Ipe Decking Grades Explained: What Should You Actually Look for When Buying Ipe?

cali new mill pic web

Start shopping for Ipe decking and you’ll probably see terms such as Premium, Select, First Grade, FAS, Clear, B-Grade, Rustic, and Select Mill Run. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Well, not exactly. The problem is that those terms don’t always mean the same thing from one lumber supplier to another. One company’s “Premium” Ipe may look …

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Deck Lifespan Calculator – How Long Will Your Deck Last?

ipe pool deck web

A new deck can serve your home for decades, although materials, weather, and construction methods all affect its lifespan. With that in mind, our Decking Lifespan Calculator helps you compare the hardwood, composite, PVC, and framing products we sell at AdvantageLumber.com. How Long Does Hardwood Decking Last? To begin with, dense hardwoods naturally resist rot, …

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How Long Does Hardwood Decking Last? Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Teak & More

Decks by Kiefer Stowe Vt DECK 14

One of the first questions customers ask us when they look at hardwood decking is pretty simple: How long is this stuff actually going to last? Honestly, it’s a fair question. After all, if you’re spending the money to build a deck with Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Teak, or another premium hardwood, you probably don’t want …

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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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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 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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