How Do You Maintain an Ipe Deck?
Congratulations! Your new ipe deck is finished and it looks amazing. While ipe is considered to be low maintenance, all exterior surfaces are regularly subjected to dirt, dust, plant matter, and the elements. To keep your deck in tip-top shape as we head into the fall, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Characteristics of Ipe
You already know that ipe is tough. One of the hardest woods available, Ipe scores a 3,150 lbs/f on the Janka hardness rating. The wood is naturally resistant to insects and rot. It’s so dense that it not only sinks in water, but deck installers must prescrew drill holes to avoid breaking screws. Even just cutting through ipe wood can wear out saw blades. Ipe’s beautiful natural colors range from chocolate brown to darker olive. However, like other species, it turns silvery gray with sunlight exposure.
What Kind of Maintenance Does Ipe Require?
Let’s start with the basics. Ipe decks should be regularly kept clean of dirt and debris. Sweep leaves off the deck, don’t let rusting items sit on the wood, and hose off mud or spills. You can use a hose to safely clean off your deck but be careful when using a power washer. Experts don’t agree if power washers should be used or not but if you want to go that route, make sure you don’t go higher than 1200 psi. If mold starts growing on your deck, considering using a bleach solution.
What About Sealers?
If you love the color of your new deck and want to preserve those hues, you’ll need to use a sealer on your ipe every year or two. Consider Hardwood Decking’s Ipe Oil Hardwood Deck Finish & UV Protector. This product protects and preserves the beauty of your ipe deck. It is formulated to penetrate even dense ipe while conditioning the wood and maintaining a natural look.
If you appreciate the rich gray colors of aging ipe, you don’t need to worry about sealers. Only sweeping and washing your deck is required.
Easy, right? If you have any questions, please don’t hesitant to contact us at 866-452-2573 or sales@hardwooddeckingsupply.com.
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