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Ipe wood, or Brazilian walnut, is a premium hardwood used for outdoor decking. However, with proper maintenance, Ipe decks will retain their luster and start to degrade over time.
The regular maintenance of Ipe decking is essential for its preservation .
The primary enemy of Ipe decks is moisture. When water sits on the wood surface for too long, mold and mildew will grow in it. Annual power washing prevents microorganisms and keeps dirt or debris that traps harmful moisture from accumulating. After power washing, the deck should dry completely to return to its rich color and avoid future cracking or cupping due to trapped water.
Although Ipe naturally contains high amounts of oil, all woods weather when exposed to elements. Semimonthly application of penetrating oils feeds the cells while creating a water-repellent barrier. Film-forming sealants should be avoided since they chip off or peel away with time by reapplying finishes to this massive investment in durable ipe wood decking Florida.
Always sand Ipe lightly in line with the grain direction of the wood. A complete deck cleaning must follow sanding before applying the finish. Such annual sanding combined with the oil-based sealant renewal helps return rich color tones and provides excellent resistance to Ipe for rain, snow and sun seasons.
Mistakes in building Ipe decks equally count. Proper spacing among deck boards, allowing the wood to expand or contract, prevents future cracks or warps. Stainless steel deck fasteners and hardware prevent rust stains from occurring. Sloped designs are also integrated to enable proper draining of water. Moisture is avoided by following manufacturer guidelines for hidden fastener systems. A deck built per the manufacturer’s specifications will be easy to maintain later.
On the other hand, even if Ipe has a high natural oil content, all woods weather over time. Nonetheless, if not maintained, Ipe is still subject to cupping, bowing, or cracking due to moisture and ultraviolet exposure. Moisture, the greatest enemy of any exterior surface, is also the worst in this material. Therefore, annual cleaning, sanding and refinishing are done to preserve what makes Ipe valuable. It keeps homeowners’ investment on premium dollars worth due to its chocolate browns, striking reds, dimensional stability and coveted hardness.
Buyers should be quick to invest in this top-quality material due to the responsibility involved in owning Ipe. Years of service are richly rewarded despite the small effort expended in an annual maintenance program. Early and thorough action results in easily reversible wear on Ipe. In less time than it takes to install cheaper replacement options, a restoration regimen restores even badly weathered Ipe decking in most cases.
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When taken care of properly, Ipe can quickly regain its reputation as the king of all outdoor decking for many generations.
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