When it comes to choosing the right type of lumber for your marine building project, there’s a lot to consider. Harsh coastal conditions require materials that are strong, durable, and water-resistant — materials like Ipe lumber. If you need high-grade Ipe wood to complete your next marine construction project, the experts at Decks & Docks have you covered. Call or visit one of our locations today and we’ll supply you with the right resources for the job.
WHAT IS IPE?
Ipe (pronounced “EE-pay”), also known as Brazilian Walnut, is a type of hardwood from South America known for its natural durability, density, and hardness. This extremely strong material is highly resistant to water, insects, rot, mold, and splinters. Its beauty and incredible weathering abilities make it an ideal choice for a variety of marine construction projects.
No building material is flawless, so there are a few drawbacks you’ll want to consider. Because it’s so dense, Ipe is much heavier and more difficult to work with than pressure-treated wood. Pre-drilling is often required to prevent the wood from splitting and cracking, but because it’s so easy to maintain, the quality of this material is worth the extra time and effort spent on initial installation.