The Best Ipe Decking in Fall River

Ipe stands out in Fall River as an eco-friendly alternative to composite decking and chemically-treated lumber. Unlike those options, Ipe is entirely natural, easily repurposable, and biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact. Its 100% real wood composition resonates with Fall River’s commitment to sustainability, echoing the city’s call to embrace natural solutions for decking needs.

Ipe’s exceptional hardness, surpassing even Oak’s, makes it a top choice for Fall River’s demanding climate. With a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, akin to concrete, it offers unmatched dimensional stability and longevity, crucial for enduring Fall River’s weather fluctuations. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to damage and decay, Ipe maintains its integrity, avoiding issues like raised wood grain. This stability ensures a durable, barefoot-friendly surface for Fall River’s outdoor areas, contrasting with the sagging tendency of composite materials.

Ipe’s renowned longevity, proven to withstand decades of harsh weather, perfectly suits Fall River’s climate. Its density and hardness contribute significantly to its durability, while its innate resistance to water, rot, and decay aligns seamlessly with Fall River’s humid environment. Originating from rainforests accustomed to heavy rainfall, Ipe naturally repels water, mold, and decay, making it an ideal choice for enduring Fall River’s distinctive weather patterns without compromising on quality or lifespan.

Ipe and other tropical hardwoods offer natural insect resistance, a boon for Fall River’s outdoor areas. Unlike domestic lumber requiring chemical treatments, Ipe’s inherent resilience against wood-boring insects originates from its tough wood fibers, developed in forests where insects are adept at boring into wood. This natural defense extends to insects in the United States, making Ipe an ideal choice for Fall River, where durability against natural elements is paramount.

Fall River, Massachusetts, like many areas with fire concerns, prioritizes fire-resistant construction materials. Ipe stands out as a preferred decking material due to its exceptional flame resistance. It consistently earns an A Class rating from engineering organizations, alongside steel and concrete. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically receive lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class.

Ipe decking, contrary to common assumptions, proves to be a cost-effective choice for Fall River homeowners. While pressure-treated lumber may last 5-7 years and plastic/composite boards degrade within a few years, Ipe offers a lifespan of 40-75 years, making it more economical in the long run. Despite comparable initial costs to mid-grade composites and less than high-end composites, Ipe’s longevity outweighs the frequent replacement needed for pressure-treated lumber, proving its financial value for Fall River’s decking needs, both short and long term.