The Best Ipe Decking in Freeport
Get direct shipments of Ipe wood from Brazilian Wood Depot to Freeport. We don’t broker, providing competitive prices and top-notch quality. Choosing us means investing in premium Ipe wood for your project. Our family-owned business, now in its second generation, will ensure you get precisely what you need for decking, siding, or tiles.
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Ipe Decking is Perfect for Freeport, Illinois
Ipe Decking
WHAT IS IPE WOOD?
Ipe (pronounced EE-pay) is world-renowned for its superior characteristics and properties. Ipe is one of the hardest woods in the world which lends to its incredible durability and longevity. It is also naturally resistant to insect attack, mold, rot, fire and decay.
Cumaru Decking
Cumaru (pronounced Koo-Mah-Roo) is world-renowned for its superior characteristics and properties. You may have heard of Ipe’s incredible hardness, durability, and longevity- Cumaru is similar to Ipe in many ways and is often used interchangeably with Ipe.
Garapa Decking
Garapa decking is naturally resistant to wood decay and insect damage, having no characteristic odor. Garapa wood is naturally scratch resistant and has an estimated useful life of 25 years. Deck oil preservation treatments will actually add even more years to the life of this very durable wood decking.
Massaranduba Decking
Massaranduba (pronounced Mas-a-ran-doo-bah) is known for its superior characteristics and properties. You may have heard of Ipe’s incredible hardness, durability, and longevity- Massaranduba is similar to Ipe in many ways and is often used interchangeably with Ipe.
Tigerwood Decking
Tigerwood (Muiracatiara) decking lumber is a beautiful exotic Brazilian hardwood which provides one of the most unique wood grain patterns you will ever see. Because of its incredible beauty, Tigerwood lumber it is highly sought after for both interior and exterior applications.
Purpleheart Decking
Purpleheart is well known for its amazing insect resistance and bright purple color when freshly cut. You may have heard of Ipe’s incredible hardness, durability, and longevity- Purpleheart provides many of the same benefits. Purpleheart is extremely hard and dense which lends to its incredible durability and longevity.
Balau Decking
Balau (pronounced Buhl-ow) is also known locally as Bangkirai. Unlike many of the other wood species that Brazilian Wood Depot carries, Balau is native to Southeast Asia namely, Indonesia and Malaysia. While Balau is relatively new to the United States market, it is the European Standard for exterior construction projects.
T&G Porch Decking
Tongue and groove boards are installed much more tightly than Standard Decking. This makes the space feel more like an extension of the home than an exterior deck. There is nothing wrong with using standard decking on a covered porch, but it can be preferable to differentiate between two areas, a deck and a porch, by using a T&G product in the porch.
🌱All Natural
Opt for Ipe over composite decking or treated lumber for a greener choice in Freeport. Unlike composite materials, Ipe is entirely natural, biodegradable, and free from harmful chemicals. Its purity aligns with Freeport’s environmental values, promoting a “Go Natural!” approach to decking.
🔨 Hardness
Ipe’s exceptional hardness, with a Janka rating of 3,680, surpasses Oak’s rating by a wide margin, making it a top choice for Freeport. Its density and durability, akin to concrete, ensure dimensional stability and resistance to weather, crucial qualities in Freeport’s fluctuating climate. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to damage and decay, Ipe maintains its integrity, offering a long-lasting solution for Freeport’s building needs. Its stability also prevents raised wood grain, ideal for creating smooth, safe surfaces in Freeport’s outdoor areas. While composite materials may sag over time, Ipe’s minimal movement proves its durability, perfect for Freeport’s environment.
🕰️ Longevity
Freeport’s climate, with its fluctuating weather, finds a perfect match in the enduring nature of Ipe. Its density and hardness contribute significantly to its longevity, capable of withstanding extreme conditions for decades. Moreover, Ipe’s natural resistance to water, rot, and decay suits Freeport’s humid environment well. Originating from rainforests accustomed to heavy rainfall, Ipe naturally repels water, mold, and decay, making it an ideal choice for enduring Freeport’s weather patterns without compromising quality or lifespan.
🔧 Board Replacement
Consider the ease of board replacement for Freeport homeowners when selecting deck materials like pressure-treated (PT) or composite. Unlike PT or composite decking, where replacing a board can be problematic due to fading and noticeable differences, tropical hardwoods like Ipe offer a different solution. Their natural variation makes replacing a board less noticeable, blending seamlessly within a few months. This advantage, unique to real woods, is crucial for Freeport residents who value their outdoor spaces. The same principle applies to prefinished and engineered wood flooring, where seamless board replacement maintains the overall aesthetic.
🐜 Insect Resistant
Freeport’s outdoor spaces benefit from Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods’ natural resistance to insects. Unlike domestic lumber requiring chemical treatments, Ipe naturally repels wood-boring insects, thanks to its tough wood fibers developed in forests where insects are prevalent. This resilience extends to U.S. insects, making Ipe an ideal choice for Freeport’s durability needs against natural elements. Such insect resistance is a common advantage of tropical hardwoods.
🔥 Fire Resistance
Consider the significance of fire resistance when selecting construction materials for large projects, especially in fire-prone areas like southwestern states and urban settings. Ipe stands out as the preferred decking material due to its exceptional flame resistance, consistently earning an A Class rating from engineering organizations. This sets it apart from materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber, which typically have lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class. Such considerations are crucial even for areas like Freeport, Illinois, where fire safety is paramount.
♻️ Sustainable
While sourcing Ipe from South America’s tropical forests, notably Brazil, raises concerns about ecosystem impact, Dependable sourceing practices can contribute to forest conservation. Proper management, including replanting, helps protect habitats, supported by organizations and government regulations. Without such efforts, forests face the risk of clearance for activities like agriculture. Choosing Ipe from reputable dealers like Brazilian Wood Depot supports the preservation of naturally forested lands, a relevant consideration for environmentally conscious projects in Freeport’s construction and landscaping.
💰 Cost and Value
Ipe decking proves to be a cost-effective choice for Freeport, Illinois, contrary to common assumptions. While pressure-treated lumber and plastic or composite boards deteriorate within a few years, Ipe offers a lifespan of 40-75 years, making it more economical in the long run. Despite initial costs comparable to mid-grade composites and lower than high-end composites, the need for frequent replacement with pressure-treated lumber makes Ipe the financially savvy option for Freeport’s decking needs, ensuring both short and long-term savings.
In Freeport, Illinois, several landmarks could potentially incorporate Ipe wood for both interior and exterior applications:
Lincoln-Douglas Debate Square: The outdoor seating areas or benches surrounding this historic site could utilize Ipe wood for its durability and natural aesthetic.
Oakdale Nature Preserve: Boardwalks, bridges, or observation decks within the preserve could benefit from Ipe wood due to its resistance to moisture and insects.
Winneshiek Playhouse: The exterior of this community theater could feature Ipe wood siding or accents for a modern and durable look.
Freeport Art Museum: Interior renovations or installations, such as flooring or wall paneling, could incorporate Ipe wood to add warmth and sophistication to the space.
Silver Creek Museum: Exterior structures like pergolas, gazebos, or decking areas within the museum grounds could use Ipe wood for its longevity and low maintenance.
Krape Park: Amenities such as picnic shelters, benches, or playground structures in this popular park could incorporate Ipe wood for its durability and natural beauty.
Freeport Public Library: Interior renovations or furniture pieces within the library could feature Ipe wood for its elegance and longevity.
The Wagner House: As a historic event venue, The Wagner House could consider using Ipe wood for outdoor decking or seating areas to complement its charming ambiance.
These landmarks in Freeport could enhance their aesthetic appeal and durability by incorporating Ipe wood into their design or renovation plans.