The Best Ipe Decking in Commerce

In contrast to composite decking composed of wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic, as well as pressure-treated or reclaimed lumber laden with toxic chemicals detrimental to ecosystems, Ipe emerges as a more environmentally friendly option for Commerce, Michigan. Being entirely natural, it’s ideal for repurposing and biodegradable, posing no risk of harmful byproducts. With no chemicals or plastics involved, Ipe embodies the authenticity of 100% real wood, resonating with Commerce’s environmental awareness and advocating for “Go Natural!” when it comes to decking selections.

Ipe, ranked among the world’s top 10 hardest woods with a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, significantly surpasses Oak’s rating of approximately 1,200. Its density and hardness, often likened to concrete, contribute to its dimensional stability, prolonged lifespan, and resilience against varying weather conditions. These attributes are particularly pertinent in Commerce, Michigan, where fluctuating weather patterns can pose challenges to construction materials. In contrast to pressure-treated wood, which is susceptible to significant expansion and contraction leading to cell structure damage and accelerated decay, Ipe maintains its structural integrity over time. This stability also mitigates the common issue of raised wood grain found in softer woods, offering an advantage for creating smooth, barefoot-friendly surfaces in Commerce’s outdoor environments. While composite and plastic decking materials may experience loss of rigidity due to expansion and contraction, resulting in sagging, Ipe’s minimal movement under similar conditions underscores its durability and suitability for Commerce’s climate.

The remarkable durability of Ipe, capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions for decades, is especially fitting for Commerce, Michigan’s climate. Its density and hardness significantly contribute to this resilience. Furthermore, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay perfectly complements Commerce’s humid environment. Derived from rainforests experiencing 100-400 inches of annual rainfall, far exceeding typical U.S. climates, Ipe has naturally evolved to resist water infiltration, mold, and decay. These characteristics render it an optimal selection for enduring Commerce’s distinctive weather variations while maintaining both quality and longevity.

Ipe and comparable tropical hardwoods possess a natural resistance to insects, a characteristic especially advantageous for outdoor areas in Commerce, Michigan. Unlike domestic lumber, which often necessitates chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has evolved this resistance organically. Originating from forests where wood-boring insects are prevalent, Ipe’s sturdy wood fibers are highly resistant to such pests. This resilience extends to the insects commonly found in the United States, making Ipe an excellent option for regions like Commerce, where durability against environmental elements is paramount. This insect resistance is a shared benefit among many tropical hardwoods.

In regions prone to fires, such as several states in the southwestern United States and significant commercial projects in urban areas, the selection of construction materials is significantly impacted by their fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier decking material in such situations due to its outstanding flame resistance. It is among the select few materials, alongside steel and concrete, to consistently attain an A Class rating from engineering rating organizations. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically exhibit 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 boasts a significantly longer lifespan of 40-75 years, contingent on environmental conditions. This extended durability renders Ipe a more economically viable choice, particularly when factoring in 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 initially seem more economical, the frequent need for replacement makes Ipe the more cost-effective option in the long term, demonstrating its financial prudence for decking needs in Commerce, Michigan, both in the immediate and distant future.