Arguably more important than the design and budget, material selection is the foundation of any successful project. The materials you choose can affect your project’s final look, how long it lasts, and its overall performance. In projects where safety is paramount — such as when building outdoor structures like decks, patios, or railings — cutting corners on materials can lead to costly and dangerous consequences. It’s best to invest in superior materials like ipe Brazilian hardwood.
Know your options
Aside from Ipe (which is the most expensive but also the most durable choice), there are other types of Brazilian hardwoods available in the market. Before you make any purchase, it’s essential to know the differences and similarities between each type.
Brazilian ipe deckingis a top choice for homeowners and builders worldwide because of its remarkable ability to resist rot, decay, and insect damage. Often referred to as ipe or Brazilian walnut, it has a rich color palette ranging from olive brown to deep black, often with striking grain patterns. Notably, ipe ranks among the toughest woods available, which makes it a premium decking choice decking in Europe, Asia, and the United States.
Next, there’s Garapa. This wood is known for its warm honey-yellow color, which gradually tans to a light brown as it ages. Its grain pattern is quite unique, with irregular and interlocked lines that give it an appealing aesthetic. It’s another solid choice for flooring and outdoor structures, thanks to its Janka rating of 2820 (Ipe has a rating of 3680).
Then, there’s Tigerwood. As its name suggests, it features striking tiger-like stripes on a reddish-brown base, which makes it a visually stunning choice for decking and outdoor applications. It is harder than any domestic hardwood species, which makes it a solid choice for interior flooring, furniture, and cabinetry.
Other choices that are popular in the Brazilian hardwood market include Cumaru, Massaranduba, and Apitong. Massaranduba is popular for bridge decking and gardens, Apitong is a solid choice for truck flooring, while Cumaru is often used for docks and exterior decking.
Understand your needs for the space
Now that you have an idea of the types of Brazilian hardwood available, it’s important to understand your specific needs for the space you’re looking to use it in. Will it be a sunbathing deck or a high-traffic commercial space? Is it intended for gathering and entertaining or simply for visual appeal? Different Brazilian hardwoods have varying degrees of slip resistance, maintenance requirements, and hardness, so it’s important to consider these factors when making a decision.
Familiarize yourself with local regulations
Where you live can affect which type of wood is best for your project. While all hardwoods can handle different weather conditions well, your location might change what installation method is most suitable. It’s a good idea to talk to your deck-building expert about any local guidelines or rules so you know what to plan for as you start this project.
Look at different project portfolios
Now that we’ve mentioned how a deck-building expert can help you choose the right type of Brazilian hardwood for your space, it’s time to take a closer look at what they’ve accomplished. Check out their portfolio online or ask for examples of completed projects that include Brazilian ipe decking. This will give you a visual reference and help spark ideas for your own project.
For expert assistance and premium, sustainably sourced Brazilian hardwood options, including Brazilian ipe hardwood, be sure to check ABS WOOD. Call their team at 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840 to request a quote.