Why Hardwood Decking Can Outlast the Deck Framing Underneath It

deck with ipe oil sm1

Here’s a situation we’ve seen more than a few times over the years. A homeowner builds a beautiful Ipe or Cumaru deck over a traditional pressure treated wood frame. Then, ten or fifteen years later, they look at the deck boards and think, “These still look pretty good.” And I mean really good in some …

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What Happens If You Never Oil an Ipe Deck?

ipe wood decking grey

Ipe is one of the most durable decking materials, but homeowners often wonder whether regular oiling is necessary to keep it that way. You do not have to oil an Ipe deck for the wood to remain naturally durable. However, if you never apply a finish, the deck’s color will change over time. Without a …

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Garapa vs. Ipe: Is the Extra Cost of Ipe Worth It?

ipe vs garapa decking

When comparing hardwood decking, Garapa and Ipe are two options worth considering. Both are durable tropical hardwoods that can be used for decking and other exterior projects, and both offer natural resistance to insects and decay. The biggest differences come down to hardness, appearance, and price. Ipe is known for its exceptional durability and dark, …

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Cumaru vs. Tigerwood: Comparing Two Affordable Ipe Alternatives

cumaru vs tigerwood decking

If you like how Ipe looks and performs but the price pushes your project budget a little too far, you may have several tropical hardwoods worth considering. In particular, homeowners often compare Cumaru vs. Tigerwood when deciding between alternatives. And really, who doesn’t have a budget to think about? In particular, two of the most …

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Ipe vs. Teak Decking: Which Premium Hardwood Fits Your Project?

ipe vs teak decking

Look, I’ll just say it up front: I’ve had this conversation more times than I can count. Teak carries a reputation that boat builders built over centuries. Indeed, they reached for it because the oils kept hulls from rotting in salt water. At the same time, furniture makers reached for it because the boards stayed …

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What Is Thermowood? A Contractor’s Guide to Thermally Modified Wood

adv thermal ash sidingrainscreen

If you’ve been looking at premium siding, decking, saunas, or outdoor ceilings lately, you’ve probably run across the term Thermowood®. And if you haven’t yet, you probably will. I’ve noticed it coming up more and more whenever someone wants real wood but also wants to know what newer options may be out there. At first …

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What Happens to Ipe Decking During the Fall and Winter?

hardwood deck ice melt web wm

Ipe is known for being one of the most durable hardwoods available for outdoor projects. Its density and natural resistance to decay make it a popular choice for decks exposed to changing weather throughout the year. But what actually happens to Ipe decking when fall arrives and winter follows? Falling leaves, rain, freezing temperatures, snow, …

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