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Hardwood News

Cautionary Guide for Purchasing Ipe Wood

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Ensure you are informed and protected when purchasing Ipe wood by understanding the industry’s common malpractices. This guide outlines essential considerations for selecting ethical and reliable suppliers.

1. Misrepresentation as Importers

Beware of companies that claim to be direct importers of Ipe wood but frequently procure their stock from other distributors. Such misrepresentations can affect the wood’s traceability and legality, emphasizing the need for buyer diligence in verifying a supplier’s true source. 

2. Selling Other Species as Ipe

Some vendors may sell other wood species as Ipe, exploiting its appearance similarity when new. This deceit not only affects the quality and longevity of your purchase but can also impact your project’s integrity. Always seek proof of species through certifications or testing.

3. The Risks of Illegal Logging

Illegal logging practices, including the trade of “blood lumber,” pose significant ethical and legal risks. Importantly, purchasing illegally sourced lumber can lead to felony charges under U.S. law, regardless of the buyer’s awareness. Strict compliance with the Lacey Act and CITES is essential to avoid these serious legal consequences and to support sustainable forestry practices.

4. Deceptive Sizing Practices

Some companies market non-standard sizes of Ipe wood as superior, claiming benefits like enhanced stability. However, such claims can be misleading as unusual sizes may not offer the same performance and can complicate future repairs or extensions due to their rarity. Wider or thicker boards can be prone to issues like cupping, emphasizing the need for standard sizing and reliable supplier claims.

5. Financial Instability and Business Closure Risks

Investing in a company with financial instability risks your funds, especially if the business fails. Such suppliers might not fulfill orders or provide post-sale support, underscoring the importance of vetting the financial health and reputation of your Ipe wood supplier.

6. Inflated Claims of Company Longevity

Verify any claims a company makes about its history in the business. Some may exaggerate their experience to appear more reliable or established, which can be misleading and affect the level of trust and quality you expect.

7. Insufficient Customer Support and Expertise

A supplier lacking in knowledge or unable to provide adequate customer support can greatly impact your experience and project success. Ensure your supplier has a proven track record of expertise and reliable customer service.

8. Selling Lower-Quality or Short Boards

Companies offering lower-quality or short boards at reduced prices may seem appealing, but such materials can lead to increased waste, additional labor, and aesthetic concerns. Careful assessment of the wood’s quality and dimensions is crucial for your project’s success.

9. Failure to Stand Behind Products

Accountability is key in any transaction. Suppliers unwilling to address or rectify issues with their products can cause significant problems and additional costs. Choose suppliers with solid commitments and responsive support.

10. Short Shipping Issues

Receiving less material than ordered can disrupt your project and incur unexpected expenses. Ensure your supplier is reputable and has a history of accurate and complete deliveries.

Choosing Ipe Woods USA: A Commitment to Excellence and Integrity

By selecting Ipe Woods USA, you choose a partner known for its ethical sourcing, quality products, and exceptional customer service. We stand firmly against the industry’s malpractices, ensuring our clients receive the best Ipe wood while upholding environmental and legal standards. Trust Ipe Woods USA for your Ipe wood needs and support sustainable and responsible forestry practices.

 

Hardwood News

The Longevity of Ipe Wood: Unraveling the Secrets of Its 75-Year Lifespan

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In the world of construction and outdoor design, few materials can boast the resilience and aesthetic appeal of Ipe wood. Revered for its remarkable durability and natural beauty, Ipe (pronounced ‘ee-pay’), also known as Brazilian Walnut, has become a staple in high-end decking, furniture, and architectural projects. One of the most striking characteristics of this tropical hardwood is its astounding lifespan, with many experts citing a durability of up to 75 years or more. But what makes Ipe such an enduring material? This article delves into the intrinsic properties and external factors that contribute to the longevity of Ipe wood.

Intrinsic Properties

-Density and Hardness: Ipe wood is incredibly dense, making it one of the hardest woods available. This density is a natural defense against the common causes of deterioration in lesser woods, including insect infestations, rot, and mold. The tight grain structure of Ipe also means it’s less prone to splintering and wear over time.

-Oil Content: Ipe naturally contains a high oil content, which enhances its ability to resist moisture, a common nemesis of wood durability. This inherent oiliness repels water, preventing the warping and swelling that often plague softer woods.

-Fire Resistance: Interestingly, Ipe wood boasts a fire-resistance rating comparable to concrete and steel. This makes it an excellent choice for areas where fire hazard is a concern, further contributing to its longevity.

External Factors

-Climate Adaptability: Ipe thrives in a variety of climates. Whether it’s exposed to the scorching sun, salty sea air, or incessant rains, Ipe maintains its integrity far longer than most wood types. This adaptability stems from its tropical origins, where it evolved to withstand a broad spectrum of weather conditions.

-Maintenance Routine: Although Ipe is low-maintenance compared to other woods, its longevity can be significantly extended with proper care. Regular cleaning, occasional oiling, and ensuring proper ventilation around the wood can prevent moisture buildup and maintain its natural defenses.

-Installation and Use: How Ipe is installed and used can also impact its lifespan. Proper installation, ensuring adequate spacing for ventilation, and using the right fasteners to reduce wood stress can all contribute to extending the life of an Ipe deck or furniture.

Environmental Considerations

The sustainability of using Ipe wood is a topic of growing importance. Ipe comes from the rainforests of South America, and responsible sourcing is crucial to protect these vital ecosystems. Consumers and industry professionals are encouraged to seek out suppliers who adhere to strict guidelines for sustainable harvesting and provide certification from organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

The longevity of Ipe wood is not just a matter of its remarkable natural properties but also how it’s sourced, installed, and maintained. Its resistance to insects, decay, and even fire, combined with proper care and responsible sourcing, make Ipe a smart choice for those seeking a balance of beauty, durability, and sustainability. As more individuals and industries turn towards sustainable practices, the legacy of Ipe can continue to grow, not just in the structures it supports but also in the global effort to preserve our planet’s precious resources.

Hardwood News

Exposed: The Hidden Limitations of Composite Decking You Need to Know Before Building Your Deck

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Welcome to Ipe Woods USA

At Ipe Woods USA, we pride ourselves on offering top-notch natural hardwood decking solutions, with a special focus on the exceptional qualities of Ipe wood. While acknowledging modern alternatives like composite decking, it’s essential to understand their shortcomings compared to the natural durability, elegance, and long-lasting beauty of Ipe hardwood. Here’s a detailed comparison based on industry insights:

Color Fading

Composite decking is prone to color fading when exposed to sunlight over the years. Although some high-end brands offer fade-resistant options and warranties, none can match the enduring beauty of Ipe wood. Ipe’s rich color can gracefully silver with age or maintain its luster with appropriate treatment, offering a timeless appeal that composites can’t replicate.

Scratch Resistance

Everyday activities can leave scratches on composite materials, affecting their appearance over time. In contrast, Ipe wood boasts exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, ensuring that your decking remains pristine and inviting even under the strains of frequent use, heavy furniture, or pet activities.

Stain Resistance

Spills and stains can permanently mar composite decking if not promptly addressed. Ipe wood, on the other hand, offers superior stain resistance. With the right finish and prompt care, Ipe decks can resist common staining agents, and even in the case of a mishap, they can often be sanded and refinished to restore their original beauty.

Heat Absorption

Composite decking, especially in darker hues, can absorb and retain heat, making it uncomfortably warm underfoot in direct sunlight. Ipe wood naturally remains cooler, providing a more pleasant and barefoot-friendly surface even on the hottest days.

Material Integrity

The integrity of composite decking can be compromised when cut, exposing inner materials to moisture and leading to swelling or warping at the ends. Ipe wood, celebrated for its density and natural oils, resists moisture penetration and maintains its form and integrity even when cut, ensuring a consistently beautiful and stable decking surface.

Consider the Source of Your Advice

Sales Incentives and Genuine Advice: When considering your decking options, it’s crucial to be mindful of where your advice is coming from. Companies that sell composite decking often offer bonuses or higher commission rates to their salespeople for selling more products. This incentive can sometimes lead to a bias towards selling you a specific product, rather than guiding you towards the best solution for your needs. At Ipe Woods USA, we believe in honest, customer-centric service, ensuring that you make the best decision for your unique situation without any hidden agendas.

Warping and Weakening

Composite decking is not immune to the forces of nature and usage. Its material composition, while resistant to certain elements, also introduces a set of limitations. One notable issue is the potential for warping and weakening over time. Unlike solid wood, composite requires closer joist spacing to prevent sagging, often necessitating joists to be placed 12’ or less apart, compared to the 16’ spacing viable with hardwood decks like Ipe.

Slippery Surfaces and Heat Retention

The inherent characteristics of composite materials can limit their usability in certain environments. The oil-based nature of the plastics used in composite decking causes water to pool on the surface, leading to a slippery deck, especially around wet areas like pools or docks. Furthermore, composite decking tends to retain heat, making it uncomfortably warm and potentially hazardous for bare feet during hot weather.

Expansion and Contraction: The Hidden Culprit

Composite decking is subject to significant expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, often more so than traditional wood. This movement can lead to splitting, delamination, and peeling. Over time, such fluctuations can cause the decking to shrink, warp, twist, and bend, resulting in unsightly and often unusable decking surfaces. Unfortunately, the replacement costs for damaged composite decking are exacerbated by the fact that most warranties do not cover labor costs, which are typically the most significant part of deck construction.

The Real Cost of Warranties and Litigation

It’s also worth noting that many composite decking brands have been involved in class-action lawsuits. While a warranty might cover the cost of the composite material, it often doesn’t account for the more substantial expense: labor. Winning a legal battle or having a warranty claim accepted may provide some financial relief, but it doesn’t address the labor costs and the inconvenience of replacing or repairing a faulty deck.

At Ipe Woods USA, we believe in the timeless beauty, durability, and reliability of hardwood decking. Ipe decking not only offers a naturally elegant aesthetic but also a structural integrity and usability that composite materials can’t match. For those who value longevity, safety, and true quality, Ipe Woods USA is your trusted partner. We are committed to guiding you through your decking choices, ensuring that you’re informed and confident in your decision-making process.

Hardwood News

Ipe Wood Unveiled: Elevating Your Creations with Beauty

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Exploring the Advantages of Ipe Wood

When erecting decks, fences, or siding, there’s a myriad of wood options to consider. While familiar choices like pine, oak, and cedar abound, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Enter Ipe wood, a compelling alternative that brings uniqueness and resilience to the table.

The Allure of Ipe’s Aesthetic

Ipe wood’s natural beauty is undeniable, lending an air of elegance to every creation. Its distinctive hardwood appearance can be tailored to preference through versatile finishing techniques. With minimal knots, the grain appears seamless, bestowing enduring charm.

Unsealed Ipe wood outdoors matures to a dignified silvery gray, an elegant transformation. For those who prefer to retain the original allure, yearly sealing is recommended. This effort ensures sustained visual appeal over the years.

Strength and Resilience in Ipe Decking

Ipe wood stands out for its remarkable strength and durability. Measured on the Janka hardness scale, Ipe surpasses Hickory’s hardness twofold and Teak’s 3.5 times. This attribute proves invaluable in outdoor settings, extending its life up to 75 years while maintaining its appeal.

Ipe wood’s flexibility in arrangement, coupled with materials like wrought iron, sparks innovative, minimalist designs.

The Density Edge of Ipe Wood Decking

Ipe wood’s impressive density translates to an array of benefits. Its fire resistance rivals concrete and metal due to this density. The same quality guards against decay and curbs susceptibility to termites and pests. Though denser than other woods, the payoff is undeniable.

Effortless Maintenance of Structures

Ipe wood is a low-maintenance marvel. Its dense composition makes it resistant to splintering, warping, and loosening. Unlike other woods requiring regular refinishing, Ipe can endure decades without much attention.

While some seal the ends of Ipe decking boards to prevent splits, it’s not mandatory. Regular cleaning and sweeping suffice, with occasional oil application preserving longevity and appearance. Those who adore the natural wood tone can find quality Ipe oil products.

Resisting the Heat

Ipe wood emerges as an ideal choice for decks and outdoor paths, particularly on hot days. Its high-density composition prevents excessive heat absorption, setting it apart from materials like composite decking. While it may feel warm underfoot on sweltering days, Ipe remains comfortably touchable.

Interior Applications of Ipe Wood

Ipe wood’s rich tones effortlessly elevate interior spaces, exuding sophistication.

While commonly used for outdoor projects like decking and siding, Ipe’s versatility extends indoors. Siding, for instance, withstands weather and minor impacts. The wood’s potential even extends to furniture, crafting exquisite tables, countertops, and more. Indoors, Ipe’s durability is further amplified.

Origins of Ipe Trees

Through meticulous chains of custody and sustainable management, we champion natural reforestation.

Ipe trees are indigenous to South America and sustainably harvested for years. Our commitment ensures only legally obtained, sustainable Ipe wood is offered, underscoring our dedication to quality.

The Value of Ipe Wood

Admittedly, Ipe wood commands a higher price than many alternatives due to its scarcity. However, the myriad benefits justify the investment. Extended lifespan, lasting allure, and minimal maintenance expenses make the initial cost worthwhile. Over time, savings accumulate from reduced replacement and upkeep costs.

Seeking Superior Lumber for Your Next Project?

If you’re in pursuit of Ipe wood or an extensive array of wood choices for upcoming projects, we’re here to help. Our comprehensive inventory presents diverse options for decks, fences, and more. We ensure competitive pricing, guaranteeing optimal value for your endeavors. For inquiries or orders, feel free to contact us.

Hardwood News

Unleashing the Natural Beauty of Wood Slabs: The Versatility of Epoxy Resin and More

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Wood slabs are large pieces of natural wood that have been cut from the trunk of a tree. They are an incredibly versatile material that can be used for a wide range of purposes. From furniture and home decor to countertops and outdoor projects, wood slabs are a unique and beautiful addition to any project.

In this article, we will explore the many different ways that wood slabs can be used and the benefits of incorporating them into your designs.

  • Furniture One of the most popular uses for wood slabs is to create unique and beautiful furniture pieces. From coffee tables and dining room tables to benches and bookshelves, wood slabs can be used to create stunning and functional pieces that add character and warmth to any room. The natural grain and live edge of the wood give each piece a unique and one-of-a-kind look.
  • Home Decor In addition to furniture, wood slabs can be used to create a wide range of home decor items. From wall art and picture frames to cutting boards and serving trays, the natural beauty of wood slabs can add a touch of warmth and elegance to any room.
  • Countertops Another popular use for wood slabs is to create unique and durable countertops. Wood slabs can be used to create beautiful kitchen and bathroom countertops that are both functional and stylish. The natural grain and color variations of the wood create a warm and inviting look that is perfect for any home.
  • Outdoor Projects Wood slabs are also a popular choice for outdoor projects. From benches and picnic tables to garden paths and decking, wood slabs can be used to create beautiful and durable outdoor spaces. The natural resistance of wood to weather and rot makes it an ideal choice for outdoor projects.
  • Art Projects Finally, wood slabs can be used to create beautiful and unique art projects. From sculptures and carvings to wood burning and engraving, the natural beauty of wood slabs can be used to create stunning works of art.

In addition to their beauty and versatility, wood slabs also offer a number of practical benefits. Wood is a renewable resource, making it an eco-friendly choice for your projects. Wood slabs are also durable and long-lasting, making them a great investment for any project.

Another great way to use wood slabs is to enhance their natural beauty by adding a layer of epoxy resin. Epoxy resin is a clear, glossy material that can be poured over the surface of the wood to create a smooth, protective layer that highlights the natural colors and patterns of the wood.

Epoxy resin can also be used to create a unique and stunning effect by combining two or more wood slabs together. By sandwiching objects, such as shells or stones, between the slabs and then pouring the resin over the top, you can create a one-of-a-kind piece of art that showcases the natural beauty of the wood and the objects embedded within it.

Using epoxy resin also provides a number of practical benefits. It protects the wood from scratches, stains, and other damage, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas. It is also resistant to water and other liquids, making it an ideal choice for countertops and other surfaces that are exposed to moisture.

In summary, adding a layer of epoxy resin to wood slabs is a great way to enhance their natural beauty and create a unique and durable piece of art or furniture. Whether you are combining two slabs or just highlighting the natural colors and patterns of a single piece, epoxy resin is a versatile and practical material that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any project.

Wood slabs are a unique and beautiful material that can be used for a wide range of purposes. From furniture and home decor to countertops and outdoor projects, the natural beauty of wood slabs can add warmth, character, and style to any project. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional designer, wood slabs are an excellent choice for your next project.

Hardwood News

How to Build a Hardwood Deck: Planning, Execution, and Installing Joists

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Building a deck using hardwood is a great way to add value and aesthetic appeal to your home. Hardwood decks are durable, low-maintenance, and provide a natural beauty that lasts years. However, building a deck can be a complex process and requires careful planning and execution to ensure that it is both safe and functional. This article will cover the critical steps of building a hardwood deck, from planning and designing to installing the joists and decking boards.

1. Plan and Design your Deck

The first step in building a hardwood deck is to plan and design your deck layout. This involves determining the size and shape of your deck, as well as its location and orientation. Consider factors such as access to your home, existing landscaping, and any local building codes or regulations that may affect the design of your deck. You should also consider the style of your home and choose a hardwood that complements its aesthetic.

2. Prepare the Site

Before you start building your deck, you will need to prepare the site. This involves clearing the area of debris or vegetation, leveling the ground, and installing footings or piers. The footings or piers will provide a solid foundation for your deck and help to prevent settling or shifting over time.

3. Install the Deck Frame and Joists

The next step is to install the deck frame and joists. The frame provides the overall structure of your deck, while the joists are the horizontal supports that run across the top of the frame. The joists should be spaced according to the specifications of your hardwood decking, which will typically range between 12 and 24 inches on center.

4. Install the Decking Boards

Once the frame and joists are in place, it is time to install the decking boards. Hardwood decking boards are typically 3/4 inch thick and range in width from 2 inches to 6 inches. The boards should be attached to the joists using stainless steel screws or hidden fasteners, which will help to prevent warping and splitting over time.

5. Finish and Maintain your Deck

Once your hardwood deck is installed, it is crucial to maintain it to ensure its longevity and beauty. This involves regular cleaning and maintenance, such as sweeping or blowing off debris, washing with Messmer’s cleaner and water, and applying a protective stain as needed if you don’t want it to turn grey.

In conclusion, building a hardwood deck can be a challenging but rewarding process. By following these key steps, you can ensure your deck is safe, functional, and beautiful for years. Plan and design your deck carefully, prepare the site properly, install the deck frame and joists, install the decking boards, and finish and maintain your deck regularly. You can enjoy your new hardwood deck for many years with these steps.

*Please note that the information provided in this article is intended as a general guide only and is not a substitute for professional advice. It is your responsibility to confirm the accuracy and applicability of the information to your particular circumstances and consult with a qualified professional if necessary.

Hardwood News, Tips

4 Essential Factors to Consider When Building or Replacing a Deck

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As a leading provider of exotic hardwoods, Ipe Woods USA understands the importance of creating a deck that not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time. When replacing or building a new deck, there are several important factors to consider that will ensure you end up with a high-quality and long-lasting outdoor living space.

First, you need to consider the material you want to use for your deck. Ipe Woods USA specializes in the supply of Ipe wood, a dense and durable species that is ideal for decking. Not only does Ipe offer a stunning and unique appearance, but it is also highly resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.

Second, you need to think about the design of your deck. A well-designed deck should fit your specific needs and complement the style of your home. Whether you want a traditional or contemporary look, Ipe Woods USA can help you create a deck that meets your vision.

Third, it is essential to consider the size and layout of your deck. The size of your deck should be appropriate for your home and the surrounding area, while the layout should be functional and provide ample space for your outdoor activities.

Fourth, you need to consider the cost of building a deck. While a well-built deck can be an investment, finding a balance between cost and quality is essential. Ipe Woods USA offers a wide range of high-quality Ipe wood products at competitive prices to help you keep your costs under control.

Finally, you need to think about the maintenance required for your deck. Ipe wood is known for its low maintenance requirements, but it is still essential to follow proper maintenance guidelines to ensure the longevity of your deck.

When replacing or building a deck, it is essential to consider the material, design, size, cost, and maintenance requirements. Ipe Woods USA can provide you with everything you need to create a beautiful and functional deck that will last many years.

Hardwood News, Tips

Why You Need Builders Risk Insurance for Any Project 

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Why Ipe Woods Recommends Contractors Have Policies to Protect Them and/or Their Customers

Here is a topic that should be at the top of everyone’s list when doing any major project. What is Builders Risk Insurance? Builders Risk Insurance covers your residential or commercial, renovation, or new build, from start to finish. Some of the coverages included are fire, theft of materials, vandalism, and damage to materials in transit. Depending on the property’s location, storm damage, wind, hail, lightning, and high winds can also be covered.  

You may ask why this insurance would be necessary if their general contractor carries insurance. The reason is that the general contractor’s insurance only covers damages due to their work, not the materials or the individual structure/project under construction. We make this recommendation to help ensure the materials we provide are ensured from these types of issues. These policies are on a per-project/location basis and provide added protection for your project, property, and financial investment. 

We recommend New Republic Insurance Services as they are also the company we use. They have promised to give all Ipe Woods USA customers a quick and easy quote that will protect your project for the duration of construction. Most carrier policies can be quoted and started the same day, with the insured receiving proof of insurance within an hour. They specialize in harder-to-place risks, partially completed projects, and high-value projects/properties.

As many of our customers are high net-worth individuals and large companies that can not risk significant delays and just don’t want the potential of having problems on a job site, this is a great way to have peace of mind on a project.

New Republic Insurance Services will work with homeowners, property investors/developers, and contractors. New Republic Insurance Services can provide builders’ risk insurance policies in all 50 states. You can reach them at 818-564-4068 or go to https://newrepublicinc.com for a quote. 

Please note: This topic is covered due to issues we have seen customers have in the past. This is a great way to ensure your project is successful. We have seen everything from theft of our Ipe and other hardwoods to contractors having life events that prohibited them from working and caused severely delayed projects.

 

We receive no compensation for this referral, information is only for the benefit of our customers.

Hardwood News, Tips

What is the Lifespan of Ipe Wood?

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Our website highlights a durability span of up to 75 years for the Ipe material we offer. This longevity often sparks inquiries about the feasibility of wood lasting for such an extended period. It’s essential to consider several key factors that may not immediately come to mind. Here, we delve into five significant considerations that should be taken into account:

1. Application and Exposure: The lifespan of Ipe material can vary significantly based on how it’s used and the level of exposure it experiences. For instance, comparing the durability of Ipe wood used on a sun-drenched pier versus that on a covered porch will yield distinct outcomes. However, the claim of up to 75 years of durability is substantiated. A notable example is the Coney Island Ipe Boardwalk, dating back to the 1940s, enduring high commercial traffic over several decades. Despite periodic board replacements, the Ipe decking maintains its quality. This boardwalk is positioned in a high-traffic commercial zone, adjacent to seawater, and exposed to full sunlight.

2. Size of Boards: The dimensions of the Ipe boards chosen significantly impact their lifespan. Opting for thicker boards, such as a 5/4×6 instead of a 1×6, enhances longevity. Thicker boards are better equipped to weather the effects of time. Additionally, they allow for sanding, enabling restoration of the wood’s original appearance multiple times. Moreover, thicker boards offer greater flexibility for potential future remediation.

3. Board Modification (e.g., Grooving): Modifying Ipe boards, particularly through processes like grooving, can potentially diminish their lifespan. Grooving weakens the board structure at the point of modification. The presence of holes from predrilling or milled areas similarly increases vulnerability to weathering. Any modification that expands the surface area exposed to weathering elements may adversely affect the wood’s longevity.

4. Treatment: Annual maintenance is not obligatory if the natural greying of Ipe boards is acceptable. We currently recommend the use of Messmer’s and Ipe Oil to maintain the desired finish. Changes in chemical formulations due to regulatory shifts have led to variations in treatment requirements among brands. Some brands necessitate more frequent treatments to preserve the desired finish. While treatments can extend the wood’s lifespan, they are not mandatory for Ipe wood.

5. Lumber Quality: The quality of lumber selected at the time of purchase plays a crucial role in determining the wood’s longevity. Attempting to utilize lower-grade boards to save costs can have implications for durability. Defects common in lower-grade boards, such as knots, are susceptible to the effects of weather, precipitation, and temperature fluctuations. These factors can cause the defects to expand and contract, compromising stability. Optimal longevity is achieved with FAS-grade boards, which exhibit minimal to no visible defects.

In summary, while the claim of Ipe wood lasting up to 75 years is substantiated, several considerations significantly influence the wood’s actual lifespan. Factors encompass the application, board dimensions, modifications, treatment regimen, and lumber quality. Understanding these nuances will empower informed decisions regarding the use of Ipe wood in various projects.

Hardwood News

A Complete Guide to Natural Wood Flooring Trends

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Hardwood floors are a feature that nearly all homeowners want in their homes. They’re loved not only for their look but for the ease of cleaning they provide. Wooden flooring is a classic that has staying power within home trends. With a variety of flooring options, there is hardwood flooring for every homeowner’s style. Whether you’re doing a full remodel or only updating your floors, wood flooring is a great choice. Looking to keep your home’s style up to date? Here are some natural wood flooring trends you should keep an eye on for your home.

Matte Floors

Satin finishes have dominated floor trends for the last few years. Who doesn’t love clean floors that sparkle in the sunlight? But current trends are reflecting more natural influences.

Matte finishes have been on the rise and may overtake satin finishes in the next few years. Many homeowners may worry that a matte finish will look dull and lackluster, but with the right installation, this won’t be true.

This contemporary look creates a cozy homestyle environment. Matte floors can be an eye-catching base to a design when done correctly.

Cool-Toned Finishes

Interior design overall is heading in a light and airy direction. Recently, homeowners and designers have used bright neutrals and natural light to create a timeless look.

Cool-toned finishes are a direct result of this trend. Many people are opting for lighter woods throughout their homes. Whitewash and blonde woods are becoming popular options for people looking for new floors.

The light, airy color scheme makes even the smallest room feel large and open. With whites, grays, and blues still trending in interior design, cool-toned finishes aren’t going away any time soon.

Warm Finishes

The rise of cool-toned floors, however, is having little effect on much-loved warm finishes. Many people are taking one step darker than cool-toned blondes for warm honey-brown and copper-brown floor shades.

These finishes are the best of both worlds. They’re still light enough that they can make smaller spaces feel larger and rooms feel more open, but you also get a warmer, more homey feeling with these slightly darker shades.

Warm finishes are great for anyone who prefers natural-looking wood floors. These shades are also available in many different wood species.

Rustic Unfinished Look

One interior style that continues to be popular is the modern farmhouse. Many homeowners can’t get enough of the mix of cozy and rustic decor. And one element that always a feature of this design is the floors.

The name is a little misleading because the floors are finished. The finish, however, is specifically designed to look unfinished. This is often achieved with a subtle “invisible” oil finish.

An unfinished look has become a popular way to add authenticity to any rustically designed home.

Patterned Layouts

Not only are homeowners getting creative with the color of the floor finishes, but they’re getting creative with the flooring layouts too. Patterned layouts are on the rise because they add an extra dimension and decoration to the floor.

There are many flooring layouts besides the traditional straight pattern. But the three trendiest patterned layouts are chevron, herringbone, and diagonal.

Chevron

A chevron pattern has the floorboards coming together at a point. This creates a stacked arrow look across the floor. You can achieve this look with single-toned and multi-toned planks.

Chevron is a great way to add visual interest to your design and make your home look more custom.

Herringbone

Herringbone is often confused with chevron, but there is a distinction. Similar to chevron, herringbone creates an arrow-like pattern. However, with a herringbone pattern, the planks connect at a 90-degree angle, not at a point.

This is a contemporary design that’s on the rise for many young and first-time homeowners. It’s unique, fits into every room, and can make a space feel larger.

Diagonal

This pattern is often overlooked when homeowners consider new floors, but a diagonal design offers a unique, custom-looking design in your home.

Diagonal floors can highlight design features or create a focal point in the room. Since the lines will run from corner to corner, it can make the room appear larger.

Though your wood floor installation may take longer, the finished design is worth it.

Multi-Toned Boards

If you’re looking for a way to add dimension and vibrancy to your home, then consider multi-toned boards. This can create a unique look that becomes the centerpiece of your design. There are a few ways to try this trend.

You can use as few or as many colors as you’d like in your design. Two and three-toned patterns are most common, but you can have more variation, especially if it’s a natural variation of the wood type.

You should also consider how much contrast the board colors have from each other. There can be a lot of variation with a combination that uses tan, brown, and gray boards – or you can use shades of brown for a more natural look.

Site-Finished Floors

Many homeowners are now opting for site-finished floors rather than pre-finished ones. Pre-finished floors are manufactured and finished in the factory before arriving at your home.

With site-finished floors, you get a smoother and cleaner look. They’re especially good wood floors in the kitchen and bathroom because they don’t have micro-beveled edges that are hard to clean.

Site-finished floors are installed unfinished and stained once the flooring is complete. Homeowners tend to prefer site-finished floors because they look more professional and have consistent color across all the boards.

Natural Wood Flooring Trends For Your Homes

Few features look good in every home. No matter what the interior style is or what architectural features there, hardwood floors look great inside that home.

Hardwood floors are a lasting home trend. No matter how much time has passed, hardwood floors will still be in style and still contribute to a higher home value.

These natural wood flooring trends are a great place to start if you’re looking to add hardwood floors to your home. Quick renovation or a full remodel, these wood floors should be on your list.

Ready to transform your home with new floors? Contact our experts to get a quote on our 5-star service.