Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Care of Ipe Decking

Ipe is a dense Brazilian Hardwood that requires no chemical finish. It resists decay naturally and will weather to a silvery gray color. This seasoning process usually takes about six months to a year. An Ipe deck requires a minimal amount of basic maintenance and upkeep. The following steps will keep it looking its best.

Natural Ipe

    Natural, unfinished Ipe wood resists warping, twisting and water damage typically associated with traditional decking materials due to its density. The wood is smooth and won't splinter over time, making it an ideal deck wood. It can be cleaned and rejuvenated periodically to bring out its natural beauty and no further maintenance is needed.

Cleaning and Rejuvenating

    Pressure washing occasionally will freshen the look of an Ipe deck by exposing more of its underlying color. Test the water pressure in an inconspicuous area and then wash the entire deck evenly, using the same pressure on every area. Streaking can occur if the pressure is not kept even across the decking.

Finishing

    Ipe can be finished if you desire a colored look beyond its natural gray hue, or to prevent natural weathering use a clear sealer. Work on one or two boards at a time and coat their entire length. Stopping in the middle of a board and resuming later will result in uneven coloring. Apply a thin coat of finish with a brush and wipe with a rag. To recoat the deck at a future time, pressure wash and use the same procedure.

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