Tropical hardwoods are prized in large part because of their durability, and also for their exotic beauty. In this article, we’ll look at several more options (see Part 1 & 2) you could consider if you’re thinking about installing a tropical hardwood deck outside of your residential or commercial property. Pros and Cons of Tigerwood […]
Lumber
Exploring Tropical Decking Options – Part 2
Putting in a deck or other outdoor application requires a wood with certain characteristics like durability, hardness, and stability. Ipe is by far the top performer in these categories. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford to purchase large enough quantities for this desirable option. We already mentioned Cumaru as a top contender when it comes to […]
Exploring Tropical Decking Options – Part 1
Now that Spring has arrived, it’s time to get started on all of those exciting outdoor projects. One popular item that starts flying off lumber dealers’ shelves this time of year is tropical decking. Whether you’re installing a residential deck or a commercial boardwalk, selecting a high-quality product can make a tremendous difference when it […]
Understanding Wood’s Tendency to Change Color – Part 3
Wood changing color over time is an inevitable reality. As we mentioned in the previous articles (see Part 1 and 2), much of this change is due to both environmental factors, such as wind, weather, and sunlight, and also to chemical components like extractives and lignins. When these chemical components come in contact with the […]
Understanding Wood’s Tendency to Change Color – Part 2
When it comes to wood, color change is practically inevitable. Rather than seeing this fact of nature as a negative, you can choose to look at the process as just another exciting aspect of working with this unique, organic building material. People do, however, have their preferences when it comes to the color of wood. […]
Understanding Wood’s Tendency to Change Color – Part 1
Perhaps you found the ideal color of wood for a specific project, such as a wood floor or deck. After installation, you were disappointed to discover that the wood didn’t stay the same color that it was when you initially selected the product. Since it can be somewhat upsetting if you’re not expecting to see […]
Tropical Hardwood Decking Dilemmas: Saving on Time, Tools, and Totals
There are so many things to love about tropical hardwood decking! For instance, it’s absolutely stunning! It’s also weather-resistant and extremely hard and dense — all qualities that make it likely to last for decades. However, if you’re accustomed to installing lower-end decks made with softer material, you might be in for some surprises. For […]
Tropical Hardwood Decking Dilemmas: Planning for Movement
There are so many factors in favor of tropical hardwood decking. While Ipe is definitely the top-of-the-line when it comes to density, hardness, weather resistance, and overall longevity, it’s also the most brutal on tools and difficult to work with. For those inexperienced in working with such hard, dense lumber species, the prospect can be […]
Tropical Hardwood Decking Dilemmas: Installation Choices
Tropical hardwood decking definitely offers a unique set of benefits and challenges, compared to other types of decking lumber. At the same time, though, premium species such as Cumaru or Ipe are essentially installed the same way as pressure-treated Pine or other decking materials. You have two basic installation methods from which to choose: face […]
Tropical Hardwood Decking Dilemmas: Color Conundrum
When it comes to tropical hardwood decking, sometimes those new to these fabulous decking materials are surprised about the unique movement and installation issues that come up. When you’re prepared for these kinds of things, you can be proactive in accounting for them — and that’s exactly what we hope to help you do. One […]