Wednesday 8 November 2023

Ipe Wood for Sale: Discover the Ultimate Decking Solution

So, you've finally decided to upgrade your deck and are considering options. Have you heard about Brazilian Ipe wood? This exceptional hardwood is not only attractive but also renowned for its durability and resistance to decay, making it an excellent choice for decking. But why choose Ipe wood for sale over other decking solutions?

Unparalleled hardness

Ipe wood stands out in the decking market due to its extraordinary hardness. This Brazilian hardwood boasts a remarkable score of 3,680 lbs on the Janka Hardness Scale—a benchmark for wood toughness. This score surpasses that of many other decking materials, enabling Ipe to resist scratches, dents, and even the most rigorous wear and tear.

Class A fire resistance

Believe it or not, Ipe wood holds a Class A fire rating—the same rating given to materials such as concrete and steel. This means that Ipe wood is highly resistant to fire, which adds an extra layer of safety to your home. When looking at Ipe wood for sale, it's clear that the safety and durability it provides are well worth the investment.

Ethical Sourcing and Sustainability

Beyond its physical attributes, Ipe wood carries ethical and environmental significance. Choosing materials that are responsibly sourced is crucial in today's world, where sustainability matters more than ever. Ipe wood aligns perfectly with these values.

Adhering to the strict regulations of the U.S. Lacey Act, Ipe wood is not only legally harvested but also sourced with the utmost respect for nature. This means that your choice of Ipe wood is not only superior for your home but also ethically sound and environmentally friendly.

By opting for Ipe wood for your decking, you become part of a sustainable solution. The careful management of Ipe wood forests ensures that these invaluable ecosystems thrive. When you choose Ipe wood, you're supporting responsible forestry practices and contributing to the preservation of our planet.

Low Maintenance, Long-Lasting Beauty

Your Ipe wood deck is not only a symbol of elegance but also a testament to low maintenance. Unlike other decking materials that demand regular sealing, staining, or treatment, Ipe wood lets you enjoy your outdoor space without the hassle of constant upkeep.

The secret behind Ipe wood's low maintenance lies in its natural oils and density. These attributes make it inherently resistant to moisture, pests, and UV damage. Your Ipe wood deck will retain its beauty and structural integrity with minimal effort.

Why Choose ABS WOOD for Your Ipe Decking Needs?

At ABS WOOD, we understand the importance of creating outdoor spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also built to last. When you choose us as your Ipe wood provider, you gain access to the finest quality Brazilian Ipe wood coupled with exceptional customer service.

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond providing top-tier Ipe wood for sale. We offer a partnership that ensures your decking solution is beautiful, durable, and sustainably sourced. Here's why ABS WOOD is your trusted partner for Ipe decking:

Premium Quality

Our Brazilian Ipe wood is sourced from the heart of Brazil's forests, where it thrives naturally. We select only the highest quality Ipe wood to ensure that your deck not only meets but exceeds your expectations. The exceptional hardness, rich colors, and longevity of our Ipe wood speak for themselves.

Expertise and Experience

With years of experience in the industry, our team possesses the expertise needed for a flawless Ipe decking installation. We understand the intricacies of working with Ipe wood, from precise measurements to hidden fastening systems. You can trust us to bring your vision to life with unmatched craftsmanship.

Sustainability Commitment

At ABS WOOD, we take pride in our commitment to sustainability. Our Ipe wood is responsibly sourced, adhering to stringent environmental regulations. By choosing our Ipe wood, you're making a choice that supports ethical forestry practices and contributes to a greener planet.

Personalized Service

We believe in a personalized approach to customer service. Our representatives are here to guide you through every step of the process, from selecting the perfect Ipe wood for your project to providing installation recommendations. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we're dedicated to ensuring your decking project is a resounding success.

Enduring Partnerships

When you choose ABS WOOD, you're not just making a one-time purchase—you're entering into a partnership that endures. Our Ipe wood's longevity means your outdoor space will remain beautiful and functional for years to come. We're here to support you throughout your decking journey.

Trust ABS WOOD as your partner for superior decking solutions. Talk to one of our representatives today to explore the possibilities of Ipe wood and elevate your outdoor space to new heights of elegance and durability. Discover the beauty of Ipe wood—a choice that embraces timeless aesthetics, safety, ethics, and sustainability. With ABS WOOD by your side, your Ipe decking dream is within reach, and it's built to last.

In conclusion, the allure of Brazilian Ipe wood for decking is undeniable. Its exceptional hardness, Class A fire resistance, ethical sourcing, and minimal maintenance requirements make it the ultimate choice for those seeking a perfect blend of elegance and durability in their outdoor spaces.

Choosing Ipe wood not only guarantees a stunning and long-lasting deck but also reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility. The stringent adherence to sustainability standards ensures that your Ipe wood decking is not only a symbol of luxury but also a statement of ethical and eco-conscious living.

At ABS WOOD, we are more than just a provider of top-quality Ipe wood for sale. We are your dedicated partner in creating outdoor spaces that stand the test of time while upholding the highest standards of sustainability. Our commitment to excellence, expertise, and personalized service ensures that your Ipe decking project is a resounding success.

As you embark on your journey to transform your outdoor space with Ipe wood, trust ABS WOOD to be your guiding light. With us by your side, your Ipe wood decking dream is not only attainable but also built to last. Elevate your outdoor space to new heights of elegance and sustainability with the timeless beauty of Ipe wood. Contact one of our representatives today to begin your Ipe wood decking adventure. Your perfect outdoor sanctuary awaits.

 

 

Friday 13 October 2023

Transform Your Space with Cedar: Enhancing Your Projects with Cedar Lumber

As the popularity of outdoor living spaces continues to rise, it's a perfect time to evaluate and enhance your home's exterior lounging and entertaining areas. If you're concerned about the cost and long-term value of the project as well as finding materials that offer both a stunning appearance and easy maintenance, consider using cedar lumber. It’s an ideal solution for creating an aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting outdoor space.

Why use cedar?

Cedarwood is one of the most versatile materials for many applications, including beams, decking, shingles, timbers, boards, and lumber. The heartwood is an impressive red to reddish brown, with tight knots adding unique character to it. Although it’s widely used in furniture, high-grade cedar timber can be customized for outdoor projects, and you will appreciate its resistance to splitting and pitch-free characteristics.

If you’re enhancing your space with other hardwoods like ipe or tigerwood, you could use cedar lumber to add style and beauty with a touch of dimensional stability. The uniform texture and fine, straight grain make the wood easy to cut, nail, or saw with common tools, so it is easy to finish and provide attractive finishing touches to your outdoor spaces.

Enhance your project’s structural stability

Cedar might be easier than Brazilian hardwoods like tigerwood and ipe. On the Janka scale, it's rated 900 lbf. But don't let that deter you from using it for our outdoor projects because it offers great structural stability and shock resistance. Plus, it is a durable wood that doesn't require extensive preservative treatment.

Prevent wood rot

Conventional lumber is usually prone to fungi, mold, and insect damage, but not cedar lumber. Its heartwood naturally has toxic extracts that prevent those things from thriving.

Get cedar wood at wholesale prices here!

Ready to build with cedar lumber? We’ll supply what you need! Here at ABS Wood, you can find a wide range of cedar timbers, decking, beams, and lumber at wholesale prices. Plus, we can provide the services and accessories you need to simplify installation. Call us now at 404-549-4840 or 352-508-4990.

The Best Materials for Trailer Decking: Ensuring Safety and Longevity

Trailer decking plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and longevity of trailers. It is the foundation that supports heavy loads, withstands harsh weather conditions, and endures constant wear and tear.

Choosing the suitable material can make all the difference in its overall performance and durability. But with so many options available, selecting the best one for your needs can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we will explore the top materials for trailer decking and their unique characteristics to help you make an informed decision.  The materials below are ranked with the best being last.

Oak

Oak is a popular choice for decking due to its remarkable toughness and durability. It is considered one of the toughest flooring options available, surpassing standard pine and Douglas fir in terms of strength and resilience. White oak, in particular, is a preferred choice among trailer owners as it provides an excellent combination of beauty and durability. While oak may be more expensive than other wood options, its longevity and superior quality make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting trailer deck.

Angelim Pedra

Angelim Pedra is used extensivly in South America.  When the pandemic hit and the prefered Apitong was not available Angelim Pedra made its way into the market.  It is very comparable to Apitong and many truck owners now use them interchangeably.   Angelim Pedra is popular choice for trailer decking due to its high load bearing capacity and outstanding durability.

Apitong

Apitong, also known as Keruing, is a top contender for decking due to its exceptional toughness and durability. It is one of the toughest hardwoods available in the market today, making it an ideal choice for trucks and trailers. Apitong wood has a high resistance to wear and tear, impact, and weathering, making it an excellent option for heavy-duty applications. Additionally, it is naturally resistant to rot and decay, minimizing the need for frequent maintenance and replacements.

At ABS Wood, we take pride in being a premium Brazilian hardwood retailer. Our decking is carefully sourced and inspected by experts with decades of experience in the wood industry. We understand that quality is paramount when it comes to trailer decking, which is why we only offer the finest and most reliable decking solutions available. With our commitment to customer satisfaction and product excellence, you can trust that ABS Wood will provide you with the best possible experience from start to finish. Choose us for all your decking needs, and upgrade your ride with the unmatched quality and durability of Brazilian hardwood.

Resilient and Versatile: Discovering the Strengths of Garapa Decking

A deck can transform your outdoor living space and establish an inviting atmosphere for relaxation, social gatherings, or even al fresco dining with your family. One of the fundamental decisions you'll make when installing or upgrading your deck is the type of wood to use. Among the various options, Garapa decking stands out for its incredible blend of resilience and versatility.

Durable and low maintenance

Garapa wood (which is often known as Brazilian Ash) is renowned for its exceptional durability. This tropical hardwood possesses a high density that makes it remarkably resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks. Furthermore, its natural oils eliminate the need for frequent maintenance or chemical treatments. Thus, a Garapa deck can withstand harsh weather conditions and still retain its aesthetic appeal for years - a cost-effective and sustainable choice for your outdoor space.

Aesthetically pleasing

Aside from its strength and durability, Garapa decking also brings a unique aesthetic value to your outdoor space. The wood's natural color ranges from a rich honey-blonde to a warm golden brown which can beautifully complement any design style. Its fine grain and smooth texture add a touch of elegance and luxury, transforming your deck into a stylish extension of your indoor living space.

Enhanced outdoor livability and value

Garapa decking not only elevates the appearance of your outdoor space but also significantly boosts its livability and value. A deck constructed from this high-quality wood provides a comfortable and durable surface for outdoor furniture and activities, effectively increasing your home's living space. Moreover, the resilience and aesthetic appeal of Garapa wood can notably enhance the overall value of your property. Prospective buyers often appreciate the timeless elegance and minimal maintenance requirements of a Garapa deck which makes it a worthwhile investment for homeowners considering future resale. Whether you're hosting a barbeque party, reading a book in the open air, or planning to sell your home, Garapa Decking can make your outdoor space more inviting, functional, and valuable.

At Advanced Building Supplies (ABS) Wood, we are proud to offer an extensive range of environmentally certified Brazilian hardwood decking, including exceptional Garapa wood. We are committed to the highest quality standards and sustainable practices, ensuring you receive a product that is beautifully crafted, long-lasting, and eco-friendly. Choose ABS Wood for your decking needs, and let us help you transform your outdoor living space into an enchanting oasis.

Thursday 12 October 2023

Customizing Your Deck: Tailoring Tigerwood to Your Design Preferences

The pandemic has underscored the importance of our homes like never before. As we found ourselves restricted to our houses and apartments, many of us began to realize that our living spaces were not just places to eat and sleep, but sanctuaries providing comfort and safety in a world turned upside down. This renewed appreciation for our homes has ignited a desire to turn them into spaces that truly reflect our personalities and meet our needs. One area gaining particular attention in this regard is the outdoor living space, and for many, customizing their deck with Tigerwood has become a significant part of this home improvement journey.

The exotic allure of Tigerwood

Tigerwood, as its name suggests, is distinguished by its unique and striking stripes that bear a resemblance to a tiger's intricate markings. This exotic beauty which is native to the unforgiving climate and dense forests of South America, offers unparalleled durability and hardness that exceed most common domestic lumber types. Its distinct aesthetic appeal and strong physical properties make it a sought-after choice for those looking to add a touch of exotic charm to their homes.

Its inherent strength not only contributes to its aesthetic appeal but also promises longevity and superior resistance to wear and tear. This wood is well-regarded for its impressive density, which underscores its resistance to decay, rot, and insect attacks. The toughness of this wood guarantees a deck that not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time and use - turning your outdoor space into a long-lasting sanctuary.

Choose Advanced Building Supplies (ABS) Wood for your next deck project.

At ABS Wood, we are proud to offer a wide range of Tigerwood decking materials that meet our rigorous standards for quality and environmental sustainability. Our expertise and commitment ensure you're not just purchasing wood- but an investment towards the longevity and beauty of your outdoor sanctuary. Embrace the exotic allure of Tigerwood and transform your deck into a space that truly reflects your style and meets your needs.

Exploring Options: Ipe Wood for Sale and Its Many Possibilities

When it comes to high-quality, durable, and aesthetically pleasing materials for outdoor decking, Ipe wood stands out among the rest. Known for its rich, dark hue and remarkable strength, Ipe wood is a sought-after choice for those seeking longevity and elegance in their outdoor spaces. But do they live up to the hype?

What is Ipe wood, and what can it be used for?

Ipe Wood (also commonly known as Brazilian Walnut) traces its origins in the lush forests of Central and South America. This exotic species of wood has carved out a niche for itself in the woodworking world thanks to its distinctive characteristics and multifaceted uses. The allure of Ipe wood is not merely confined to its beautifully rich, dark hue but extends to its exceptional strength and durability as well. These attributes make it an ideal candidate for various indoor and outdoor applications, including flooring and furniture manufacturing.

The impressive longevity of Ipe wood, when properly cared for, is truly noteworthy. Exterior constructions such as decking or siding made of this material can potentially endure up to 50 years. Beyond flooring and furniture, the versatility of Ipe wood further shines through in its use in stair and stair handrail construction. Whether you're considering ipe wood for sale for a home improvement project or commercial purposes, its multifaceted applications and enduring nature make it a worthy contender.

Ipe wood for sale at ABS Wood

At ABS Wood, we take pride in housing an extensive collection of environmentally certified Brazilian hardwood decking, including the highly acclaimed Ipe wood. With our commitment to sustainability and quality, every piece of wood in our inventory is responsibly sourced and ready to transform your space. If you are seeking Ipe wood for sale in the United States, ABS Wood is your trusted destination for premium quality, enduring aesthetics, and unparalleled strength. From decking to furniture applications, our Ipe wood range can meet a wide array of construction needs while adding a touch of elegance to your spaces.

Discover the ABS Wood difference and elevate your woodworking projects to new heights of sophistication and durability.

Exploring the Richness of Ipe Brazilian Hardwood: A Guide for Your Next Project

 

Perhaps you are considering a new deck or flooring solution, and you've heard about a certain South American wonder—Ipe Brazilian hardwood. Known for its incredible durability and rich beauty, Ipe is frequently the top choice for those seeking the perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics in their projects. This type of wood is uniquely equipped to withstand harsh weather conditions, which makes it a long-lasting investment for homeowners and contractors alike.

Does the Ipe Brazilian hardwood live up to its reputation?

The widespread praise for Ipe hardwood is well-deserved, particularly when it comes to its remarkable durability. With a lifespan that can exceed 50 years, Ipe stands up well to extreme weather conditions, resisting damage from the sun, rain, and insects. This makes it a reliable choice for outdoor structures like decks. In addition to its durability, Ipe is also highly fire-resistant, earning a Class A rating from multiple industry sources. While Ipe may be more expensive upfront compared to other types of wood, its low maintenance requirements and long lifespan make it a smart investment for years of trouble-free use.

Does the supplier of your Brazilian Ipe hardwood make a significant difference?

Indeed, the source of your Brazilian hardwood significantly impacts the quality and sustainability of your project. At ABS WOOD, we are committed to offering not only top-tier Brazilian Ipe wood but also an ethical, environmentally-friendly sourcing process. Our team consists of knowledgeable experts passionate about delivering the best for our customers. We acknowledge the importance of your projects and understand that the installation process is just as crucial as the material itself. That's why we also provide expert installation services that ensure your Ipe hardwood is installed correctly, enhancing its durability and beauty.

Choose ABS WOOD today because we prioritize quality, sustainability, and your satisfaction.

How Rainscreen Siding Works: Understanding the Principles Behind the System

Moisture problems in the home are usually because of rain, ice, and snow that can make water seep through from the exterior walls. The good news is you can counteract that by installing rainscreen siding. It’s a multi-layer, high-performance assembly consisting of a cavity, outer cladding, and a vapor and air barrier. Together, these elements prevent water penetration while providing UV protection and enhanced shading. They can even improve your home’s thermal performance with exterior insulation.

How does a rainscreen work against moisture? This blog will explain the principles of the system to help you understand how it can benefit your home.

Keeps moisture out

Like every rainscreen system, the rainscreen siding provides a double-wall construction with an inner layer for thermal insulation and air leakage prevention and an outer layer to prevent rain and water from coming in.

Though it helps prevent moisture, that doesn’t mean it needs to be completely sealed. This way, the facade can ‘breathe.’ While the outer layer prevents rain from coming in, the vapor and air barrier or the cavity eliminates any water that gets into the panel joints via evaporation and drainage. As such, water doesn’t reach the thermal insulation or the base wall, and the building’s structural frame stays dry.

Creating an air gap

Rainscreen siding aims to establish an air gap to make your home moisture-resistant. With proper ventilation, moisture buildup will be the least of your problems. This is especially critical for homes built in humid climates, particularly in the southern US. To ensure this, high-quality rain screen systems are built without furring strips, which defeat their purpose. Furring strips make the system more complicated to install and hinder the air gap.

Pick the right rainscreen material.

Successful rainscreen installation can depend on the materials you use. At ABS Wood, we offer ipe, cumaru, and garapa rain screens to enhance your home’s aesthetics. These hardwoods are also durable, maintenance-free, moisture-resistant, and long-lasting.

Check out the options today!

Keep exploring ABS Wood to discover the best rainscreen siding for your property. Our team can also help you pick the best product based on your needs.

Garapa Decking vs. Other Wood Options: What Sets Garapa Apart

 

Are you planning to construct a deck? If so, consider Brazilian hardwoods. Brazilian hardwoods are known for their exceptional hardness, durability, appealing aesthetics, and long lifespan. As you explore the variety of choices, you will likely come across names like Ipe and Tigerwood. Both of these options are visually appealing, displaying rich brown or reddish colors and distinctive grain patterns.

However, another option to consider is Garapa Decking. This Brazilian hardwood is just as durable and attractive as its counterparts, but it stands out for its lighter hue. Garapa will allow you to build a sturdy deck that exhibits a unique lemon-yellow color, adding a distinctive touch to your outdoor leisure space. It even pairs well with other hardwoods, like Ipe, enabling you to design a uniquely appealing structure.

But there's more to Garapa than just its color. This hardwood has additional attributes that set it apart from other decking options. Let's delve deeper to uncover them:

Hardness

Garapa is 2280 lbf on the Janka hardness scale, making it significantly harder than oak (1360 lbf) and maple (1450 lbf). Hardness is one of the things that makes Brazilian hardwoods like garapa naturally deterrent against wood-destroying organisms, like termites. Insects cannot simply bite into the wood and burrow, so they are turned off and will switch to softer materials. Additionally, garapa’s hardness makes it scratch-resistant, so it’s an excellent decking material.

Rot-resistant

Wood rot and mold are common issues with most decking materials, but garapa decking prevents them by preventing water from seeping in. Though sun exposure will cause the wood to darken or turn gray over time, you can maintain the golden honey color by applying a UV-blocking finisher.

Fine grain

Looking closely, you will notice that garapa has a fine grain and striking streaks of brown. These are naturally occurring features on the hardwood, so they vary per decking material. However, that simply adds more charm and character to the material.

Cost

Garapa decking may be comparable to ipe in terms of durability and longevity. The difference is you can get garapa at a fraction of the cost of ipe wood, especially when you buy from a trusted source like ABS Wood.

Discover more about garapa wood at ABS Wood.

Our in-house experts are ready to supply garapa decking to your home or job site. Browse our website to see what’s available, and tell us what you need! We can also help you compare it further with other hardwoods we carry.

Wednesday 19 July 2023

The Top Reasons to Choose Garapa Decking for Your Home or Commercial Property

Oak is a widely used wood species for building decks on residential and commercial properties. And if you want something durable and low-maintenance, consider choosing garapa or Brazilian oak. It comes in an attractive light yellow color and boasts excellent properties like greater density, hardness, and scratch resistance. Keep reading to discover more reasons to choose garapa decking for your project.

It’s the color

You can’t go wrong with garapa if you want a brighter deck in sunny color. The wood’s natural golden honey color has a fine grain that makes it look more sophisticated. Plus, the appealing brown streaks add character to your deck. If you want it darker, you can simply apply a tinted finisher. Sun exposure ages the wood gracefully, turning it from yellow to an attractive russet golden brown color. To avoid graying, consider applying a UV-inhibitor finisher as part of deck maintenance.

For a durable, lasting deck

Garapa comes from the Amazon rainforest, so it naturally resists decay, insects, and water damage. On the Janka hardness scale, its hardness is 2280 lbf, making it significantly harder than oak (1360 lbf) and maple (1450 lbf). 

Additionally, it doesn’t require any form of preservative against those problems. High-quality and sustainably sourced garapa decking should last over 25 years, and the only maintenance it will need is the UV inhibitor, which can be optional if you want to let the color change naturally for a unique look.

Bug-resistant

Build your deck with garapa wood, and you’ll stop worrying about termites and other wood-destroying organisms destroying it. It naturally resists fungus and termites, but make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent water from permeating the wood.

Keeps your deck safe

Garapa decking is perfect for decks and around hot tubs or swimming pools because it is naturally slip-resistant. That means you can reduce accidents on your property, even when people walk around barefoot.

Environmentally friendly and reasonably priced

At ABS Wood, our garapa decking is harvested sustainably from forests to ensure a renewable material. Plus, we carry it at reasonable prices. Our products are ready to ship the materials to your job site or home. Order by calling 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840.

Trailer Decking Secrets: How to Maximize Your Payload Capacity

Trailers are commonly used for long-distance hauling or transportation of goods and cargo. As a result, they are widely utilized by businesses, particularly in the transportation and logistics sectors. Regardless of the type of trailer you own, paying attention to the flooring is crucial. If you’re experiencing difficulties in maximizing your payload or have observed signs of wear and tear, consider upgrading to a better trailer decking material.

But what factors should you consider, and how do you choose the best trailer decking? Here are all the basics you need to know.

Factors to consider

Take note of these factors before you proceed to choose a trailer decking:

  • Trailer load capacity: Ensure sufficient load capacity for large items, like machinery, appliances, and furniture.
  • Environmental conditions: Your trailer will be going places, so choose a decking material that can withstand any environment and weather conditions.
  • The nature of the loads you usually transport: Identify the loads you typically use your trailer for.
  • Budget: Make sure the decking is cost-effective in the long run.

Pick the right material.

Your trailer is meant to carry massive loads and cargo, so it makes sense to choose a decking material that can withstand heavy weights and maximize your capacity. For this purpose, we recommend Apitong, an exotic hardwood from Southeast Asia. Also known as Keruing, it’s a highly dense wood with less moisture content, making it perfect for trailer decking than oak and other woods. Plus, you’ll appreciate its affordability, durability, and sustainability!

Go low-maintenance

Apitong hardwood is very hard and heavy, ranking 1390 lb on the Janka hardness scale. With the low moisture content, these characteristics make the material less susceptible to shrinkage. Plus, it’s highly resistant and durable against wood-destroying organisms and fungi. It does not require special chemicals or treatments to keep it in good shape.

We can supply Apitong hardwood for you.

Check with us here at Advanced Building Supplies, Inc. for Apitong trailer decking. We supply decking in different sizes and lengths to suit most flatbed trailers. We can also shape blanks to suit your specific requirements. Contact us to get started!

 

Cumaru Decking - All the Things You Need to Know

So, you probably already know what Cumaru decking is and why it’s so popular. But do you understand the power of this beautiful hardwood? Here are some important facts that you need to understand before making your investment in this particular wood:

Visual quality

Cumaru is known for its density and interlocking grain pattern that creates a coarse, wavy texture. You will find yourself captivated by the stunning display of colors ranging from a soothing golden tan to a deep reddish brown, complete with long grain accents spread across its surface. The unique variation in grain patterns ensures that no two pieces of Cumaru decking are identical, providing a dramatic and beautiful appearance. Due to its wild and sophisticated beauty, many five-star hotels and large commercial projects opt for Cumaru hardwood for their decking needs. This type of wood blends seamlessly with any modern, traditional, or rustic setting.

Structural strength

Cumaru is known for its remarkable durability and resistance to harsh climates and punishments, as well as rot, decay, mold, and mildew. It has a Janka hardness rating of 3540lbs and a density of 1.07g/cm3 which makes it three times harder than regular teak decking and twice as hard as oak decking.

Its flexural strength is also high at 22,400 psi, allowing it to withstand more than 22,000 pounds per square inch before breaking. In terms of durability and strength rating for wood decking materials, Cumaru ranks second only to Ipe and outperforms many other popular kinds of wood, such as tigerwood and yellow pine. It also has a class A fire resistance rating making it an ideal choice for decks near fireplaces or campfires.

Conclusion

Cumaru decking is renowned for its natural beauty, structural strength, and durability. Its unique grain patterns make it an ideal choice for aesthetically-pleasing decks that are built to last. When considering Cumaru as your next decking material, you can rest assured knowing it will provide a stunning backdrop to your outdoor retreat for many years to come.

 

Cedar or Cumaru Wood— Which Is Better for Decking?

Having trouble choosing a decking material? You’re not alone. There are many choices to consider, from softwoods like Cedarwood to hardwoods like Cumaru and even synthetic options like PVC. How do you determine which choice is the best for your requirements?

Cedarwood vs. Cumaru wood as a decking material

·         Durability

Both Cumaru and Cedarwood are incredibly durable decking materials. Cumaru is a hardwood, which means it can withstand thousands of pounds of weight, according to the Janka Hardness Scale.  Cumaru also has longevity that can last decades even if you ignore it. 

Cedar is a little softer than Cumaru; however, it can still withstand a lot of weight. Moreover, this softwood has a natural resistance to insects, rot, and decay and can last for 15 to 20 years with proper care.

·         Design

It’s no secret that Cedar is one of the most beautiful decking options on the market. Known for its gorgeous reddish-brown heartwood, this softwood is further accentuated by thin layers of creamy, light brown sapwood. Cedar also has a fine and uniform texture with straight grains, making it easier to work with.

In comparison, Cumaru can range from medium tan to reddish brown. Its grain is fine but more pronounced, almost giving it a waxy look and feel. However, Cumaru will turn gray over timewithout regular finishing.  Gray does not mean any problems, it will still last decades. .

·         Maintenance

Both Cedar and Cumaru require proper care and maintenance. This is because they will be exposed to a variety of external elements, such as moisture and heat. However, Cedarwood is especially sensitive to dents and scratches because it is much softer than hardwoods.

It’s best to stain or seal your Cedar deck every few years to preserve its appearance. In addition, sealing can help prevent damage due to degradation and drying out when the deck is not installed in an ideal location.

Are you using Cedarwood, Cumaru wood, or a different type of material for your deck? No matter which you choose, make sure to purchase your supplies from a trusted provider in your area. Choose a supplier that offers high-quality materials for reasonable prices, ensuring that your deck lasts for years to come.

 

Wednesday 19 April 2023

Tigerwood Decking – Shock Resistance and Dimensionally Stable Decking

Do you want the beauty of Ipe hardwood on your decking but at a lower price point? Tigerwood decking can be a great alternative. It’s a Brazilian hardwood that is naturally biodegradable, durable, and long-lasting, making it suitable for exterior applications like your deck. Tigerwood and Ipe also complement each other, as the former features a brown graining pattern that goes well with the latter’s natural texture and grain.

Another reason to choose tigerwood is to become more sustainable without sacrificing looks. It’s the greener choice over composite products, and it provides a lovely finish to your deck with its light golden-brown or reddish-brown hues, with exotic brown and black stripes. Over time, the material dries to reddish brown.

The benefits of tigerwood decking go beyond its environmentally friendly and aesthetic qualities. It's the best material for a stable, shock-resistant deck.

A durable decking material

Tigerwood is the most exotic Brazilian hardwood in terms of materials, with natural resistance to decay and rot. Therefore, it has the potential to last for many years, possibly a lifetime. Also known as Brazilian Muirarcatiara, it is a very hard material with tight grain, making it resistant to termites and other wood-destroying organisms. Mold won’t have room to grow on your deck, even when the area is constantly wet or soaked in water.

It’s in the hardness.

Did you know that tigerwood is harder than oak or maple? It scores 2016 lbf on the Janka Hardness Scale versus the 1450 lbf of maple and the 1360 lbf of oak. That means your tigerwood decking is harder than a maple baseball bat or an oak floor. This hardness helps deter wood-boring insects, making them move on to softer woods. That makes the material better for outdoor applications than cedar or pine.

Preserve its colors

Tigerwood is low-maintenance but requires a high-quality finisher to prevent UV damage. Otherwise, the wood can turn gray. You don’t need to apply protective coatings and stains to keep it looking great for years.

 

IPE Brazilian Hardwood Decking Installation – Choosing the Right Stain Makes All The Difference

Staining Ipe Brazilian hardwood after installation will help preserve its beautiful color while protecting it from the elements and UV exposure. Without staining, UV exposure can speed up the transformation of the wood from its natural color to a silver-gray patina.

The right stain can make a big difference in the look and feel of the material for your deck and preserve your material’s aesthetics. It’s important to choose the right product that provides those benefits, so here are some tips to help you pick wood stains for your ipe decking.

Make sure it’s suitable for hardwoods.

Look for a high-quality, pigmented wood stain formulated for dense hardwoods like ipe. It will effectively penetrate the material and offer reliable protection against the elements. The pigment should enhance the reddish brown hues of Ipe Brazilian wood and prevent your deck from looking dry.

Refer to your home’s exterior

Choose an ipe wood decking stain that complements your home’s exterior. A darker stain can make the area stand out if the rest of your home is light-colored. On the other hand, a light stain can provide an attractive contrast to a dark-colored property.

Ensure sufficient protection levels

Consider the weather conditions in your area and the amount of rain and sun your deck receives every season. A solid or semi-transparent stain is a great choice if you want maximum protection for Ipe Brazilian wood against the elements. Keep in mind, however, that it will alter the color of the deck.

It’s okay to splurge.

Invest in a high-quality product that can last for many years to reduce your maintenance work and the need to re-stain every couple of years.

Stain your deck properly

It’s not enough to choose a high-quality stain for your deck. Be sure to do it at an appropriate time, preferably in the morning or evening, as the sun is not intense during those periods. That should prevent the stain from drying too fast, which can create streaks on Ipe Brazilian wood.

 

Thursday 19 January 2023

Ipe Hardwood Decking - The Best Choice for Wet Surfaces

Choosing the right material for your deck will ensure durability, beauty, and safety as you enjoy your outdoor lounging area for many years. Ipe hardwood is a good choice for its superior properties and features. It is among the hardest, densest woods that guarantees a long-lasting and durable structure that naturally resists decay, fire, mold, insects, and moisture damage. It’s also the best material for preventing unwanted accidents, as it offers slip resistance with its interlocking grain and fine texture.

Only premium grade ipe

Ipe tends to be the most expensive Brazilian hardwood, but its qualities make it worth every dollar, especially when it prevents slips and falls, which can result in costly hospitalization and treatment. Just be sure you are investing in high-quality premium grade ipe from a reputable supplier that sources from sustainably managed forests.

Ideal for exterior applications

Ipe hardwood is also known as Brazilian black walnut or ironwood because of its hardness. It's three times harder than an oak baseball bat, making it a popular material for building decks, docks, and other exterior uses. It withstands the elements and can last for decades with proper installation.

The material is ideal for exterior applications constantly exposed to moisture from rain and snow. Even when wet, the surface reduces the chances of an accident happening. You can confidently walk barefoot or wear footwear with minimal traction on your ipe deck.

Create safe and naturally beautiful surfaces

Ipe hardwood has a luxurious brown hue and grain you can maintain with a UV finisher to prolong its vibrant and natural color on your deck. Or you can let it transform into a silver-gray patina. The color change won’t affect its integrity, so you do not have to worry about the wood losing its strength over the years.