Ask anyone who owns an ipe wood deck and the first thing they usually mention is how their deck is both rugged, and yet beautiful. These deck owners have every reason to feel good about the ipe wood that they purchased. Why? Ipe Wood is a 100 percent natural decking material that is of the highest quality. Not only will you find this tropical hardwood in thousands of homes across the world, but also on commercial projects. From boardwalks, to restaurant flooring, you can find architects specifically choosing ipe wood because of the confidence they have in its durability.
The people who review ipe wood decking will tell you that this material is well worth the investment, especially when you consider that ipe wood prices are comparable to both teak and composite decking. Ipe wood can last up to 100 years with standard deck oil treatments. In addition, you wont find many complaints about ipe. In fact, this exotic wood is so durable that many people spend much more time enjoying the time spent on their ipe deck. Just Google composite decking reviews and I doubt youll find that composite plastic decking can make the same claim.
How can these deck owners give such rave reviews? Ipe wood is known for its beauty, durability, and resistance to almost all forms of weathering and destruction. It its bug resistant, fire resistant, UV degradation resistant, mold resistant, and warp resistant. This hardwood comes from trees that are extremely durable, dense, and harder to warp. It is a practical choice for indoor and outdoor use because it has a Class A fire rating. Thats the same classification as both concrete and steel.
Another reason why people love their Ipe wood is because it does not fade easily when it is unfinished. It requires little maintenance. When you compare it to teak, or composite deck materials, Ipe wood has an attractive color that enhances virtually any home and landscaping. It often has an appearance similar to teak wood, which is usually used for boat decks and outdoor furniture. It has a rich dark-brown. It will gradually age to a silver-grey if left untreated. It can be oiled to retain its brown color. Labor is required only to apply treatments and UV protection to keep whatever level of beauty you choose.
Finally, if after reading those reviews, youre ready to buy ipe wood; be sure to order premium grade material. Also, be aware that sizes like 1×6 and 5/4×4, and 5/4×6 ipe are much more durable and versatile than the typical 1×4 deck board.
Best of luck with your deck building experience!