The Best Ipe Decking in Wauwatosa

In contrast to composite decking, which combines wood pulp and non-recyclable plastic, contributing to environmental pollution, and pressure-treated or reclaimed lumber containing toxic chemicals harmful to ecosystems, Ipe emerges as a more environmentally friendly option for Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. As a completely natural material, Ipe is ideal for repurposing and biodegrades without generating harmful byproducts. With its chemical-free and plastic-free composition, Ipe embodies the authenticity of 100% real wood. This resonates with Wauwatosa’s environmental ethos, promoting the adoption of natural decking solutions.

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 likened to concrete, contribute to its dimensional stability, prolonged lifespan, and resistance to weathering. These attributes are particularly pertinent in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, where fluctuating weather conditions can pose challenges to construction materials. In contrast to pressure-treated wood, which is prone 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 seen in softer woods, making it an advantageous choice for creating smooth, barefoot-friendly surfaces in Wauwatosa’s outdoor environments. Unlike composite and plastic decking materials that tend to lose rigidity over time due to thermal expansion and contraction, resulting in sagging, Ipe’s minimal movement under similar conditions underscores its durability and suitability for Wauwatosa’s climate.

Ipe’s remarkable durability, capable of withstanding decades of harsh weather, finds a fitting match in the climate of Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Its density and hardness play pivotal roles in this resilience. Furthermore, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay harmonizes perfectly with Wauwatosa’s humid climate. Hailing from rainforests accustomed to receiving 100-400 inches of rainfall annually, far exceeding typical U.S. climates, Ipe has evolved natural defenses against water intrusion, mold, and decay. These inherent qualities position it as an optimal choice for enduring Wauwatosa’s distinctive weather patterns while maintaining both quality and longevity.

Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods exhibit a natural resistance to insects, a quality especially advantageous for outdoor environments in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Unlike domestic lumber, which often requires chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has developed this resistance naturally. Originating from forests where insects possess a high proficiency in boring into wood, Ipe’s robust wood fibers are highly resistant to such pests. This resilience extends to insects found in the United States, making Ipe a superb choice for regions like Wauwatosa, where durability against natural elements is essential. 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 urban construction projects, the selection of construction materials is significantly influenced by their fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier choice for decking material in these contexts owing to its remarkable resistance to flames. It is among the select few materials, alongside steel and concrete, to consistently attain an A Class rating from engineering rating organizations. In contrast, materials like plastic, composite, and pressure-treated lumber typically have lower flame spread ratings, categorized as C Class.

Contrary to common assumptions, Ipe decking does not incur higher costs compared to alternatives over the long haul. 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 substantially longer lifespan of 40-75 years, contingent upon environmental conditions. This extended durability renders Ipe a more financially prudent choice, 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 cost of Ipe decking aligns with that of mid-grade composites and is even lower than that of high-end composites. Although pressure-treated lumber may initially seem more economical, the frequent need for replacement makes Ipe a more cost-effective option in the long run, establishing it as a financially astute choice for Wauwatosa’s decking requirements, both in the immediate and distant future.