Climate Control Tips for Maintaining Brazilian Wood Decking

Aside from their attractive aesthetics, Brazilian hardwoods are popular because of their remarkable strength. When ranked on the Janka hardness scale (which measures how hard a type of wood is), these hardwoods — even the softer ones — prove to be tougher and more reliable than the hardest types of North American wood.

 

But of course, we cannot deny the fact that temperature and humidity levels play a big role in maintaining Brazilian wood decking in good condition. Here are some of the best tips you can follow to make sure that you are avoiding potential problems that can be caused by climate factors.

 

Understand the wood

 

Before anything else, you should understand how your chosen Brazilian hardwood behaves under different temperatures and humidity levels. Wood is known to expand and contract as its surrounding environment changes, and this is no different from Brazilian hardwood. It's important to note that even if these hardwoods are extremely durable, they are still susceptible to damage when placed in the wrong climate conditions.

 

Acclimatization

 

Acclimatization is very important for all types of Brazilian wood decking. Allow your Brazilian hardwood — whether it be Ipe, Cumaru, or another variety — to acclimatize for 14 – 21 days in the area where it will be installed. Make sure that the wood is kept out of direct sunlight and placed in a location with adequate ventilation. It's common for Brazilian wood decking to expand or contract up to ¼” during the acclimatization process, so it's important to give it enough time before installation.

 

Moisture content

 

It's important to think about how much moisture Brazilian hardwoods like Ipe contain before using them outdoors. Normally, air-dried Ipe has a moisture level of about 18%, which helps it stay stable through different types of weather like heat, rain, wind, and changes in temperature. This moisture level can help the wood last up to 75 years. On the other hand, kiln-dried Ipe has lower moisture, around 8-10%, which affects how much it expands and shrinks. Knowing these moisture levels will help you prepare your wood decking for the outdoors, making it stronger and longer-lasting.

 

Proper installation and ventilation

 

When building decks that are close to the ground, it's important to make sure there's room for air to flow around the decking boards. This helps the wood handle temperature changes without problems. If air can flow freely, the wood is less likely to bend or cup as it gets used to new conditions. In areas with a lot of humidity, good airflow keeps the wood dry and prevents mold growth. In drier places, it stops the wood from drying out quickly, which can cause splits. By allowing air to circulate, you help the wood adjust naturally to the weather, keeping your deck strong and nice to look at for years.

 

Sealing

 

To prevent Ipe decking from splitting at the ends, apply a quality end sealant. The sealant acts as a protective barrier that shields the wood from excess moisture that could compromise its stability. This is particularly important because moisture fluctuations can lead to expansion and contraction, causing wear and tear over time. By sealing the edges, this risk is minimized, and the deck is better equipped to handle weather changes. Sealing can enhance the natural color of Ipe wood and protect it from UV rays that may cause fading.

 

Regular maintenance

 

Even with proper installation, ventilation, sealing, and high-quality materials, regular maintenance is key to keeping your Ipe decking in top condition. This includes cleaning the surface regularly to remove dirt and debris that can cause damage over time. Don’t forget to inspect the deck for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or splits. These should be repaired immediately to prevent further damage.

 

For high-quality and sustainability-sourced Brazilian wood decking materials, ABS WOOD is one of the most reputable suppliers in the market. We offer a wide range of Ipe decking options as well as accessories to make your project the best it can be. Call our team today at 352-508-4990 404 or 549-4840.