The Best Ipe Decking in Allston

Unlike composite decking composed of wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic or pressure-treated lumber filled with toxic chemicals, Ipe provides a sustainable option for Allston. It’s entirely natural, easily repurposable, and biodegradable, leaving no harmful residues. With no chemicals or plastics involved, Ipe embodies the essence of authentic wood. This resonates with Allston’s eco-conscious ethos, promoting a “Go Natural!” approach to decking selections.

Ipe’s remarkable Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, placing it among the world’s top 10 hardest woods, far surpasses Oak’s rating of about 1,200. Its density, often compared to concrete, ensures dimensional stability, longevity, and weather resistance. These attributes are crucial in Allston, where varying weather poses challenges for construction materials. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to significant expansion and contraction, leading to structural damage and decay, Ipe maintains its strength. This stability also prevents the raised wood grain issue common in softer woods, ideal for creating comfortable outdoor surfaces in Allston. While composite and plastic decking materials may sag over time due to movement, Ipe’s minimal expansion underscores its resilience and suitability for Allston’s climate.

Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods offer natural resistance to insects, a feature especially advantageous for Allston’s outdoor areas. Unlike domestic lumber needing chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has developed this resistance naturally. Originating from forests where insects excel at boring into wood, Ipe’s sturdy fibers are highly resistant to these pests. This resilience extends to insects in the United States, making Ipe an ideal option for places like Allston, where durability against the elements is vital. This insect resistance is a common benefit of most tropical hardwoods.

Ipe decking proves to be a cost-effective choice for Allston’s decking needs, contrary to common assumptions. While pressure-treated lumber lasts about 5-7 years and plastic or composite boards begin to fade and degrade within a few years, Ipe boasts a lifespan of 40-75 years, depending on environmental conditions. This extended longevity makes Ipe a more economical option, especially when factoring in the costs of replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times. The initial cost of Ipe decking is comparable to mid-grade composites and lower than high-end composites. Despite pressure-treated lumber appearing cheaper initially, the frequent replacements required make Ipe the smarter long-term investment, demonstrating its financial prudence for Allston’s decking needs.