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.

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 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.

If you’re among the 82% of Americans whose home has an outdoor living area, you likely are always looking for ways to make your space more relaxing. Choosing the right wood for your deck is critical to its longevity, but it also is a great way to help yourself relax in the knowledge that your outdoor space will remain undamaged no matter what the weather is like.

Brazilian Teak decking, also known as Cumaru wood, is the perfect material to use if you want this peace of mind. Read on to learn the main advantages of this wood variety!

1. It’s Gorgeous

One of the main reasons that Cumaru decking is an excellent choice is that it is incredibly beautiful. The visual appeal partly stems from its medium red-brown hue, which is unlike the heartwood of any other tree. This color is appealing and unlikely to fade over time, making it the perfect option for those who want sophisticated decking.

Because it has such a warm hue, it’s the perfect choice to pair with warm lighting. It stands out when paired with yellow, orange, and red deck furniture, and adding a fireplace to your outdoor space will really make Brazilian Teak decking shine. Plus, its color is smooth and the grain is deep, which is the perfect throwback for those who want elegant antique-inspired spaces.

2. It’s Consistent

Many decking materials have inconsistent color and graining, which isn’t the case for Brazilian Teak.

While multiple boards may be slightly different shades than others, this looks amazing when they are placed together into an array of different ruddy colors. The important thing is that each board is evenly-hued and has consistent graining.

Additionally, because Cumaru wood is smooth and features flat grains, there’s no need to worry about it splintering your feet. You can safely walk around on your decking without worrying about injuring yourself.

3. It’s Doesn’t Dent or Chip

You may worry that Cumaru wood is attractive at the cost of durability, but this luckily isn’t the case. Brazilian Teak is extremely dense lumber and won’t dent or chip when weight and pressure are applied to it. It can therefore withstand heavy deck furniture as well as people dropping things on its surface.

The main alternative to Brazilian Teak decking is Burmese Teak, which is 3x softer than it. This is definitely something to consider when choosing between these two Teak varieties.

Its hardness also means that it will not scuff when walked on. While there will be some normal wear and tear over time, you don’t need to worry about jumping children, running pets, and wandering adults scratching it with their shoes or feet.

4. It’s Weatherproof

Brazilian Teak wood is weatherproof in addition to being hard and difficult to dent. It’s water-resistant and won’t rot when exposed to the elements. This is critical when choosing a wood that will make up the majority of your outdoor living space.

Most wood decking will absorb moisture from humidity even in dry seasons, which will warp the wood. You likely won’t notice what a large problem this warping is until the flooring is bent, sagging, and 100% unable to be fixed. That’s why Cumaru wood is a top-tier investment for deck renovations.

5. Maintenance Is Easy

While some woods will require a lot of maintenance in outdoor spaces, this isn’t the case for Cumaru. You don’t need to worry about resealing it often (as you would with more porous woods). Because of its water resistance, you also don’t need to worry about scrubbing mold and mildew off the surface.

Additionally, you do not need to worry about staining the wood, which would be an essential task with most types of decking. Staining and treatment are meant to prevent rot, after all, which isn’t a problem that Brazilian Teak users need to worry about.

Maintenance of Cumaru decking pretty much consists of sweeping it periodically to prevent dust buildup. You may need to wipe it down with soap and water every once in a while, but this isn’t likely assuming that you live in a climate where you get at least some rain.

6. There Are Multiple Varieties

When you shop with Ipe Woods, you can choose from many different sizes such as 3/4″ thickness with a 2.5″ width, 1″ thickness with 3.5″ width, and 3/4″ thickness with 5.5″ width. Planks can come in random lengths to give your decking a more natural and engaging appearance, but you can also select specific length options for uniformity.

To make the installation process easier, you can also select the type of board that you want to purchase. Eased-edge options are planks that have no grooves in them to slide together. You need to lay them and install them on your own.

Eased-edge boards are the least expensive option, but for some people, the difficult installation isn’t worth the money. That’s why we also offer both pre-grooved and tongue-and-groove options so that you can fit them together more easily. Laying them down will not take too long and not require professional installation, which can save money in the long run.

Get Brazilian Teak Decking Today

Now that you know why Brazilian Teak decking is a top choice for outdoor living spaces, it’s time to begin your home renovations. Contact Ipe Woods USA’s experts on lumber and decking for more information about Cumaru wood.

Not only are we happy to help you decide whether or not it’s the right option for you, but we also are happy to point you in the direction of the boards that best suit your needs. We look forward to chatting with you soon!

Have you been looking for the most unique and stunning wood to use for your deck? Look no further! Tigerwood may be the answer to what you’re looking for. A hardwood like no other, it has many benefits aside from just looking beautiful. There’s a reason why so many homeowners are choosing to make their next deck out of this wood. Are you interested in finding out why tigerwood decking is so popular? We’ll cover all its pros and cons in this article.

What Is Tigerwood?

Tigerwood is a gorgeous type of hardwood that comes from many other countries. You’ll find it in Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and even Brazilian Tigerwood.

It’s a popular choice for many different parts of the home, including flooring and hardwood decking. This is because of its hardness and durability.

The tree itself is comprised of sapwood and heartwood. They are the reason for their beautiful color.

Why Does Tigerwood Make a Good Decking Material?

To start, a tigerwood deck is one of the most beautiful additions you can add to your home.

It can easily impress your visitors and guests with its stunning patterns. When finished, it will make your backyard a place that you’ll love to be in.

Aside from this gorgeous feature, there’s so much more to know about this wood as a deck. Here are a few other benefits that you’ll find with tigerwood decking.

Hard Hardwood

If you’re looking for a durable deck that can withstand a lot, then tigerwood is a great material for you.

Hardwoods are rated on the Janka scale, which rates them from soft to hard. The harder the wood the higher the number on the scale is.

Tigerwood ranks at 2,160 on the Janka scale, meaning that it’s among some of the hardest hardwood that you’ll find. What that means for your deck is that it will take a lot to damage or impact it.

Being able to withstand so much, there’s no wonder why so many homeowners choose it.

Resistance

One of the best benefits that you’ll find from tigerwood is that it’s resistant to many things. This resistance can even be strengthened by sealing the wood.

When you use tigerwood when building a deck, you won’t have to worry about the rain. Tigerwood is water-resistant making it a great choice for the outdoors.

This also means that there’s less chance of the wood rotting and being infested with bugs.

It’s also scratch-resistant. However, it’s always best to limit the amount of scratching it sees to keep it in its best shape.

For homeowners who want a wood that stays looking its best for years to come, tigerwood is the best way to go.

Lifespan

Tigerwood has been known to last up to 50 years when indoors. Outdoors, it typically lasts half of that at 25 years.

To make it last for many years, it should be well maintained. This can be done through regular cleaning and maintenance.

By taking care of it, you’ll be able to keep it for a long time to come.

Cost-Effective

Tigerwood has a similar price to other hardwoods like it, but it’s a little more expensive than softwoods.

It’s a great investment if you want a material that will look beautiful, withstand the elements, and last for many years to come. Priced by board length, you can choose from a few options when building your deck.

If you’re not sure of how much you need, be sure to ask a professional.

What Kind of Maintenance is Needed For Tigerwood?

Like all types of decking, tigerwood needs some maintenance here and there too.

One of the most important things to do to keep your deck in good shape is to keep it clean. Give it a sweep once a week to make sure that there’s no debris sitting on it.

This will keep it looking beautiful and stop it from getting scuffed up over time.

Aside from regular cleaning, you should also be sure to keep it sealed. Sealing can help to boost its longevity and keep it in top shape.

One problem that many deck owners face is fading. Tigerwood is prone to fading due to the sun hitting it.

There are a few ways that you can combat this problem.

The first is to make sure that you move anything on the deck around now and then. This will allow the UV rays to hit all spots of the deck evenly so that one area doesn’t look more faded than another.

One last way to deal with this is by applying hardwood deck oil. This can help to protect your deck from fading due to sunlight.

Where Can I Get This Beautiful Wood?

Whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor, you need a supplier to get beautiful tigerwood.

It’s important that you choose a supplier with extensive knowledge of the hardwood. Be sure they know the best practices when using it for decking.

With exotic hardwoods, you want to be sure that you’re getting authentic imported wood. A trusted and reputable supplier will ensure this and help you through every step of the way.

At Ipe Woods USA, we’re proud to bring you only the finest of tigerwood for use when building a deck. It’s authentic and sure to make a good impression.

We have so much expertise and knowledge to share with our customers about tigerwood.

Are You Considering Tigerwood Decking for Your Project?

For a deck like no other, tigerwood is one of the best hardwoods that you can turn to. Mimicking the pattern of a tiger, it’s beauty will last you for many years to come.

Tigerwood decking materials are important to have on hand when building. To make sure that you’re prepared, you’ll need a supplier.

At Ipe Woods USA, we carry many different types of exotic hardwoods including tigerwood. We welcome you to have a look at all our different types, as well as use our resources to learn more about them.

If you’re looking to build a tigerwood deck, check out our selection of tigerwood today!

Since the average American homeowner spends between $18.371-$76,017 on home renovations, it’s important that you get the most bang for your buck. This means using only the highest-quality materials and installing them carefully and meticulously. It also means investing in wood that is durable while looking amazing. When it comes to wood, Ipe wood is the most durable and attractive that money can buy. This makes it perfect for home exterior renovation efforts.

Read on to learn all about Ipe wood and its many benefits as a material for siding, fencing, and beyond!

What Is Ipe Wood?

Ipe wood, also known as Lapacho or Brazilian walnut, is a wood that’s found in South America. The trees that it comes from grow best in tropical climates, which make the Tropical Americas the perfect place to find it. The heartwood is a reddish brown, but it can also have olive or yellow hues in many situations.

Ipe wood also is very textured, which makes it attractive for exterior home applications. The medium grain has lines that come in various textures. Whether you want them to be patterned or interlocked or to come in clean, straight lines, there’s a cut of Ipe wood just waiting for you to find it.

Why Is It Ideal for Exterior Renovation?

Ipe wood is the ideal wood for exterior renovations for reasons other than aesthetics as well. It’s a very durable wood and is resistant to water damage and rot caused by insects. It also won’t be damaged by humidity or excessive heat. This makes it the perfect option for weathering the elements.

Additionally, Ipe wood is incredibly low maintenance. It doesn’t require any chemical treatments and doesn’t need to be replaced often. In fact, since it is the one of the densest and hardest woods on the globe, it can last for decades without needing replacement. Because it is resistant to flame and water alike, there’s also nothing that can stop it from functioning properly as siding or decking.

Our Ipe wood is also sustainably sourced, so you don’t need to worry about negative environmental impacts, either! The forests that it comes from in the Tropical Americas are sustainably managed and there is space for renewable usage.

Where Can It Be Used?

Ipe is a versatile variety of wood. Because of its durability, it can be used for a multitude of applications that many wood types cannot.

One of the main places that you will find Ipe wood outside a home is as siding. Wooden siding made from Ipe is notoriously low-maintenance and only needs to be polished once each year to retain its brown hue. However, if you don’t polish it, it will just fade to a desirable and unique yellow or gray. This is the more common approach.

Many people also use Ipe for deck or patio flooring. It’s the best decking wood on the market because it’s hard enough to handle foot traffic and even heavy object falling onto it like branches. Additionally, it doesn’t allow for mold growth, so the wood will last a long time even in more humid climates.

Another great application of Ipe wood is as fencing. If your home has Ipe siding, having a fence to match is essential to creating a cohesive exterior design scheme. Your house will look majestic and high-class when you use this heavy and majestic wood for multiple design applications.

Also, because the boards we sell for all applications are milled especially for each project, every order is customized. Working with us to create an Ipe exterior ensures that your home will be individualistic and one-of-a-kind!

Varieties of Ipe Wood

While Ipe wood doesn’t come in different colors or designs, we offer a variety of cuts so that you can choose the best option for your home. We offer planks in a variety of sizes so that you can choose the best fit for your siding, decking, patio flooring, and any other applications that you would like to use them for.

We also offer Ipe wood with multiple types of edging. Eased-edge Ipe, the standard variety, has smooth and rounded corners. This is especially important if the planks are being used on a deck or patio floor. After all, you don’t want to continuously poke your feet on sharp wood corners!

However, for easier assembly, you can select and purchase pregrooved Ipe. These cuts have grooves already installed so you don’t need to use any power tools or other machinery to apply them to their intended location. All you need to do is use the hidden fasteners to hold them together.

If you’re having professional installation done, eased-edge Ipe is generally the better choice. However, those doing DIY installation will likely prever pregrooved since Ipe wood is incredibly hard and notoriously difficult to saw through.

Start Your Renovations Today

While there are many materials that you can use when renovating your home, Ipe wood is the perfect choice on many levels. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s durable, long-lasting, and makes for one-of-a-kind exterior design that you’re sure to love.

Now that you know why Ipe wood is perfect for your 2020 exterior renovation, it’s time to get started! Contact us for more information on the Ipe siding, fencing, decking, and more. Our experts are happy to help you find the perfect cuts of wood for your home project, so we look forward to hearing from you soon!