Ipe (ee-pay)
This fantastic and durable South American Hardwood is
rated by the US Forest Products Lab for 25 years plus. It is resistant to fire naturally, has a rating of Class A by the NFPA or
class 1 by the UBC, resists insects, moisture, and movement. This wood is perfect for exterior residential and commercial
applications such as boat docks, decking, boardwalks, outdoor furniture, etc. It can be sealed to maintain its natural color and
beauty, or weathered to a beautiful silver gray color.
It is available in various standard dimensions and
can be cut with standard carbide tipped blades. It does however require predrilling and screwing with stainless steel screws or
hidden fastening systems. Standard decking size is 4/4 material not 5/4 or 8/4. On 24" centers the 4/4 material will provide a
100 lb. load rating far better than any cedar, redwood, or CCA pressure treated material. It has a hardness rating of 3640 Janka,
almost 3 times better than that of Red Oak. Ipe is also resistant to surface checking and naturally resistant to molds which are
2 of the most destructive forces to deck faces.
When compared to other woods such as redwood, cedar,
or copper chromium arsenate pressure treated materials, Ipe lasts much longer (3-5 times the life span), a stronger resistance to
fire, insects, weather and movement while it is priced competitively with high grades of cedar or redwood. By comparison, the
value of Ipe is very clearly the best timber product for outdoor usage bar none.
Handling and Storage: Ipe is supplied
partially air dried and should be stored out of direct sunlight and allowed to stabilize and acclimate to the installation
environment humidity levels before installation. It is best to allow for groundside ventilation in the design as proper air
circulation is necessary for long term stability of Ipe. When installing, allow 1/16" gap between the deck boards for circulation
of air. When Ipe is fully seasoned, shrinkage of approx. 1/16" on 4" wide boards to 1/8" on 6" wide boards may be
expected.
Cutting and Drilling: Premium carbide tipped
saw blades and high quality drills are recommended for smooth cuts due to the hardness of Ipe. Pre drill a pilot hole and
countersink when using screws as fasteners.
End Sealing: Ends should be sealed immediately
after cutting using a clear aqueous wax end sealer to reduce end checking.
Fastening: Coated or galvanized steel
fasteners may be used, but they tend to have a shorter life span and may cause staining of the wood. Stainless steel screws are
considered the best and they will also eliminate potential chemical reactions or staining at the fastener location.
Allowable Ipe Spans
|
Nominal Size
|
40psf
|
60psf
|
100psf
|
| 1 x 6 |
32" |
28" |
24" |
| 5/4 x 6 |
42" |
38" |
32" |
| 2 x 4 |
62" |
56" |
48" |
These spans are designed for minimal deflection of the deck surface Finishing: Ipe may be sealed upon installation to
reduce the potential of checking. Penetrating oil based finishes are used with Ipe by most installers. Excessive application of
oil based sealers may create a sticky surface and will not enhance or extend their performance. To maintain and keep the rich
natural walnut-like color of Ipe, use a pigmented, penetrating oil sealer with UV inhibitors. Reapply as needed, or, if you wish
the natural weathering to a silver gray, apply a penetrating oil based sealer during installation and do not reseal...
ever.
Decking Comparison Chart for Ipe vs
Redwood, Pine & Cedar
|
Common Name
|
Ipe
|
Cedar
|
Redwood
|
CCA Southern Pine
|
|
Grade
|
Clear, all-heart, No knots, No sapwood
|
Varies, common grades have knots and
sapwood |
Varies, common grades have knots and
sapwood |
Varies, available grades have knots and other
defects |
|
Appearance
|
Surface stays smooth and resists
scratches. No sealers required. Develops a silvery patina from UV exposure and small surface checks. Some splintering may occur. |
Scratches easily. Splinters, becomes a dirty gray
without regular cleaning and applying of sealers. |
Scratches easily. Splinters, becomes a dirty
black/gray without regular cleaning and applying of sealers |
Surface develops large splits. Splinters, boards
twist and cup, surface becomes rough without regular application of sealers, cleaners, and power washing. |
|
Decay Resistance
|
High 25 years plus |
Moderate 10-15 years |
Moderate 10-15 years |
Varies with treatment |
|
Fire Rating Class-NFPA
|
A |
B-C |
B-C |
C-D |
|
Resistance to Termites
|
High |
Low |
Low |
Varies with treatment |
|
Resistance to Marine Borers
|
High |
Low |
Low |
Varies with treatment |
|
Movement in Service
|
Low |
Medium |
Medium |
Medium to High |
|
Weight (per cu. ft.)
|
69 lbs |
30 lbs |
30 lbs |
35 lbs |
|
Bending Strength
|
25,400 psi |
6,800 psi |
7,900 psi |
14,500 psi |
|
Modulus of Elasticity
|
3,140,000 psi |
930,000 psi |
1,000,000 psi |
1,700,000 psi |
|
Max. Shear Strength
|
2,060 |
900 |
940 |
1,370 |
|
Hardness
|
3,680 lbs |
580 lbs |
480 lbs |
690 lbs |
Click here
to request a quote - we offer VERY competitive pricing!
Return to Ipe's Main Page
Austin Wholesale Decking
Supply
10900 N Lamar Blvd.,
Austin, TX 78753
Phone: 512/834-1200
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