Cumaru is One Type of Brazilian Hardwood Available on the Market Today

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There is a wide variety of Brazilian hardwood available on the market, today, which can be used to build decks, boat docks, and outdoor furniture. In the past, obtaining Brazilian hardwoods was costly and difficult, due to limited supplies. However, thanks to responsible tree farms, it is easier to obtain the type of wood you desire, such as Ipe, Cumaru, or Garapa. The responsible farming and harvesting of Brazilian hardwoods has not only helped to restore many of the lost forests in the country, but also has created a renewable source, so that future generations are able to enjoy the beauty and charm these kinds of woods bring to your projects. Continue reading →

Ipe Hardwood Decking Has Design Benefits over Other Materials

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You are able to take advantage of several design benefits of using Ipe hardwood decking over other materials. This Brazilian hardwood is naturally fire resistant and difficult to burn. This wood has a service life of 50 years, or longer, with the proper maintenance. It is environmentally friendly, because it was turned into decking from renewable forests. Further, the wood has resistance to termites, mold, and fungus, so it does not require any added protectants or sealants. Continue reading →

Different Reasons for Building a Cedar Lumber Deck

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There are a variety of different reasons people build decks onto their homes or in other outdoor areas. One reason is to increase the resale value of the home. It is important to remember, if you are selling your home, your deck needs to look new. If it looks worn, in need of repairs or maintenance, it does not allow you to ask more for the property. Another reason people install decks is to have an area they are able to enjoy the outdoors, without having to worry about ground pests like ants. Because most decks are raised off the ground and use treated wood, like cedar lumber with insect protection, it keeps ants and other bugs from getting onto you deck. Continue reading →

Choose Environmentally Friendly Decking Materials like Cedar Boards

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You should make sure the kind of decking materials you purchase are obtained from renewable resources. By taking the time to find out if your building supplier obtains their wood, boards, and other materials from responsible sources, you ensure you are doing your part for the environment. For example, cedar is a type of wood typically grown in many of the western states. However, cutting down redwood forests simply to harvest the wood is not a responsible choice, as this harms the environment. Instead, there are specific suppliers who constantly replant new trees to keep the supply of cedar readily available, and to protect our forests and the environment. Continue reading →

Expand Your Cedar Decking to Add an Outdoor Kitchen or Spa

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One reason people remodel their decks is to make them bigger, to accommodate hot tubs, spas, and outdoor kitchens. Because these items take up a large amount of space, it involves expanding a standard 10 by 10 deck to a larger size. Some people keep their existing deck and simply add onto it. Expansion projects are fine, if your current cedar decking is in great shape. However, if the boards are older, starting to warp, or have other noticeable issues, it may be better to start over with a brand new design. Continue reading →

Working with Ipe Wood Is Slightly Different from Traditional Woods

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Working with Ipe wood is slightly different from what you might be accustomed to. This kind of wood is a Brazilian hardwood, also known as Brazilian walnut, which has a Janka hardness rating of 3,680 pounds. This means it is much harder than maple, oak, and other types of woods used to build decks, furniture, and other such items. Due to its density, it is recommended to use special carbide tipped tools, keep edges of blades sharp, and always predrill holes for screws. It is also a good idea to have plenty of extra drill bits on hand, as well as a few extra saw blades. Continue reading →

Using Cedar Board for Decking Does Have Additional Costs to Consider

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When comparing Cedar board to other decking materials, you have to consider other costs besides the cost of the wood. This is a common mistake most people make whenever they are shopping for deck boards. While Cedar is often less expensive than certain Brazilian hardwoods, it does require regular and routine maintenance. It is important you consider your annual maintenance costs, along with the costs of the wood to get a more accurate cost comparison between decking materials. Continue reading →

Calculate Wood, Deck Clips, and Other Materials Required to Build Your Deck to Establish a Budget

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Prior to getting started on a new deck project, you need to take the time to sit down and figure out a budget. Just like you have budgets at work for your projects, you need to establish one for your DIY projects at home. Setting a budget ensures you do not spend more than you intend on your project. Further, it helps to guarantee you are able to complete your project and not run out of money. Some people who do not take the time to perform this necessary step end up running out of money long before their deck has been completed. Instead of being able to enjoy their brand new deck, they have to wait until they get more money to complete the project. Continue reading →

A Cedar Wood Deck Project Starts with an Idea

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Most people have a general idea in their mind about how they want their finished cedar wood deck to look once the project is completed. How you get your vision from an idea to a finished project starts with coming up with a plan. First, you need to ask yourself some simple questions, but avoid getting too overly concerned with every little detail at this early stage. For example, are you installing a brand new deck, adding onto an existing one, or making repairs? Continue reading →

Take Time to Prepare and Plan Any Time You Start a New Project Using Ipe Decking

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Take Time to Prepare and Plan Any Time You Start a New Project Using Ipe Decking

Building a new boat dock, deck, or a raised patio using Ipe decking requires taking the time to properly prepare and plan. Initially, you will want to start by measuring out the location where you intend to build. You might want to mark off the area using small wooden garden stakes and garden twine. Using these items helps to ensure you have the proper size and are taking accurate measurements. Once you have your measurements, the next step is to prepare a drawing. Your drawing should include the location of support posts and stairways. Further, if you intend to include railings, or built-in seating, you need to add these to your plan to guarantee you remember to order plenty of decking materials to complete your project. Continue reading →