The Best Ipe Decking in Westerly

In Westerly, Rhode Island, where the Ipe will be shipped to, stands in contrast to composite decking crafted from wood pulp and non-recyclable plastics, which contribute to environmental degradation. Similarly, pressure-treated or reclaimed lumber contains toxic chemicals detrimental to local ecosystems. However, Ipe offers a more sustainable option for Westerly, Rhode Island. Being entirely natural, it can be repurposed and is biodegradable, posing no threat to the environment. Free from harmful chemicals and plastics, Ipe embodies the essence of authentic wood. This resonates with Westerly, Rhode Island’s commitment to environmental stewardship, advocating for natural decking solutions.

Ipe, destined for Westerly, Rhode Island, ranks among the world’s toughest woods, boasting a Janka Hardness rating of 3,680, far surpassing 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 weathering. These attributes are particularly valuable in Westerly, Rhode Island, where variable weather conditions can pose challenges to building materials. Unlike pressure-treated wood, prone to significant expansion and contraction leading to structural damage and accelerated decay, Ipe maintains its structural integrity. This stability also mitigates the issue of raised wood grain common in softer woods, a notable advantage for creating comfortable, barefoot-friendly surfaces in Westerly, Rhode Island’s outdoor environments. While composite and plastic decking materials tend to lose rigidity over time due to fluctuations, resulting in sagging, Ipe’s minimal movement under similar conditions underscores its durability and suitability for Westerly, Rhode Island’s climate.

Ipe’s remarkable longevity, capable of withstanding decades of harsh weather conditions, is exceptionally well-suited to the climate of Westerly, Rhode Island. Its density and hardness significantly contribute to its enduring nature. Moreover, Ipe’s innate resistance to water, rot, and decay perfectly aligns with the humid environment of Westerly, Rhode Island. Originating from rainforests experiencing annual rainfall ranging from 100 to 400 inches, far exceeding typical U.S. climates, Ipe has evolved to naturally resist water intrusion, mold, and decay. These inherent qualities make it an optimal choice for enduring Westerly, Rhode Island’s distinct weather patterns, ensuring both quality and longevity.

Ipe and similar tropical hardwoods possess a natural resistance to insects, a quality particularly advantageous for outdoor spaces in Westerly, Rhode Island. Unlike domestic lumber requiring chemical treatments to deter wood-boring insects, Ipe has developed this resistance naturally. Originating from forests where insects adeptly bore into wood, Ipe’s robust wood fibers are highly resistant to these pests. This resilience also applies to insects found in the United States, making Ipe an excellent choice for regions like Westerly, Rhode Island, where durability against natural elements is essential. This insect resistance is a shared benefit among most tropical hardwoods.

In regions prone to fires, such as many states in the southwestern United States and large urban commercial projects, the selection of construction materials is significantly impacted by fire resistance. Ipe stands out as the premier choice for decking material in such environments owing to its outstanding flame resistance. It is among the select few materials, alongside steel and concrete, to consistently earn an A Class rating from engineering rating organizations. 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 than alternatives over time. While pressure-treated lumber typically lasts around 5-7 years before deterioration, and plastic and composite boards often begin to fade and degrade within a few years, Ipe boasts a significantly longer lifespan of 40-75 years, contingent upon environmental conditions. This extended longevity renders Ipe a more financially prudent choice, particularly when considering the expenses associated with replacing pressure-treated or composite boards multiple times over the lifespan of a single Ipe installation. Initially, the cost of Ipe decking aligns with mid-grade composites and falls below high-end composites. Though pressure-treated lumber may appear cheaper at first glance, the frequent replacements required make Ipe the more economical option in the long run, establishing it as a financially astute choice for Westerly, Rhode Island’s decking needs, both in the short and long term.