The Best Ipe Decking in Oshkosh

Unlike 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 ecosystems, Ipe emerges as a more sustainable option for Oshkosh, Wisconsin. As a completely natural material, it lends itself well to repurposing and biodegradation, leaving behind no harmful byproducts. Chemical and plastic-free, Ipe embodies the authenticity of 100% real wood, resonating with Oshkosh’s environmental ethos and emphasizing the importance of opting for natural decking solutions.

Ipe, renowned as one of the world’s top 10 hardest woods with a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, far surpasses Oak’s rating of approximately 1,200. Its exceptional hardness and density, often compared to concrete, contribute significantly to its dimensional stability, prolonged lifespan, and resistance to weathering. These attributes hold particular relevance for Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where fluctuating weather conditions can pose challenges to construction materials. In contrast to pressure-treated wood, which is susceptible to significant expansion and contraction leading to structural damage and accelerated decay, Ipe maintains its structural integrity over time. This stability also mitigates the issue of raised wood grain commonly observed in softer woods, providing a smooth surface ideal for outdoor areas in Oshkosh. While composite and plastic decking materials may experience reduced rigidity due to expansion and contraction, resulting in sagging over time, Ipe’s minimal movement under similar conditions underscores its durability and suitability for Oshkosh’s climate.

Ipe’s remarkable longevity, capable of withstanding decades of harsh weather conditions, finds a fitting match in Oshkosh, Wisconsin’s climate. Its density and hardness play pivotal roles in this resilience. Furthermore, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay harmonizes seamlessly with Oshkosh’s humid climate. Hailing from rainforests that experience annual rainfall ranging from 100 to 400 inches, significantly more than typical climates in the U.S., Ipe has evolved to naturally repel water, mold, and decay. These inherent characteristics render it an optimal choice for enduring Oshkosh’s distinctive weather patterns while maintaining both quality and longevity.

Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods feature a natural resistance to insects, a characteristic highly advantageous for outdoor spaces in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. In contrast to domestic lumber, which often requires chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has evolved this resistance organically. Originating from forests where wood-boring insects are prevalent, Ipe’s robust wood fibers offer nearly impenetrable protection against these pests. This resilience also applies to insects commonly found in the United States, making Ipe an exceptional choice for regions like Oshkosh, where durability against natural elements is paramount. This insect resistance is a shared benefit among most tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone regions such as various 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 choice for decking material in such environments owing to its remarkable flame resistance. It is among the select few materials, alongside steel and concrete, to consistently attain an A Class rating from engineering rating bodies. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically receive lower flame spread ratings, categorized as C Class.

Despite common assumptions, Ipe decking does not entail higher costs over the long run compared to alternatives. While pressure-treated lumber typically lasts approximately 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 conditions. This extended longevity 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 aligns with mid-grade composites and falls below that of high-end composites. Despite the seemingly lower initial cost of pressure-treated lumber, the need for frequent replacements ultimately positions Ipe as the more economically viable choice in the long term, demonstrating its financial prudence for decking needs in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, both in the short and long term.