If you’re seeking information on Ipe hardwood, including its uses, price, and available suppliers, it is worth noting that this particular type of tropical hardwood is widely regarded as one of the most resilient woods currently available. Not only does it possess impressive strength, but it also boasts exceptional resistance to rot and decay, in addition to its inherent natural beauty. Among its many applications, some of the most common uses of Ipe hardwood include:
Decking
Ipe is widely regarded as the premier natural wood decking material currently available on the market, boasting exceptional durability and weather resistance. With a fire rating equivalent to that of steel and impressive crush resistance, it's ideally suited for use in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and public spaces requiring long-lasting performance.
Siding
The use of Ipe siding has grown significantly in recent years, with both residential and commercial properties embracing its versatility. It is well-suited for traditional wood siding and a natural element in modern architectural designs. Premium Ipe siding offers an attractive architectural feature that can endure for many years due to the superior technical properties of this material.
Docks
Ipe is the only hardwood species that satisfies the slip resistance criteria mandated by ADA in a wet setting without additional components. This attribute is particularly important in areas that are consistently exposed to moisture, such as Ipe docks, floats, marinas, or piers.
Pricing
Ipe wood comes at a higher price point when compared to various other decking materials, with installation costs ranging from $25 to $65 per square foot. This is primarily attributed to the local labor costs, which can range from $20 to $45 per square foot. The reason for this is that Ipe wood is extremely dense, making it difficult and time-consuming to work with, requiring specialized equipment for installation.
Supplier
When choosing an Ipe supplier, it is important to consider a company that is experienced in the industry and can offer sound advice on the best options for your particular project. Take the time to research the company’s history and credentials to ensure that you will receive a quality product.
Find an Ipe hardwood supplier that best suits your needs, so you can begin enjoying all of the incredible benefits this tropical wood has to offer. With its unrivaled durability and strength, Ipe will surely help create an enduring outdoor space for years to come.
About the Author:
Bruce Master is the general manager at Advanced Building Supplies. Advanced Building Supplies, aka ABSWood, specializes in a full line of Brazilian Hardwood products, including Ipe, Garapa, Cumaru, and Tigerwood. Exotic woods is a natural outgrowth for Bruce as he comes from a long line of woodworkers. His Grandfather and Father were both respected wood craftsmen and cabinet makers. In addition to managing ABS, Bruce designs, plans, and installs his own decks. Before selling Brazilian Hardwoods, Bruce worked as a generalist at a huge Ace Hardware in Miami, Florida, that catered to an almost exclusive clientele of contractors working on Miami Beach.
