Ipe Decks St. Paul MN
Continued popularity of outdoor living spurs more colorful, decorative decks in St. Paul MN with added accessories, lighting and structures as part of the program. Ipe decking is one of the most durable and natural woods used for decking today.
What Is Ipe Decking?
Ipê (pronounced E-pay) originates from countries in Central and South America. Ipe decking has natural properties that make it the toughest and longest lasting decking materials available. As you can see below, ipe decks provide a touch of class and elegance to any outdoor space.
Compare Ipe Decking
Decking contractors in St. Paul make no mistake about it. Comparing ipe decking to other of decking materials is like comparing a luxury sports car to horse and buggy. It stands alone in durability and appearance when it comes to other decking surfaces. Because of it's cost it is not a product that everyone can afford, but for those who can it will truly outperform all other products.
Below, you will see how ipe decking stands up to other common decking materials. You get what you pay for in quality and longevity.
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| COST |
High
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Medium/High
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Medium/High
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Low
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| DURABILITY |
High
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Medium/High
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Medium/High
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Low
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| MAINTENANCE |
Low
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Medium
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Medium
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High
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| RESISTANCE |
High
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Medium/High
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Medium/High
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Low
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| APPEARANCE |
High
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Medium/High
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Medium/High
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Low
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| OVERALL |
Highest Quality
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Medium to High Quality
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Medium to High Quality
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Low Quality
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Is Ipe Eco-Friendly?
There are a number of sustainable forestry methods that produce responsible decking materials. Some of these practices include:
- Harvesting of fallen & dead trees
- Harvesting trees that no longer produce seeds
- For every tree that has been cut a number of new trees planted
- Selective logging that promotes healthy forests
IPE'S strong, tough resilient properties make it an excellent material and increasingly popular choice for commercial/residential decking and outdoor furniture. It is prized for its stability, durability, strength and natural resistance to decay, wet conditions, and infestation by termites and borers. It is available in long lengths and relatively easy to season. Ipe has a Class A fire rating, the same rating given to concrete and steel.
Ipe's heartwood is olive brown to black and usually features striping. The sapwood is much lighter, usually white or yellow. It's extreme density makes it difficult to cut and plane. High quality Carbide tipped blades are recommended when cutting. Pre-drilling is highly recommended when surface fastening to minimize checking.
Contact Timberland Exteriors today for a free Deck Evaluation at 651-439-1760.
