What are the differences between Cumaru and Ipe wood for decking?

Cumaru and Ipe wood are both excellent choices for decking, but they have distinct differences. Cumaru tends to have yellow-brown or reddish-brown hues, while Ipe ranges from tan to olive-brown. Ipe is known for its fine grain, whereas Cumaru has a coarser grain. Additionally, Cumaru is more affordable, costing 20% to 30% less than Ipe. However, Cumaru may experience shrinkage issues during dry seasons, so it's essential to apply a kiln drying process. It's crucial to consider your project's specific requirements when choosing between these hardwoods.

Which wood is better for decking near water, Cumaru or Ipe?

If you're planning to construct a deck near water, Ipe is generally the preferable choice. Cumaru has a tendency to cup when exposed to moisture. Ipe, on the other hand, is highly resistant to water-related issues and is an excellent option for such environments.

How do I maintain Ipe wood to prevent it from turning gray?

To prevent Ipe wood from turning gray, it's essential to properly maintain it. After cutting Ipe, make sure to seal the ends to prevent moisture-related issues. Neglecting this step can lead to changes in the wood's moisture level, resulting in a gray appearance. Applying a sealer to fresh cuts can slow down this process and prevent splitting.

Are there alternatives to Cumaru and Ipe wood for decking?

Yes, there are alternatives to Cumaru and Ipe wood for decking. Reclaimed teak is one such option. It is less dense, making it easier to install and more affordable. While it offers durability, it may not be as hard as Cumaru or Ipe. Choosing an alternative depends on your specific project requirements and budget.

Selecting the Best Decking Wood: Cumaru vs. Ipe

If you’re not well-versed in the world of furniture and decking, you might be unfamiliar with the gems of the trade, cumaru and ipe wood. Nevertheless, these exceptional wood types have gained popularity in both residential and commercial deck construction due to their remarkable attributes and long-term cost-effectiveness. But when faced with the choice of which wood to use for your deck project, how do you make the right decision? This comprehensive guide is here to assist you.

What Is Cumaru Wood? Cumaru, pronounced KOO-mah-roo, is a high-density tropical hardwood known for its exceptional qualities as a decking material. Its density, strength, and durability have propelled it to the forefront of decking options. Notably resistant to decay and rot, cumaru wood is a superior choice for various exterior applications, outlasting other commonly used woods such as cedar, Douglas fir, pine, and redwood.

Originating from the Dipteryx odorata tree, native to Central and northern South America, particularly Brazil, cumaru wood boasts natural hardiness and oils that allow it to thrive in diverse environments.

What Is Ipe Wood? Ipe, pronounced EE-pay, is an exceptionally long-lasting wood that can endure for up to 75 years, a longevity four times greater than most pressure-treated woods. It has become a cost-effective alternative to teak, showcasing a smooth hardwood texture with a color resembling mahogany, though it may fade if not properly maintained. Like cumaru, ipe wood is characterized by natural hardiness and oils, ensuring its endurance in various environments.

Ipe wood is sourced from the Tabebuia tree, native to the American tropics, Mexican subtropics, the Caribbean, and Argentina. Due to its popularity, ipe has faced issues of illegal harvesting and overharvesting in various regions. When grown and harvested responsibly, it receives Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, marked by the FSC-certified wood label.

Similarities Between Cumaru and Ipe Wood Both cumaru and ipe wood possess several features that make them favorable choices for decking. These shared characteristics include:

Density: Both woods are categorized as high-density hardwoods, known for their resistance to fungus and decay due to their high density and natural impermeability.

Hardness: In the Janka test, a measure of wood hardness, cumaru scores at 3,340, while ipe achieves a hardness rating of 3,680. These numbers reflect their exceptional hardness, requiring over 3,000 pounds of pressure per square inch to embed a steel ball halfway into the wood.

Natural Resistance to Insects: Thanks to their inherent oils and natural robustness, both woods exhibit remarkable resistance to rot and decay, making them suitable for decades of outdoor use, even in harsh conditions.

Scratch Resistance: Cumaru and ipe wood are highly scratch-resistant, making them ideal choices for high-traffic areas like walkways and backyard decks.

Differences Between Cumaru and Ipe Wood

Despite their similarities, cumaru and ipe are distinct wood types, each with its unique characteristics. If you’re contemplating either for your decking project, it’s crucial to be aware of these differences:

Color:

Cumaru wood features yellow-brown or reddish-brown hues, while ipe wood ranges from tan to olive-brown and sometimes black, earning them nicknames like Brazilian Teak and Brazilian Walnut, respectively.

Grain:

Ipe wood boasts a finer grain appearance, whereas cumaru has a coarser grain.

Price:

Cumaru is typically 20% to 30% more affordable than ipe, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious projects.

Shrinkage:

Cumaru may experience certain instabilities leading to shrinkage, particularly during the dry season. Kiln drying and avoiding its use during this period can mitigate this issue.

Which Wood to Choose?

Both ipe and cumaru stand as excellent choices for decking materials due to their remarkable durability. If your deck will be near water, ipe might be the preferable option, as cumaru is prone to cupping. However, if you seek low-maintenance wood, cumaru is the ideal choice, as ipe tends to turn gray if not adequately maintained. Proper sealing is necessary for ipe wood, and neglecting this step may result in moisture-related issues. If you remain uncertain, you can also explore alternatives like reclaimed teak, which is less dense and easier to install, while still offering durability and affordability.

Selecting the right wood for your deck can be challenging, but both cumaru and ipe wood offer exceptional choices. If you need further guidance, feel free to reach out to us at Brazilian Wood Depot. As experts in Brazilian hardwoods, we have extensive experience in wood selection and deck restoration. We can help you make the right choice to ensure your investment stays beautiful and durable for years to come. Contact us today, and one of our knowledgeable team members will be in touch with you.