There is a Brazilian hardwood called Ipe, pronounced "e-pay". This wood left untreated lasts a lifetime, hard as nails, slip-resistant when wet, etc. I believe this is the wood used in tractor trailers. Google Ipe.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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IPÊ ADVANTAGES
Why use IPÊ over
other decking materials™
IPÊ is an environmentally responsible choice which naturally resists rot, decay, insects, and mold without the use of toxic chemicals used in other decking products. It is naturally fire resistant and has been awarded an 'A1' rating.
Additionally, IPÊ is an incredibly strong, dense wood, harvested from naturally sustainable forests only. It has very high wear durability in daily use, and is resistant to splintering and checking.
It's also beautiful!
How long will my IPÊ deck last™
IPÊ has been awarded the best decay resistance rating available - "HIGH 25+ years", however it has been known to last longer, there just isn't a higher rating!
How does IPÊ weather™
Weather has little to no effect upon the structural integrity of IPÊ wood. The sun will eventually transform the wood from it's original reddish-brown to a beautiful silver patina.
Is IPÊ subject to
insect invasion and damage™
Due to the dense cell structure of IPÊ (all heart wood) it's not only naturally resistant to insects but also to decay, rot, and molds.
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SEALANTS
If I seal my new IPÊ deck,
how long before it
will need re-coating™
This is dependant upon the climate in which you install your IPÊ and the quality of sealer used, but generally in the Central Texas area, sealant should be applied yearly. We recommend Messmers Deck Sealer - available from Everwood Decking - used in conjunction with a latex end sealer.
Do I have to seal
my new IPÊ deck™
No, it will weather naturally to a beautiful silver patina. The boardwalk in Atlantic City has been 'natural' for many years, and still looks great.
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COST
How does IPÊ compare to
other decking material in cost™
IPÊ is an economical natural alternative to other woods when the entire life cycle of the deck or other outdoor project is considered.
When viewed over the lifespan of the decking, the material/labor costs are in line with much less quality decking materials
It is competitively priced with other premium decking products such as redwood and Western cedar. However, when the additional benefits of IPÊ (select grade wood, superior strength, extended lifespan, resistance to checking, splintering, fire, mold, and insect damage, etc.) are weighed, it is by far the superior product
