decking by calling 352-528-4990 or 404-549-4840.

Source:https://abswood.com/blog/footprint-friendly-floors-5-reasons-why-ipe-decks-are-one-of-earths-best-friends/

5 Shades of Wow: Unleash the Rainbow Elegance of Ipe Brazilian Hardwood Decks

 

Are you building a deck? Instead of choosing conventional wood or composites, how about something more durable and long-lasting, like ipe Brazilian hardwood? 

It’s one of our best-selling materials here at ABS Wood, where you will find a full line of products—from decking to handrails and lumber. As leading suppliers of Brazilian hardwoods in the US, we comply with the Lacey Act and make sure that our products—including ipe wood for sale—are sourced only from sustainably managed forests to minimize our environmental impact.

When customers approach us for Brazilian hardwoods, they want something that instantly adds a wow factor to their deck. That’s exactly what ipe offers. Also known as Brazilian Black Walnut and Ironwood in the US, ipe is becoming more popular for residential applications, particularly for decking and indoor flooring. 

Effortless elegance 

When you explore our selection of ipe wood, the first thing you'll appreciate is its rich brown color and subtle variety of shades. All our boards share a dominant medium brown tone, complemented by a stunning grain pattern that brings a refined elegance to any deck. What’s great is that even though they all share the same rich hue, they each have personalities. Some boards are deep (nearly black) brown, while others have hints of red and green. This creates a unique and visually captivating decking surface, ensuring no two decks are exactly alike.

The color of ipe Brazilian hardwood works well with any interior or exterior application, especially for decks. This material is also versatile for building other outdoor features, such as tables, pergolas, and docks. You don’t even have to look elsewhere to source boards and lumber for those needs because we have everything here at ABS Wood. 

Beyond aesthetics, there are many other reasons to use ipe Brazilian hardwood for your project. Here are some of them:  

Better value for your money 

As top suppliers of ipe wood for sale, we understand that ipe is among the most expensive Brazilian hardwoods. But don’t let the cost prevent you from investing in a long-lasting and naturally beautiful hardwood. It will prove its cost-effectiveness in the long run. 

One of the benefits of an ipe deck is how easy it is to maintain.  This Brazilian hardwood doesn't need frequent treatments to preserve its beauty and strength. To maintain its rich brown and reddish hues, simply apply a high-quality UV-blocking finisher, though this is optional. If you prefer, you can let the wood naturally turn gray over the years with sun exposure. 

Durable material

Ipe wood for sale is also a good investment if you want your deck to last a long time. At ABS Wood, we only sell top-grade Ipe Brazilian hardwood that ranks 3680 lb on the Janka scale of hardness (harder than oak). Imagine a baseball bat but more resilient and with an A1 fire rating similar to concrete. 

In addition, ipe is so dense that termites, pine beetles, and other wood-destroying organisms don’t like to waste time trying to bite it. You don’t even need to use special pesticides to keep bugs away.

Our ipe wood for sale is also scratch-resistant, and it takes a lot of force and weight to damage the surface. In case you accidentally drag something sharp across your deck, you can smooth it out with an 80-grit orbital sander. 

Are you ready to wow people with an Ipe Brazilian hardwood deck? Contact us here on our website or call 352-508-4490 or 404-549-4840 for an estimate on our ipe wood for sale. Our friendly team will also walk you through the options to help you pick the best materials for your project.

Source:https://abswood.com/blog/5-shades-of-wow-unleash-the-rainbow-elegance-of-ipe-brazilian-hardwood-decks/

Friday 19 January 2024

8 Reasons Why Ipe Deserves a Starring Role in Your Next Deck Project

 

Selecting the right material for your deck can significantly influence its overall quality, aesthetic appeal, and longevity. If you're contemplating a deck makeover, ipe wood (also known as Brazilian walnut) should be at the top of your list. An ipe deck can transform your outdoor area into a luxurious and welcoming space. Here's a closer look at reasons to choose ipe deck boards for your next project!

1.   Durability - Ipe decks are known for their extraordinary durability. In the US, ipe is often referred to as 'ironwood' because of its extreme hardness. It's about three times harder than oak and boasts an impressive A1 fire rating, similar to concrete.

This density also makes ipe wood resistant to insect damage. Any insect trying to burrow into the wood is likely to give up and move on to softer targets. Due to its hardness, pre-drilling is required when working with ipe, but this small extra step is worth it for a deck that can last a lifetime.

2.    Low maintenance requirements - An ipe deck can withstand all sorts of weather conditions—from harsh storms to scorching sun—without needing chemical preservatives. This natural resistance makes it a low-maintenance option for homeowners. Ipe deck boards are naturally resistant to decay, moisture, rot, fungus, and termites.

3.   Remarkable hardness - Ipe wood ranks at 3680 lb on the Janka hardness scale, making it incredibly hard and resistant to wood-destroying organisms. Its hardness means you'll need carbide-tipped tools and sharp saws for installation, ensuring a clean cut and a beautiful finish.

4. No extensive preservation needed - Ipe wood doesn't require much in the way of preservation. It will gracefully age to a silvery gray color if left unfinished. But if you prefer to keep its rich brown color, you can apply a high-quality UV-blocking finish periodically. This small effort can keep your deck looking elegant for many years.

5.  Natural beauty and color variations - Ipe deck boards offer a beautiful range of brown shades, each board having its own unique character. You'll find variations from dark (almost black) hues to lighter ones with green or red undertones. Ipe has a fine texture, showcasing an attractive graining pattern that adds to its visual appeal. Most boards have a predominantly medium brown tone, lending a timeless elegance and an exotic touch to your deck, making it stand out.

6.    Eco-friendly choice - Choosing ipe wood is not just about aesthetics and durability—it's also an eco-friendly option. As a natural product, it does not involve the use of harmful chemicals during its production or disposal. By selecting FSC-certified ipe deck boards, you're contributing to sustainable forestry practices.

7.  Comfort and safety - The natural characteristics of ipe wood make it a safe option for decking. Its slip-resistant properties are especially beneficial in areas that are frequently wet. Additionally, its resistance to heat absorption makes it comfortable to walk on, even on hot days.

8.    Long-term cost-effectiveness - While ipe wood may have a higher initial cost compared to other decking materials, its long lifespan and minimal maintenance requirements make it a cost-effective choice in the long run. You won’t have to worry about frequent replacements or repairs, saving you money over time.

By choosing ipe wood for your decking project, you’re investing in a long-lasting, beautiful outdoor space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Whether it’s hosting gatherings, enjoying quiet evenings, or simply admiring the natural beauty of the wood, an ipe deck will undoubtedly enhance your outdoor living experience.

Convinced about the merits of building an ipe deck? Source your materials from a trusted provider like ABS Wood to fully enjoy these benefits. Explore samples of ipe decks here on our website for inspiration, and contact us at 404-549-4840 or 352-508-4990 for a quote.

Sources: https://abswood.com/blog/8-reasons-why-ipe-deserves-a-starring-role-in-your-next-deck-project/

Barefoot Luxury: The Unmatched Appeal of Brazilian Wood Deck Living

 

When planning a deck, it's essential to consider more than just the wood type and deck size. Durability, aesthetics, longevity, and resistance to weather and pests are equally important. In this regard, Brazilian hardwoods stand out as excellent choices. A Brazilian wood deck offers remarkable resistance to weather, moisture, pests, rot, and frequent use, making it a valuable investment for any property. And if you enjoy walking barefoot, options like ipe decking are ideal, thanks to their slip resistance.

In the current market, Brazilian hardwoods are accessible through credible suppliers who prioritize sustainability. They offer FSC-certified products that meet stringent environmental, social, and economic standards.

Ready to enhance your outdoor living experience? In this blog, we'll explore the unique appeal of Brazilian hardwoods and how they can transform your outdoor living space.

Add elegance to your property.

The appeal of a Brazilian wood deck lies in its unmatched natural elegance. Ipe, a premium Brazilian hardwood, features a rich brown hue with unique graining patterns, giving each board a distinctive appearance. It comes in a range of colors, with some boards appearing almost black. Regardless of the shade, ipe adds a touch of luxury to outdoor living spaces.

Other Brazilian hardwoods offer various color options. Tigerwood is known for its light maple color that weathers into a reddish hue and distinct tiger-like stripes, providing a unique aesthetic. Other excellent choices include garapa, with its honey-yellow color turning light brown over time, and Massaranduba, which is known for its deep red hue.

More than just aesthetics

It’s undoubtedly beautiful, but a Brazilian wood deck also offers numerous advantages beyond its appearance:

  • Durability - Brazilian hardwoods are naturally resistant to water, rot, and pests, even without chemical treatments. Ipe is known for its water-tight properties and is an excellent choice for pool or hot tub decks. In fact, Brazilian hardwoods like ipe and tigerwood are so hard that they naturally repel pests like termites and pine borers, making them more durable than cedar or pine.
  • Strength - Brazilian hardwoods are denser than traditional lumber, meaning they can withstand significant pressure and weight. This durability ensures that your Brazilian wood deck can handle heavy foot traffic and furniture without damage. The robust nature of these woods also means they're less likely to warp or crack over time, maintaining their structural integrity and visual appeal for years to come.
  • Low maintenance - While traditional hardwoods often require routine upkeep, Brazilian wood decking demands less maintenance. Tigerwood, Cumaru, and Ipe might need a UV-blocking finisher to preserve their color, but they also age gracefully without it, adding character to your deck over time.

Personalizing your Brazilian wood deck

Building a Brazilian wood deck offers numerous possibilities for customization and personalization. Here are some ideas to consider:

  • Integrate multi-level designs - For larger outdoor spaces, consider a multi-level Brazilian wood deck with distinct areas for dining, lounging, and entertainment.
  • Incorporate built-in features - Built-in seating, planters, and lighting can enhance the functionality and aesthetic of your deck. Integrating these features into the design of your Brazilian wood deck not only saves space but also creates a cohesive and well-thought-out look.
  • Blend with the landscape - Consider the surrounding flora and design elements to create a Brazilian wood deck that feels like a natural extension of your garden or backyard. This approach ensures that your deck complements rather than competes with the natural beauty of your outdoor space. 

Find the perfect Brazilian hardwood for your deck.

When you're ready to build your Brazilian wood deck, look to ABS Wood, a reliable supplier of Brazilian decking products. We stock various sizes of ipe, garapa, massaranduba, and tigerwood, ensuring timely delivery for your project.

Contact us at 404-549-4840 or 352-508-4990 for an estimate or to order the Brazilian hardwood decking materials you need.

Source:https://abswood.com/blog/barefoot-luxury-the-unmatched-appeal-of-brazilian-wood-deck-living/

Cumaru Unleashed: A Deep Dive into the Benefits of this Tropical Hardwood

 

Selecting the right materials is key to achieving both beauty and durability when building outdoor living spaces. Common hardwoods often fall short in this regard. They tend to lack longevity and durability, often necessitating regular maintenance and early replacement.

If you’re looking for something better, Cumaru—also known as Brazilian teak—is an exceptional choice. Its versatility extends beyond standard decking, as it is available in various configurations, including handrails, shiplap, and rainscreens,
offering a wide range of building possibilities.

Cumaru, with its eye-catching medium tan to deep reddish-brown color and pronounced grain, is not just visually appealing but also highly reliable for outdoor construction due to its toughness and resistance to weather, moisture, and pests. Its popularity in the US for decking is a testament to its quality and versatility.

A sustainable and environmentally friendly choice

Native to South America, Cumaru is sustainably sourced from tropical rainforests. It adheres to the strict environmental, social, and economic standards set by the FSC. Choosing Cumaru from a reputable source means investing in a sustainable, high-quality deck. Furthermore, Cumaru grows faster than other Brazilian hardwoods, making it a renewable resource with minimal impact on its habitat.

Durability and reliability

Cumaru trees grown in South American rainforests are naturally resistant to insect infestation, rot, and decay thanks to their natural oils and high density. Even after processing, Cumaru retains its natural resilience for 25 years or more without the need for chemical treatments. Its adaptation to damp and hot weather conditions contributes to its dense core, maintaining its durability long after installation.

Superior hardness and density

On the Janka Hardness Scale, Cumaru scores 3550 lbf—significantly harder than hardwoods like oak and maple. This makes Cumaru resistant to scratches, ideal for high-traffic areas and under heavy furniture.

Moisture resistance

Cumaru's high oil content makes it resistant to water penetration, protecting it from splitting, cracking, or warping. This resistance also makes it less prone to mold and fungal growth, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance.

Aesthetic appeal

The natural color of Cumaru ranges from tan to deep reddish-brown, with each board featuring a unique grain pattern. Staining can enhance these natural features, making Cumaru suitable for building visually striking decks, fences, or benches.

Low maintenance

Although Cumaru naturally grays over time due to UV exposure, this process can be slowed with the periodic application of a UV-blocking finisher. Other than this, Cumaru requires little maintenance to remain durable and visually appealing for decades.

Cost-effectiveness

While Cumaru's initial cost may be higher than some alternatives, its longevity and minimal maintenance needs make it a cost-effective choice in the long run, offering better value than both high-end hardwoods and budget-friendly options.

Experience the benefits of Cumaru.

Cumaru's unique blend of beauty, durability, and sustainability makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor areas. Whether you are building a deck, a bench, or even intricate garden features, Cumaru provides the perfect combination of aesthetic appeal and practicality. Its natural resistance to the elements and pests, coupled with its low maintenance needs, ensures that your outdoor space will not only look stunning but also stand the test of time. With Cumaru, you can create an outdoor oasis that reflects both your style and commitment to sustainable living!

Do you need high-quality Cumaru decking materials? ABS Wood is a trusted supplier. We offer a variety of sizes and configurations of Cumaru, ensuring timely delivery for your project. Contact us at 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840 for a quote and explore the diverse applications of Cumaru in enhancing your outdoor living space.

Source: https://abswood.com/blog/cumaru-unleashed-a-deep-dive-into-the-benefits-of-this-tropical-hardwood/