Ipe decking will withstand tough Canadian climate
Ipe decking is a very durable and stable tropical hardwood species from South America. It has a reputation for any application that requires beauty while providing long lasting and structural requirements. Harvested mainly in Brazil this species is made up of some very enduring qualities which other species just can’t provide.
Ipe Decking Technical Info
Weight: Ipe wood decking has specific gravity of 0.85 to 1.08. Air dried density is 66 to 75 lbs. per cubic ft. A 3/4″ thick finish material weights approx. 4.5 lbs. per sq ft. It can withstand weights of automobiles and commercial vehicles when specified into specific commercial projects.
Drying & Contraction (green to kiln-dried): Radial 6.6%, tangential 8.0%, volumetric 13.2%. Small movement after being milled. As the weather changes, average movement for an air-dried deck board about 6″ wide is roughly 1/16″. This makes this species very stable and gives it specific advantages over species such as Pressure Treated that are higher in moisture content.
HARDNESS RATING: Ipe hardwood has a Janka Hardness Rating of 3,680 lbs with air-dried decking and 12% moisture content. When tested (ASTM-D143), an ipe deck is around eight times harder than California redwood & three times stronger than teak. Ipe decking holds up even in harsh climates and extreme conditions. More and more Canadian homeowners and professional trades people are requesting Ipe because of its density and durability to withstand the harsh Northern climate.
FIRE RESISTANCE – Tested by the National Fire Protection Agency (ASTM-E84). Ipe wood decking received the highest classification for Flame Spread: Class A, Uniform Building Code, Class 1. As our climate has become warmer with less rain forest fires in the Western Provinces of Canada and the United States have burnt many homes along with their decks. Ipe will burn but is less likely to ignite under such conditions.
SAFE – Our ipe decking exceeds the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements for Static Coefficient of friction in a wet environment. Ipe wood decking has also met the ASTM-C1028-89 test requirements as well. This makes this wood attractive to elderly or handicap people to help prevent against falls.
STRENGTH – Three times stronger than Cedar. An ipe deck will be able to structurally handle many square feet of snow which is a real plus for Northern climates such as Canada.
To learn more about this species and its specific advantages please visit www.ottercreekforestproducts.com




Otter Creek 



