The Best Ipe Decking in Bessemer

Unlike composite decking or pressure-treated lumber, Ipe provides a more environmentally friendly option for Bessemer. It’s entirely natural, biodegradable, and free from harmful chemicals or plastics. Ipe’s authenticity resonates with Bessemer’s commitment to environmental awareness, promoting a “Go Natural!” ethos in decking selections.

Ipe’s exceptional hardness, with a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, far surpasses that of Oak at about 1,200, making it a prime choice for Bessemer. Its density and durability, comparable to concrete, ensure dimensional stability and weather resistance, crucial attributes for Bessemer’s variable climate. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to damage and decay, Ipe maintains its integrity, offering long-lasting performance. Additionally, its minimal movement prevents raised wood grain, ideal for creating smooth, safe surfaces in Bessemer’s outdoor areas. This resilience contrasts with the sagging often seen in composite and plastic decking materials, emphasizing Ipe’s suitability for Bessemer’s conditions.

Ipe’s exceptional durability, capable of withstanding extreme weather for decades, is perfectly tailored to Bessemer’s climate. Its density and hardness play pivotal roles in this resilience. Moreover, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay harmonizes with Bessemer’s humid conditions. Adapted from rainforests accustomed to heavy rainfall, Ipe naturally fends off water penetration, mold, and decay. These inherent qualities position it as the ideal choice for enduring Bessemer’s distinctive weather patterns while maintaining unmatched quality and longevity.

Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods possess natural insect resistance, a valuable trait for Bessemer’s outdoor environments. Unlike domestic lumber, which needs chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has developed this resistance naturally. Originating from forests where insects are skilled at boring into wood, Ipe’s robust wood fibers are highly resistant to these pests. This resilience also extends to insects in the United States, making Ipe an ideal choice for areas like Bessemer, where durability against natural elements is essential. This insect resistance is a typical advantage of tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone areas like many states in the southwestern United States and large urban projects, the selection of construction materials is significantly influenced by fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier decking material in these situations due to its outstanding flame resistance. It consistently receives an A Class rating from engineering organizations, alongside steel and concrete. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically have lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class.

Despite common assumptions, Ipe decking proves to be a cost-effective option in the long run for Bessemer. While pressure-treated lumber typically lasts 5-7 years and plastic/composite boards degrade within a few years, Ipe offers a lifespan of 40-75 years, depending on environmental factors. This extended longevity outweighs the initial cost, especially when compared to the expenses of replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times. The upfront expense of Ipe is similar to mid-grade composites and less than high-end composites. Although pressure-treated lumber may seem cheaper initially, the need for frequent replacement makes Ipe the more economical choice in the long term, demonstrating its financial wisdom for Bessemer’s decking needs.