The Best Ipe Decking in Parma

Unlike composite decking, which combines wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic, contributing to environmental pollution, Ipe offers a greener option for Parma. Free from toxic chemicals found in pressure-treated or reclaimed lumber, Ipe is completely natural, biodegradable, and perfect for repurposing. With its 100% real wood purity, it resonates with Parma’s environmental values, promoting a “Go Natural!” ethos in decking selections.

Ipe’s exceptional hardness, with a Janka rating of 3,680, far surpasses Oak’s approximately 1,200 rating, making it one of the world’s top 10 hardest woods. Its concrete-like density ensures dimensional stability, longevity, and resistance to weather—qualities crucial for Parma’s varying climate. Unlike pressure-treated wood prone to expansion and contraction, Ipe maintains its integrity, avoiding damage and decay. Its stability also prevents raised wood grain, ideal for Parma’s outdoor spaces. While composite and plastic decking materials lose rigidity over time, Ipe’s minimal movement underscores its durability, perfect for Parma’s conditions.

Ipe’s remarkable longevity, capable of enduring for decades, especially thrives in Parma’s climate. Its density and hardness contribute significantly to this durability. Moreover, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay perfectly suits Parma’s humid conditions. Adapted from rainforests accustomed to heavy rainfall, Ipe naturally repels water, mold, and decay. These traits make it the perfect choice for withstanding Parma’s distinct weather patterns while maintaining quality and lifespan.

Ipe and other tropical hardwoods offer natural insect resistance, a valuable trait for Parma’s outdoor areas. Unlike local lumber requiring chemical treatments against wood-boring insects, Ipe has evolved this resistance naturally. With its tough wood fibers, Ipe is highly resistant to pests, including those found in the United States. This resilience makes Ipe a preferred choice for Parma, where durability against the elements is essential. Such insect resistance is a typical advantage of tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone areas such as parts of the southwestern United States and urban commercial projects, the selection of construction materials is significantly impacted by fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier decking material in these situations, thanks to its outstanding flame resistance. It consistently earns an A Class rating from engineering organizations, alongside steel and concrete. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically receive lower flame spread ratings, classified as C Class. This distinction underscores Ipe’s suitability for fire-conscious areas like Parma, Ohio.

Despite common assumptions, Ipe decking proves to be a cost-effective choice in the long run, especially for Parma’s decking needs. While pressure-treated lumber lasts around 5-7 years and plastic/composite boards begin to deteriorate within a few years, Ipe boasts a lifespan of 40-75 years, depending on environmental factors. This longevity makes Ipe more economical, considering the expenses of replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times. Initially comparable to mid-grade composites and cheaper than high-end composites, the upfront cost of Ipe is justified by its long-term durability. Despite pressure-treated lumber’s apparent initial cost advantage, the frequent replacements needed render Ipe a financially savvy option for Parma, both in the short and long term.