Important Things to Keep in Mind Before You Buy Ipe Decking

When you buy Ipe decking for your outdoor space, you're getting one of the most durable and attractive hardwoods available. This tropical hardwood is known for its incredible resistance to rot, mold, and insects. What's more, it can be sustainably harvested, making it an environmentally-friendly alternative to other types of wood. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind before you buy Ipe decking. 

First, you must realize that Ipe decking is not the cheapest choice. You'll need to shell out a little bit more, but you'll have a deck that will last for years. Ipe decking is dense, so if you plan on fastening it with nails, make sure to pre-drill the holes. Besides, if you plan to use screws, make sure you use high-quality stainless steel screws. Self-drilling screws and common plastic fasteners won't work on Ipe decking. Another important thing to keep in mind when buying Ipe decking at this site is that you need to maintain it properly. Initially, the decking may be dirty and have visible imperfections. But these can easily be remedied by sanding it with a #80 grit sandpaper. After sanding, make sure to sweep the deck to remove any excess dust. If you're unsure of the grade of the Ipe you're interested in, you can try samples of the wood before purchasing it. TimberTech is one company that offers free samples of their Ipe products, which are a good way to determine if the material you're looking at will work well on your property. It's also a good idea to test it outdoors first to make sure it's durable. 

Depending on the type of ipe wood decking you buy, you can expect the wood to vary in color from board to board. It ranges from light brown to dark brown and may have a golden hue. Depending on what you're looking for, Ipe decking can last up to 50 years. If you're looking for a sustainable green decking material, Ipe may be a good choice. Ipe is increasingly used for both new construction and retrofitting existing homes. This wood is 3 times harder than Oak and is especially durable in tropical climates. It's also easier to work with, thanks to modern tools. With a good quality tool, you can use it to cut, drill, and plank. Because of its high density, ipe decks have excellent grip and friction. You can walk on them without slipping on them, which is another reason to buy Ipe decking. Ipe is resistant to fungal growth, termites, and decay. 

It also has a Class A fire rating from the National Fire Protection Association. In addition, you don't have to worry about mold and mildew growth. Ipe decking is also relatively low maintenance. It requires little maintenance other than periodic oiling to maintain its color. Oiling every two years will keep the wood looking beautiful and protected. Get more facts about decks at https://www.encyclopedia.com/humanities/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/woodworking.