The Best Ipe Decking in Dover

Unlike composite decking composed of wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic or pressure-treated lumber laden with toxic chemicals harmful to the environment, Ipe offers Dover a greener alternative. Being completely natural, it’s easily repurposable and biodegradable, leaving no harmful byproducts. Free from chemicals and plastics, Ipe embodies the purity of authentic wood, resonating with Dover’s environmental ethos and advocating for natural decking choices.

Ipe, with its Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, stands among the world’s top 10 hardest woods, far surpassing Oak’s rating of about 1,200. Its density, akin to concrete, ensures dimensional stability, longevity, and weather resistance. These attributes are crucial in Dover, where varying weather poses challenges. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to expansion and contraction, damaging cell structure and hastening decay, Ipe remains steadfast. Its stability also averts raised wood grain issues common in softer woods, a boon for Dover’s outdoor areas. While composite and plastic decking may sag over time, Ipe’s minimal movement underscores its durability, ideal for Dover’s climate.

Ipe’s remarkable durability, capable of withstanding decades of harsh weather, is tailored for Dover’s climate. Its density and hardness play pivotal roles in this resilience. Moreover, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay harmonizes with Dover’s humid conditions. Hailing from rainforests accustomed to heavy rainfall, Ipe naturally fends off water intrusion, mold, and decay. These attributes position it as the perfect choice for enduring Dover’s distinct weather patterns while maintaining quality and longevity.

Ipe and other tropical hardwoods naturally resist insects, a valuable trait for Dover’s outdoor areas. Unlike local lumber needing chemical treatments, Ipe has evolved this defense. Originating from forests where insects are adept at boring into wood, Ipe’s tough fibers repel pests. This resilience extends to US insects, making Ipe ideal for Dover’s durability needs. This insect resistance is typical among tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone regions, such as some southwestern US states and urban commercial projects, material selection hinges on fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier decking choice for its remarkable flame resistance. It consistently earns an A Class rating from engineering organizations, alongside steel and concrete. In contrast, plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically have lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class. This feature makes Ipe a preferred option, even in Dover, where fire safety is crucial.

Ipe decking, contrary to assumptions, isn’t pricier than alternatives in the long run. While pressure-treated lumber lasts 5-7 years and plastic/composite boards fade within a few years, Ipe lasts 40-75 years, making it cost-effective. The initial cost is comparable to mid-grade composites and less than high-end ones. Although pressure-treated lumber seems cheaper initially, frequent replacements make Ipe more economical. It’s a financially savvy choice for Dover’s decking, both short and long term.