Brazilian Decking Product Comparison

Go Natural with Brazilian Decking products

Handling and Storage: Ipe is supplied partially air dried and should be stored out of direct sunlight and allowed to stabilize and acclimate to the installation environment humidity levels before installation. It is best to allow for groundside ventilation in the design as proper air circulation is necessary for long term stability of Ipe. When installing, allow 1/16" gap between the deck boards for circulation of air. When Ipe is fully seasoned, shrinkage of approx. 1/16" on 4" wide boards to 1/8" on 6" wide boards may be expected.

Cutting and Drilling: Use name brand carbide tipped saw blades and for smooth cuts due to the hardness of Ipe. Pre drill a pilot hole and countersink when using screws as fasteners.

End Sealing: Ends should be sealed immediately after cutting using a clear aqueous wax end sealer to reduce end checking.

Fastening: Coated or galvanized steel fasteners may be used, but they tend to have a shorter life span and may cause staining of the wood. Stainless steel screws are considered the best and they will also eliminate potential chemical reactions or staining at the fastener location.

Recommended Ipe Spans: You will see may areas and blogs stating that you can use 1x6 Ipe to span 24" or more. Should I use 5/4 or 4/4 decking?  Great video answer here.   For any deck with 16" centers on joists, 4/4 decking is ample.   This question usually arises when a builder is scoping 20" or 24" on centers.   Using 20" centers for joists instead of 16" centers really does not save you much time or money.  I've noticed other websites that have used 24" centers on joists with good results. So, this 20" or 24" center must be okay. We do not recommend it because none of our contractors have ever tried it. They simply prefer 16" centers because they like the added strength and security this provides with very little difference in cost or labor.   In summary, 5/4 costs 35-40% more, is not structurally necessary and doesn't add anything aesthetically.   The difference you will pay between 5/4 and 4/4 is far greater than the 16" center PT joists and labor to install them.  Finally, always check with your local building code before starting your deck project.  Many areas in Florida and Louisiana (and other southern states) will mandate deck and dock minimums. 

Insects: All Brazilian decking is Resistant to Termites, Pine Beetles, Marine Borers.