The Best Ipe Decking in Biddeford

In contrast to composite decking with its blend of wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic, and pressure-treated or reclaimed lumber laden with harmful chemicals, Ipe emerges as a greener option for Biddeford. Being entirely natural, it’s easily repurposable and biodegradable, leaving behind no harmful residues. Chemical-free and devoid of plastics, Ipe embodies the authenticity of pure wood, resonating with Biddeford’s environmental ethos, advocating for natural decking alternatives.

Ipe, ranked among the world’s top 10 hardest woods, boasts a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, far surpassing Oak’s rating of approximately 1,200. Its concrete-like hardness and density ensure dimensional stability, prolonged lifespan, and resistance to weathering. These attributes are crucial in Biddeford, where variable weather can test construction materials. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to significant expansion and contraction, which damages cell structure and accelerates decay, Ipe maintains its integrity. This stability also averts the raised wood grain issue common in softer woods, a boon for barefoot-friendly surfaces in Biddeford’s outdoor areas. While composite and plastic decking materials often lose rigidity over time due to movement, Ipe’s minimal expansion and contraction underscore its durability and suitability for Biddeford’s climate.

Ipe’s remarkable longevity, proven to withstand decades of harsh weather, makes it an ideal fit for Biddeford’s climate. Its density and hardness significantly contribute to this durability. Furthermore, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay perfectly aligns with Biddeford’s humid conditions. Originating from rainforests accustomed to 100-400 inches of annual rainfall, far more than typical U.S. climates, Ipe has evolved to resist water infiltration, mold, and decay. These characteristics render it a perfect option for enduring Biddeford’s distinct weather patterns while maintaining quality and lifespan.

Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods naturally resist insects, a feature especially advantageous for Biddeford’s outdoor environments. Unlike domestic lumber needing chemical treatments against wood-boring insects, Ipe has evolved 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 U.S. insects, making Ipe a superb option for locales like Biddeford, where durability against the elements is paramount. Such insect resistance is a widespread benefit of tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone areas such as many southwestern U.S. states and major urban projects, the selection of construction materials heavily considers fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier decking material in these situations due to its outstanding flame resistance. It consistently earns an A Class rating from engineering organizations, alongside steel and concrete. Conversely, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically receive lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class. This aspect is crucial even for locales like Biddeford, emphasizing Ipe’s suitability for various environments.

Despite common assumptions, Ipe decking proves to be not more expensive than alternatives in the long run. While pressure-treated lumber lasts around 5-7 years before deteriorating, and plastic and composite boards often fade and degrade within a few years, Ipe boasts a significantly longer lifespan of 40-75 years, depending on environmental factors. This extended durability renders Ipe a more cost-effective choice, especially when considering the expenses linked with replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times throughout one Ipe installation. The initial cost of Ipe decking aligns with mid-grade composites and falls below high-end composites. Although pressure-treated lumber may appear cheaper upfront, the frequent replacements required make Ipe more economical over time, establishing it as a financially prudent option for Biddeford’s decking requirements, both short and long term.