Attaching a deck to your home can raise your property value by over $8,000.
And that’s just an average. Getting creative with the design or using exotic wood, such as Ipe, can make that number get even higher. However, working with exotic wood is a bit more difficult than using traditional wood types.
We’ve put together this guide to help you learn seven important tips that’ll make installing Ipe decking easier, so let’s get started below!
1. Let It Sit
You shouldn’t use your Ipe wood right after you buy it. Instead, you need to let it sit outside for at least seven days to give it a chance to acclimate to the weather conditions in your area.
Start by creating a base for the Ipe wood out of bricks or blocks of wood (leaving the wood directly on the ground can dirty and damage it). Then layer the wood in a stack on top of them, leaving new blocks or wood shims between each new board. This will help ventilate the wood and make the adjustment period faster.
Make sure you leave the wood uncovered during this time. Remember, you want each Ipe board to have enough ventilation, and a tarp or other covering will just get in the way.
If you think it will rain during these seven days, you can put a large piece of plywood on top of the stack. However, you’ll want your Ipe wood to be fully dry before you build with it, so do you best to schedule the acclimation period during a warm and dry time of the year.
2. Wear the Proper Safety Equipment and Use the Right Tools
While your Ipe wood is acclimating, you should make sure you have all the right equipment and tools on hand.
Keep in mind, Ipe wood is much harder and denser than other types of wood. Because of this, you may not be able to use your every-day tools. Using technical grade tools will give you the best results when building with this type of wood.
You should also wear all the proper safety equipment at all times while working on your project. This includes things like gloves, safety goggles, dust mask, etc. This will protect you from sawdust and splinters.
3. Leave a Big Enough Gap Between the Boards
Ipe wood needs proper ventilation. Without it, the boards are more prone to damage, such as cupping or surface checking. Make sure you leave about 3/32 inches between each board.
Without this space, the wood also won’t have enough room to expand and contract with the weather. While you likely won’t notice these changes, not giving the wood enough space to move can cause problems and lead to damages.
4. Work as Far Away From the Edges as Possible
Do your best to drill any holes or hammer any nails as far away from the edges of the Ipe boards as possible. This will reduce the risk of splitting the ends.
However, depending on the design of your deck (or other projects), this might be unavoidable. If you have to work close to the ends, be careful. Taking your time and double-checking everything is the best way to keep your Ipe in good condition during the building process.
5. Seal the Ends
You should seal any fresh-cut ends right away. Sealing these edges will prevent checking, which will help the wood last longer.
6. Finish the Wood With the Right Sealant
Once you’re done building your deck or other structure, you need to decide if you want to seal the Ipe boards or not. Sealing the wood will protect it from the weather, stains, discoloration, and other types of damages.
However, you don’t have to seal the wood if you don’t want to.
Left unprotected, Ipe wood will fade to a beautiful silver/grey color over time. If you like how this natural aging process looks, you may want to skip the sealant.
If you do want to seal your Ipe, you should check the wood for any sticker marks first. While these sticker marks will fade with time, you can get rid of them right away with a bit of light sanding, and you’ll need to do this before you seal the wood.
7. Keep up With the Maintenance
The most important part of Ipe wood maintenance is resealing.
Every few years (about two to three years), you need to sand off the current layer of sealing or any small surface damages. Then you can apply a new layer of sealant. If you don’t do this, the old sealant will wear off and be unable to protect your wood.
You should also do your best to clean any spills or stains right away. Use a cleaning product that is safe for Ipe wood and spot clean the area. This will keep the wood from discoloring or damaging any farther.
What You Need to Know About Installing Ipe Decking on Your Property
If you’re getting ready to start installing Ipe decking on your property, make sure you follow the tips on this list. And remember, Ipe wood is heavy! You may need some help lifting it, moving it, and working with it. Trying to get through the project on your own isn’t worth the risk of getting injured.
Not sure where to buy Ipe wood?
We’ve got you covered! Make sure you take a look at some of our Ipe wood options today!