We have put together a series called Ipe Questions based on the usual questions we get from customers as they work through their purchase process with us. This will be part 1 of 4 on Ipe Deck Questions.
These are the questions that our salesman, George Guy, said are the most common when starting the buying process. These are the questions that are asked very early in the process about the we carry and what you should order.
What Grade do you sell in Ipe decking?
We carry all clear grade premium Ipe wood. This is the highest grade wood available which is hand selected and is essentially free of defects. The lower grades that we do not carry are commercial and utility grade Ipe wood which are all exported to Asia and Europe mainly.
What sizes of wood deck lumber do you sell for Ipe decking?
We carry 4 inch and 6 inch widths in 5/4 inch and 1 inch thickness as our standard decking thickness. The lengths we offer are from 7 to 20 feet long. Though we do have ipe wood available in 4 to 12 inch width and 1 to 8 inch thickness available as well.
Can I pick out certain lengths of Ipe decking?
If we have them in stock, you are more than welcome to pick specific lengths. But we may not have certain length depending on our current stock availability.
Do I save money depending on lengths of Ipe decking I order?
Yes, because certain lengths are harder to come by and of a high demand they are priced differently.
Do you need to use hidden fasteners or top screws?
Depends on the look you want. When installed, your options are flush mounted top screws, counter sunk and plugged top screws, and hidden fasteners. So it all depends on if the appearance of screws is an issue with your aesthetic plan for your porch or decking. That said, top screwing is usually more secure than hidden fasteners and hidden fasteners add approximately $1 per foot to the price of your project.
What thickness should I order?
This choice depends on many different factors including what you want from your deck including the final appearance – do you like thicker or thinner boards? Also the area and environment live in has a major effect because depending on amount of extreme temperatures, you would want thicker boards for the snow loads. What is your intended use (poolside, restaurant, ocean dock, etc.)? Depending on traffic loads, building codes, and intended usage, you will want different thicknesses. Will this decking be used for a deck or a porch? Depending on the final usage, you may want thicker boards. What type of under deck ventilation is available? The less ventilation below, the more space you want to put between your boards and the thicker the boards you will want to fight any flex from moisture. Also, the amount of direct sunlight can effect the optimum thickness. So, really the best plan is to design your deck, and then reach out to us for advice on the best thickness for your needs.
Find Part 2 here:
Ipe Decking Questions: Installation and ordering ( Part 2 of 3)