Ipe Specs
Ipe is in a class by itself. No other species of Brazilian Hardwood has been tested as thoroughly and as often as Ipe wood. Tested by the US Naval Laboratory, the US Forestry Laboratory, Ipe has proven to last longer than any other available decking material. One study showed that if you buried ipe in the ground, it can't be penetrated by wood boring insects for at least 15 years! The best part? Ipe resists termites, decay, and mold easily and without chemical treatments.
The natural density of this exotic hardwood from Brazil also means that it won't splinter easily. If you want a material that's safe for bare feet, you can be rest assured that Ipe won't get hot like composite decking material, or be as slippery. In fact, ipe dries fast and is a popular choice for many hotel pool decks.
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Ipe Wood Decking Features |
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Description |
Ipe heartwood is olive-brown with lighter or darker streaks. Grain is straight to irregular with a low to medium luster. The pores appear as fine yellow dots and contain yellowish lapachol powder which turns deep red in alkaline solutions. Texture is fine and appears oily. Fine ripple marks may be present. Weight varies between 60 lbs to 75 lbs per cu. ft. Kiln dried Ipe is for interior use. Kiln dried lumber outside will expand. Air dried Ipe is for exterior use. Air dried lumber inside will shrink. |
Country of Origin |
South America (Brazil) |
Botanical Name |
Tabebuia spp. |
Other Names |
Pau D'Arco, Ipe Tabaco, Yellow Poui, Bethabara, Pau Lope®, Ironwood® |
Mechanical Properties |
Very high strength in all categories. Resistant to bending. A very strong, tough, resilient wood. |
| Janka | 3680 |
Working Properties |
Difficult to saw and carbide tipped blades are recommended. Reduced cutting angle required for planing or molding. Pre-drilling required for nailing. Holds screws well. Stains and polishes well. Eye and face masks prevent machine dust irritation. |
Durability |
Very high resistance to all insect and fungal attacks and is very durable. Extremely resistant to preservative treatment. |
Seasoning |
Dries rapidly with slight warping, cupping, twisting and end checking. Slow kiln drying is recommended. Very small movement. |
Uses |
Ideal for bridges, naval construction, and dock work, exterior construction, etc. It is also used for turning, factory flooring, tool handles, archery bows, walking sticks, fishing rods, cabinet work, and veneers. It is considered by many to be the best choice for decking material in the world. |
Comments |
Specific gravity is 1.08. This wood is so dense that it does not float! |
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