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Uses for Ipe Hardwood in Construction

Last updated on August 9, 2014 by Sozo Staff Leave a Comment

Pile of Ipe logs
Pile of Ipe logs

​One of the longest lasting hardwoods available, Ipe Heartwood is a favorite of many for construction projects ranging from outdoor decks to interior flooring. Exceptional resistance to moisture and dense properties make Ipe a stable wood that can stand up to harsh climates and rough environments. With proper treatment, Ipe will keep its deep brown color for a long time. In addition, a natural Class A fire rating puts Ipe on the same level as concrete and steel for safety against fires.

So where can Ipe fit into a building project? ​Below are a few popular uses.

​Ocean Boardwalks

​Boardwalks in ocean areas must be able to withstand not only constant moisture but also air concentrated with salt. Ideally, a boardwalk should be built durably to hold up while hundreds of thousands of people walk over it during the course of a summer, with no worry about the wood rotting in the moist environment.

As an exceptionally dense wood which is resistant to holding water, Ipe is a perfect option for this type of setting. Its resistance to splintering helps keep sharp wood out of bare feet while walking to and from the beach.

Stacks of Ipe in Lumberyard
Stacks of Ipe in Lumberyard

Decks for Private Homes

​When you’re home from the boardwalk-lined beach, the next best way to enjoy summer is to pull the grill out onto the deck and sit outside in the balmy weather. Especially in northern climates where snow and ice cover the ground for several months, an outdoor deck should be built from durable materials that can face rough weather and hold up for years with minimal repair.

Ipe’s water resistant qualities combine with its stability against warping to make it a great choice for a deck that homeowners can enjoy with minimal maintenance.

Garden Trellises

Both professionals and home gardeners growing vegetables that grow on vines appreciate the quality of a durable trellis. Ipe wood’s propensity to hold up in the outdoors makes it a good choice for gardeners. A solidly built Ipe trellis will hold up for years against rain, dirt, and organic materials, letting gardeners focus on growing healthy green beans.

Available in thicknesses from 1″ to 6″ and widths from 4″ to 12″, Ipe from J. Gibson McIlvain can easily be found in the thinner sizes needed to build a trellis.

Fresh Ipe Deck
Fresh Ipe Deck

Bench Construction

Whether in a city park, along the ocean, or outside a restaurant, we’ve all sat on our share of broken benches made from cheap wood. Ipe serves as an excellent choice for constructing benches with greater durability.

A park commission may be looking to update all the benches in its park. Or a restaurant may be choosing to build outdoor seating. Whatever the reason, choosing the right wood will pay off in quality.

Of course, these are just a few suggestions for using Ipe in construction projects. Talk to J. Gibson McIlvain today for more information on picking wood for your next project.

J. Gibson McIlvain Company

Since 1798, when Hugh McIlvain established a lumber business near Philadelphia, the McIlvain family has been immersed in the premium import and domestic lumber industry. With its headquarters located just outside of Baltimore, the J. Gibson McIlvain Company (www.mcilvain.com) is one of the largest U.S. importers of exotic woods.

As an active supporter of sustainable lumber practices, the J. Gibson McIlvain Company has provided fine lumber for notable projects throughout the world, including the White House, Capitol building, Supreme Court, and the Smithsonian museums.

Contact a representative at J. Gibson McIlvain today by calling (800) 638-9100.

Filed Under: Construction

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