The Best Ipe Decking in Rutland

Unlike composite decking composed of wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic, which adds to environmental pollution, or pressure-treated and reclaimed lumber infused with toxic chemicals detrimental to plant and animal ecosystems, Ipe emerges as a more eco-friendly option for Rutland, Vermont. As a wholly natural material, it lends itself to repurposing and biodegradability, without generating harmful byproducts. Devoid of chemicals and plastics, Ipe embodies the authenticity of 100% real wood, resonating with Rutland, Vermont’s environmental ethos and bolstering the advocacy for “Go Natural!” in decking selections.

Ipe, ranked among the world’s top 10 hardest woods with a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, significantly surpasses Oak’s rating of approximately 1,200. Its density and hardness, often compared to concrete, contribute to its dimensional stability, prolonged lifespan, and resistance to weathering. These attributes hold particular significance for Rutland, Vermont, where fluctuating weather poses challenges for construction materials. In contrast to pressure-treated wood, which is susceptible to substantial expansion and contraction leading to structural damage and accelerated deterioration, Ipe maintains its structural integrity. This stability also mitigates the issue of raised wood grain commonly observed in softer woods, presenting a notable advantage for creating comfortable outdoor surfaces in Rutland, Vermont. While composite and plastic decking materials tend to lose stiffness over time due to expansion and contraction, resulting in sagging, Ipe demonstrates minimal movement under similar conditions, highlighting its durability and suitability for Rutland, Vermont’s climate.

Ipe’s remarkable durability, renowned for its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions for decades, is especially well-suited to Rutland, Vermont’s climate. Its density and hardness significantly contribute to this resilience. Moreover, Ipe’s inherent resistance to water, rot, and decay harmonizes with the humid environment of Rutland, Vermont. Originating from rainforests experiencing annual rainfall ranging from 100 to 400 inches, far surpassing typical U.S. climates, Ipe has naturally evolved to resist water infiltration, mold, and decay. These characteristics position it as an optimal choice for enduring Rutland, Vermont’s distinct weather patterns without compromising on quality or longevity.

Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods possess a natural resistance to insects, which is particularly advantageous for outdoor spaces in Rutland, Vermont. Unlike domestic lumber, which requires chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has developed this resistance naturally. Originating from forests where insects excel at boring into wood, Ipe’s resilient wood fibers are highly resistant to these pests. This resilience extends to the insects found in the United States, making Ipe an excellent choice for areas like Rutland, Vermont, where durability against natural elements is paramount. This insect resistance is a common advantage shared by most tropical hardwoods.

In fire-prone regions such as many states in the southwestern United States and expansive commercial projects in urban environments, the selection of construction materials is significantly impacted by fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier choice for decking material in these contexts owing to its outstanding flame resistance. It is among the select few materials, alongside steel and concrete, to consistently attain an A Class rating from engineering rating organizations. Conversely, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically exhibit lower flame spread ratings, categorized as C Class.

Despite common assumptions, Ipe decking does not incur higher costs than alternatives over the long run. While pressure-treated lumber typically lasts around 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 on environmental conditions. This prolonged durability renders Ipe a more financially prudent choice, particularly when considering the expenses associated with replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times throughout the lifespan of a single Ipe installation. The initial cost of Ipe decking is comparable to mid-grade composites and lower than that of high-end composites. Despite pressure-treated lumber appearing cheaper initially, the frequent replacement requirements make Ipe the more economical option in the long term, establishing it as a financially astute choice for Rutland, Vermont’s decking needs, both in the immediate and extended periods.