The Best Ipe Decking in Mequon

In contrast to composite decking comprising wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic, as well as pressure-treated or reclaimed lumber containing toxic chemicals harmful to ecosystems, Ipe emerges as a more eco-friendly option for Mequon, Wisconsin. It stands out as a fully natural material, ideal for repurposing and biodegradable, without generating harmful byproducts. Being devoid of chemicals and plastics, Ipe embodies the authenticity of pure wood, resonating with Mequon’s environmental awareness and reinforcing the preference for natural decking solutions.

Ipe, ranked among the world’s top 10 hardest woods with a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, 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 weather elements. These attributes hold particular significance for Mequon, Wisconsin, where volatile weather patterns can challenge construction materials. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to significant expansion and contraction, resulting in cell structure damage and accelerated decay, Ipe maintains its structural integrity. This stability also mitigates the issue of raised wood grain common in softer woods, making it advantageous for creating comfortable outdoor surfaces in Mequon’s environments. While composite and plastic decking materials tend to lose stiffness over time due to expansion and contraction, leading to sagging, Ipe’s minimal movement under similar conditions underscores its durability and suitability for Mequon’s climate.

Ipe’s remarkable longevity, capable of lasting for decades even in harsh weather conditions, is well-suited to Mequon, Wisconsin’s climate. Its density and hardness are key contributors to this durability. Furthermore, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay perfectly align with Mequon’s humid environment. Hailing from rainforests experiencing 100-400 inches of rain annually, far surpassing typical U.S. climates, Ipe has evolved to naturally withstand water penetration, mold, and decay. These attributes render it an excellent choice for enduring Mequon’s distinctive weather patterns while maintaining quality and longevity.

The inherent resistance to insects found in Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods is highly advantageous for outdoor spaces in Mequon. Unlike domestic lumber, which necessitates chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has naturally evolved this resistance. Emerging from forests where insects possess a high proficiency in boring into wood, Ipe’s robust wood fibers are nearly impervious to these pests. This resilience also extends to insects commonly found in the United States, making Ipe a superb choice for regions like Mequon, where durability against natural elements is paramount. This insect resistance is a shared benefit among most tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone regions such as many states in the southwestern United States and major commercial projects in urban areas, the selection of construction materials is significantly influenced by fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier decking material in such environments owing to its outstanding flame resistance. It is among the select few materials, including steel and concrete, consistently receiving an A Class rating from engineering rating organizations. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically exhibit lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class.

Despite common assumptions, Ipe decking does not incur higher costs than alternatives in the long run. While pressure-treated lumber may endure for about 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 ranging from 40-75 years, contingent upon environmental factors. This extended durability renders Ipe a more economically viable choice, particularly when factoring in the expenses associated with replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times over the lifespan of a single Ipe installation. The initial cost of Ipe decking is comparable to mid-grade composites and lower than high-end composites. Although pressure-treated lumber may initially appear more budget-friendly, the need for frequent replacement ultimately makes Ipe the more financially prudent option in the long term, establishing it as a wise investment for decking needs in Mequon, Wisconsin, both in the short and long term.