The Best Ipe Decking in Brookfield

Ipe offers a sustainable alternative to composite decking and pressure-treated lumber in Brookfield. Unlike composite materials, which include non-recyclable plastics, and pressure-treated lumber containing harmful chemicals, Ipe is entirely natural, biodegradable, and can be repurposed without generating harmful byproducts. Free from chemicals and plastics, Ipe embodies the purity of authentic wood. This eco-friendly option resonates with Brookfield’s commitment to environmental consciousness, promoting a “Go Natural!” ethos in decking selections.

Ipe, one of the world’s hardest woods, boasts a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, significantly surpassing Oak’s rating of approximately 1,200. Its remarkable hardness and density, often likened to concrete, contribute to its dimensional stability, prolonged lifespan, and resistance to weather elements. These attributes hold particular significance in Brookfield, Wisconsin, where fluctuating weather conditions can pose challenges to construction materials. In contrast to pressure-treated wood, which is susceptible to substantial expansion and contraction leading to structural damage and decay, Ipe maintains its structural integrity. This stability also addresses the issue of raised wood grain commonly observed in softer woods, making it an ideal choice for creating smooth and comfortable outdoor surfaces in Brookfield. Unlike composite and plastic decking materials, which may lose rigidity over time due to thermal expansion and contraction, resulting in sagging, Ipe’s minimal movement in similar conditions underscores its durability and suitability for the climate in Brookfield.

Ipe’s exceptional durability, capable of lasting for decades even in harsh weather, is well-suited to Brookfield, Wisconsin’s climate. Its density and hardness play significant roles in its longevity. Moreover, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay resonates with Brookfield’s humid conditions. Originating from rainforests experiencing 100-400 inches of rain annually, significantly more than standard U.S. climates, Ipe has evolved to resist water intrusion, mold, and decay naturally. These characteristics render it a perfect option for withstanding Brookfield’s distinct weather patterns while maintaining its quality and lifespan.

Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods offer a natural resistance to insects, a feature highly advantageous for outdoor spaces in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Unlike domestic lumber, which often necessitates chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has evolved this resistance naturally. Originating from forests where insects are proficient at boring into wood, Ipe’s robust wood fibers are highly resistant to these pests. This resilience also extends to insects commonly found in the United States, making Ipe an ideal option for regions like Brookfield, where durability against natural elements is paramount. This insect resistance is a shared benefit among most tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone regions such as many states in the southwestern United States and major urban construction projects, the selection of construction materials is significantly impacted by fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier decking material in these contexts owing to its remarkable flame resistance. It is among the select few materials, including steel and concrete, to consistently achieve an A Class rating from engineering rating organizations. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically receive lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class.

Contrary to common assumptions, Ipe decking does not incur higher costs than alternatives in the long run. While pressure-treated lumber typically lasts around 5-7 years before deteriorating, and plastic and composite boards often begin to fade and degrade within a few years, Ipe offers a significantly longer lifespan of 40-75 years, depending on environmental factors. This extended longevity renders Ipe a more cost-efficient choice, particularly when considering the expenses associated with replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times over the lifespan of a single Ipe installation. The initial cost of Ipe decking is comparable to mid-grade composites and lower than high-end composites. Although pressure-treated lumber may appear cheaper initially, the frequent replacements required make Ipe a more financially prudent option in the long term, establishing it as a smart investment for decking needs in Brookfield, Wisconsin, both in the short and long term.