Deck building

Premium IPE Decking is virtually indestructible decking that lasts a lifetime, without maintenance. IPE is approximately twice as heavy as oak and four to five times heavier than cedar or redwood. IPE can be stained with a recommended V inhibitive pigmented, oil based sealer to maintain the original color and enhance the natural beauty of the wood. This will also help seal the wood and minimize shrinkage and swelling. IPE can be painted but only with solid color stains to create a painted look. IPE is available in all standard decking and porch flooring profiles and sizes. After installation IPE does not require any sealers to maintain their durability, to resist rot, to resist termites, to prevent cupping and warping, or to keep it from splintering. Without a sealer IPE weathers to a silvery gray. To enhance the stabilization process into your climate, or to retain the original color, a sealer may be applied to the finished deck.

IPE originates in Brazil, Indonesia and Africa. IPE suppliers are certified by the International Timber Organization and the Brazilian Government for meeting proper forest management codes. Due to the high density of IPE, the boards will need to be pre-drilled before nailing or screwing. When using self drilling screws the countersinks will need to be pre-bored. It is recommended to attach thru the face of the boards. IPE is not kiln dried, it is milled after air drying and shipped when the moisture content is typically 18% and 20%. There may be shrinking or swelling of plus or minus 2 -4 %.

Although the wood is a hardwood and feels very smooth, after weathering, the minor surface checking will usually eliminate any problem of slipping when wet. Also, unlike softwoods, IPE's density minimizes the ability for mold to grow, one of the main causes of slippery wood surfaces. IPE has a high natural resistance to termites, decay, and marine borers and are among the highest rated timbers in U.S. Forest Products Lab testing. The fire rating for IPE is the same as steel and concrete; Class A by the SFPA Code and Class 1 by the UBC Code.

IPE is in the same price range as other high quality decking materials, such as clear grades of redwood or cedar and composite materials.