The Best Ipe Decking in Fond du Lac

In contrast to composite decking composed of wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic, which adds to environmental pollution, and pressure-treated or reclaimed lumber containing toxic chemicals harmful to plant and animal life, Ipe emerges as a more environmentally friendly option for Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. It stands as a wholly natural material, ideal for repurposing and biodegradable, devoid of generating harmful byproducts. With its chemical-free and plastic-free composition, Ipe embodies the authenticity of 100% real wood. This resonates with Fond du Lac’s environmental awareness, emphasizing the preference for natural decking alternatives.

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 exceptional hardness and density, often likened to concrete, contribute to its dimensional stability, prolonged lifespan, and resistance to weathering. These attributes hold particular significance for Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where volatile weather conditions can pose challenges for construction materials. In contrast to pressure-treated wood, susceptible to significant expansion and contraction leading to structural damage and hastened decay, Ipe maintains its structural integrity over time. This stability also mitigates the issue of raised wood grain common in softer woods, offering a smoother surface ideal for barefoot-friendly outdoor areas in Fond du Lac. While composite and plastic decking materials tend to lose their rigidity due to expansion and contraction, resulting in sagging, Ipe demonstrates minimal movement under similar conditions, underscoring its durability and suitability for Fond du Lac’s climate.

Ipe’s remarkable longevity, capable of withstanding decades of harsh weather conditions, finds a fitting match in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin’s climate. Its density and hardness play pivotal roles in this resilience. Furthermore, Ipe’s inherent resistance to water, rot, and decay harmonizes with Fond du Lac’s humid environment. Hailing from rainforests receiving 100-400 inches of annual rainfall, significantly more than typical U.S. climates, Ipe has evolved to naturally fend off water penetration, mold, and decay. These attributes position it as an optimal choice for enduring Fond du Lac’s distinct weather patterns without compromising on quality or lifespan.

The natural resistance of Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods to insects proves highly advantageous for outdoor spaces in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Unlike domestic lumber, which necessitates chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has developed this resistance naturally. Originating from forests where insects possess a high proficiency for boring into wood, Ipe’s robust wood fibers are nearly impervious to these pests. This resilience also extends to insects found in the United States, rendering Ipe a superb choice for regions like Fond du Lac, where durability against natural elements is paramount. Such insect resistance is a shared advantage among most tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone regions such as several states in the southwestern United States and major commercial projects in urban areas, the selection of construction materials is greatly swayed by fire resistance considerations. Ipe stands out as the premier option for decking material in these contexts owing 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. Conversely, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically receive lower flame spread ratings, categorized as C Class.

Contrary to common assumptions, Ipe decking does not entail higher costs than alternatives over the long haul. 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 upon environmental conditions. This extended durability renders Ipe a more cost-efficient option, particularly when factoring in the expenses associated with replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times throughout the lifespan of a single Ipe installation. The initial expense of Ipe decking is comparable to mid-grade composites and less than that of high-end composites. Although pressure-treated lumber may appear cheaper upfront, the frequent need for replacement makes Ipe the more economical choice in the long run, establishing it as a financially prudent option for decking needs in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, both in the immediate and distant future.