Ipe Questions and Answers

Ipe FAQs - Page 4
(continued from page 3)

Question: I have heard that Ipe wood can move. What does that mean exactly and is it bad?

Answer: Ipe wood does move meaning it expands and contracts and cups with heat and cold and absorption or evaporation of water. All wood moves. But Ipe wood moves the least which makes it the most useful for outdoor applications.

Question: If I want to minimize or stop movement of my Ipe decking, is there a way to do that?

Answer: You can greatly minimize it, but you won't stop it completely. Here's how: Insure that the Ipe decking remains on site (where you will be building the project) for a minimum of 2 weeks prior to construction. Keep it under roof or under a tarp but on skids (not in ground contact). You can keep it in the bundle, but allow the air to get to the ends of the boards. This way the Ipe decking will arrive at ambient humidity. Then apply an Ipe sealer to all four (4) surfaces of each Ipe deck board. (Be sure to use an Ipe sealer and follow the manufacturer's directions!) Wait until thoroughly dry and then wait an extra day or two and then install your decking. Be sure to apply an Ipe end seal to the ends of each board before installation. Apply the final Ipe sealer top coat after installation and be sure to follow the Ipe sealer manufacturer directions.

Question: If I do it this way, do I still need to use those "biscuit hidden fasteners" that put those ugly gaps between the boards? Man, I hate big gaps in a beautiful hardwood floor, know what I mean?

Ipe FAQs continued on page 5

Look at all the money you'll save!

Virginia Decking & Remodeling LLC
P.O. Box 41157
Fredericksburg, VA 22404

For Ipe Design & Build deck and porch services
that are creatively cost effective...
see our main web site at
www.vadeck.com

For a fast way to price out an Ipe deck
(labor and/or materials) see our online
Deck-Porch-Sunroom Construction Cost Calculator.

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