Brazilian Ipe decking, Home patio hardwood deck, House terrace material guide

Brazilian Ipe Decking – Hardwood Deck Material

12 September 2024

Brazilian Ipe Decking : Discover the Unmatched Strength and Beauty of Premium Decking Solutions

Of all the decking options in the market, one choice reigns supreme: Brazilian Ipe. Incredibly durable and almost maintenance-free, this hardwood is the premium choice if you want to build a deck that lasts.

Brazilian Ipe: The undisputed champion of decking

Ipe seems to defy the elements. It boasts superior hardness and resistance to nature’s worst — from scorching summers to torrential rains — without flinching. And because it endures heavy foot traffic, you can count on your Ipe deck to maintain its integrity even if you regularly use it for backyard barbecues and poolside lounging.

What’s more, Brazilian Ipe is a timeless classic that defies trends. This natural stunner has a luxuriously dark hue that gracefully transforms into a sophisticated silver-gray patina over the years. And it doesn’t take much work to preserve this beauty: just give it a gentle cleaning with mild soap and water. No harsh chemicals or high-pressure washing required.

Concerned about the environment? No problem. Ipe wood is a sustainable choice. While there are concerns about deforestation in the Amazon, responsibly sourced Ipe comes from well-managed forests that are certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council. And because Ipe decks last for decades, you don’t have to constantly repair or replace your deck, therefore minimizing your overall impact on the planet.

Brazilian Ipe vs. other decking materials

Here’s a quick look at how Ipe outshines cheaper alternatives:

Pressure-treated wood –This budget-friendly wood often falls short when it comes to longevity and durability. It’s prone to warping, splitting, and rot, so you will end up spending a lot more on repairs and replacements down the line.
Composite decking – While composites are low maintenance and resistant to decay, they don’t have the natural beauty of Brazilian Ipe. They also tend to fade, scratch, and even develop mold over time.

Cost considerations

Brazilian Ipe decking costs more upfront but is a wise investment in the long run because it is durable and easy to care for. You can enjoy a beautiful and long-lasting outdoor space without worrying about costly repairs or replacements.

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Brazilian Ipe installation tips

Your deck’s durability is only as good as its installation. Follow these steps to ensure that your Ipe wood deck lasts:

Use stainless steel screws to prevent rust and damage. Not all stainless steel screws are created equal, so choose the right type. Avoid lower grades (below 305 grade) as they can cause discoloration around the screw head and are more prone to corrosion. Instead, choose 305-grade stainless steel or higher. This ensures the best results and protects your investment in your deck.
Pre-drill holes to stop the wood from splitting due to its density. Choose the right screw size and create pilot holes that are slightly smaller than the screw diameter. Don’t skip this step. Keep in mind that splitting can cause irreparable damage to your deck boards. By taking the time to pre-drill, you’ll ensure a longer-lasting and more attractive deck.
Leave space between boards to accommodate natural changes (expansion) in the wood.

Check your deck often for damage and address issues promptly.

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Brazilian Ipe maintenance tips

You will invest money into your Brazilian Ipe deck, so it’s only prudent to do what you can to make it last longer. Thankfully, maintenance is a breeze. You can keep your Ipe deck looking its best with these simple steps:

Regularly clean your deck with mild detergent and water to remove dirt and grime.
Avoid harsh treatments. Steer clear of strong chemicals and pressure washers to protect the wood.

If you wish, you can apply a penetrating oil finish every few years to shield the wood from sun and moisture damage.

If you’re interested in using Brazilian Ipe for your deck project, order your materials from ABS Wood. Call us at 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840, or email us at info@abswood.com to get a quote.

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