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/