The Best Ipe Decking in Mason

Ipe stands out in Mason, Ohio as an eco-friendly alternative to composite decking and chemically treated lumber. Unlike these options, Ipe is entirely natural, biodegradable, and free from harmful chemicals or plastics. Its purity as real wood resonates with Mason’s environmental values, promoting a “Go Natural!” ethos in decking decisions.

Ipe’s exceptional hardness, with a Janka rating of 3,680, surpasses Oak’s approximately 1,200 rating, placing it among the world’s top 10 hardest woods. Its concrete-like density ensures dimensional stability, longevity, and weather resistance, crucial qualities for Mason’s varied climate. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to damage and decay from weather fluctuations, Ipe maintains its integrity over time. Its stability also prevents raised wood grain, ideal for comfortable outdoor surfaces in Mason. While composite and plastic materials may sag with time, Ipe’s minimal movement underscores its durability, perfect for enduring Mason’s weather conditions.

Ipe’s remarkable longevity, capable of enduring for decades in harsh weather, is well-matched to Mason’s climate. Its density and hardness contribute significantly to this durability. Moreover, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay perfectly suits Mason’s humid environment. Adapted from rainforests accustomed to heavy rainfall, Ipe naturally repels water, mold, and decay. These qualities ensure it withstands Mason’s distinct weather patterns while maintaining its quality and lifespan.

Mason’s outdoor spaces benefit from Ipe’s natural resistance to insects, a trait absent in domestic lumber. While domestic wood requires chemical treatments to repel wood-boring insects, Ipe has developed natural resilience. Originating from forests with adept insect populations, Ipe’s robust fibers are highly resistant to pests. This resilience extends to insects in the United States, making Ipe ideal for areas like Mason, where durability against natural elements is essential. Insect resistance is a key advantage of most tropical hardwoods.

Mason, Ohio, like many other areas, values fire-resistant construction materials. Ipe stands out as a top choice for decking due to its exceptional flame resistance. Alongside steel and concrete, Ipe consistently earns an A Class rating from engineering organizations, making it ideal for fire-prone environments. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically receive lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class.

In Mason, Ohio, Ipe decking proves to be a cost-effective option contrary to common assumptions. While pressure-treated lumber lasts only 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. The initial cost is comparable to mid-grade composites and less than high-end ones. Despite pressure-treated lumber seeming cheaper initially, frequent replacements make Ipe the financially savvy choice for Mason’s decking needs, both short and long term.