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Hardwood Decking in Houston
How Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Garapa, Massaranduba & Red Balau perform in Houston's hot & varied climate.
Summer High
100°F
Winter Low
35°F
Annual Rainfall
35"
Humidity
Moderate-High (coast) / Low (west)
UV Index
Extreme
Primary Challenge
Extreme Heat + UV + Humidity Variation
Houston Climate & Decking Challenges
Houston's high humidity and intense heat quickly rot treated pine. Tropical hardwoods provide natural, chemical-free resistance to rot, mold, and warping.
Species Rankings for Houston
BEST OVERALL
Ipe Decking in Houston
Ipe is the ultimate Texas performer. Its 3,684 Janka hardness and extreme density dissipate heat faster than lighter materials — staying cooler than composite at 105°F. Ipe handles both Gulf Coast humidity and West Texas dryness without warping or excessive checking. Class A fire rated for wildfire-prone areas.
BEST VALUE
Cumaru Decking in Houston
Cumaru is the smart money pick for Texas — delivering Ipe-level heat and UV performance where it matters most, at 30-40% savings. Its 3,330 Janka hardness handles Texas extremes well, and its warm reddish-brown color complements Southwest architecture beautifully.
HEAVY DUTY
Massaranduba Decking in Houston
Massaranduba's extreme density (67 lbs/ft³) makes it exceptionally resistant to Texas heat and UV. The dense grain structure minimizes surface checking in West Texas dry air. Its deep redwood-like color adds distinctive warmth to any Texas property.
VISUAL APPEAL
Tigerwood Decking in Houston
Tigerwood's dramatic striped grain creates stunning visual impact against Texas landscapes. Good heat and UV tolerance at 2,160 Janka. The bold color pattern is especially popular in contemporary Texas ranch and Hill Country home designs.
BUDGET PICK
Garapa Decking in Houston
Garapa can work for covered Texas patios or moderate-exposure areas. For fully exposed decks facing 100°F+ heat and extreme UV, we recommend the denser species (Ipe, Cumaru, Massaranduba) for maximum longevity and minimal maintenance.
Installation Adjustments for Houston
Acclimation
10-14 days (longer in West TX dry air; 7-10 on humid Gulf Coast)
Board Spacing
1/4" gaps in dry regions (West TX, Hill Country) to allow expansion when rain comes; 3/16" on humid Gulf Coast
Fasteners
316 stainless for Gulf Coast; 304 acceptable inland
Best Installation Timing
Best: October-April. Avoid installing in peak summer heat (June-August) — boards can be too hot to handle safely
Special Considerations
End-sealing is critical in dry TX climates to prevent end-checking. Acclimate boards in shade, not direct sun. Consider 12" OC joist spacing for 5/4 boards in extreme heat zones for maximum stability.
Houston Maintenance Calendar
Spring
Full cleaning and inspection. Oil application before summer UV intensifies. Check all cut ends for sealer integrity.
Summer
Spot maintenance only — too hot for full oiling. Hose down deck before barefoot use on 100°F+ days.
Fall
Second oil application. Clean accumulated dust and debris. Inspect fasteners.
Winter
Light cleaning. Good time for any repairs — mild TX winters are ideal working conditions.
Oiling Frequency for Houston
Oil 1-2x/year depending on UV exposure. Fully exposed TX decks benefit from 2x. Shaded areas 1x is sufficient.
Hardwood vs. Alternatives in Houston
| Feature | Ipe Hardwood | Pressure-Treated Pine | Trex Composite | Cedar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lifespan in TX | 75+ years | 7-10 years | 15-20 years | 8-12 years |
| Surface Temp at 100°F | Moderate — walkable | Moderate | 150°F+ — burns feet | Moderate |
| UV Resistance | Excellent | Poor — grays fast | Fades over time | Poor — grays in 1 year |
| Gulf Coast Humidity | Excellent | Rots in 5-7 years | Mold-prone | Rots quickly |
| West TX Dry Performance | Excellent (minimal checking) | Splits and cracks | Warps and gaps | Severe cracking |
| 25-Year Total Cost | Lowest | Highest (3+ replacements) | Higher | Highest (4+ replacements) |
Hardwood Decking in Houston — FAQ
Pickup Locations in Houston
Save on shipping — pick up your hardwood lumber at a terminal near you, or we ship anywhere in Houston.