Ipe Questions and Answers

Ipe FAQs - Page 6
(continued from page 5)

Question: From what I have read, the most common problems with Ipe seems to be cupping or bowing of the wood. What causes this?

Answer: Improper ventilation... improper selection of decking thickness and width... improper air drying on site prior to installation... improper sealing prior to installation... improper installation. A lot of things can cause it. It takes experience to work with this material and install it right.

Question: If my Ipe deck will get a fair amount of sun, how frequently should I seal it?

Answer: That totally depends upon the sealer you use. Could be twice a year if you use something dumb like Thompsons. Could be every other year if you use something beautiful like Sikkens. Might be once a lifetime.

Question: Are you serious about once a lifetime?

Answer: There is a company that claims to seal an Ipe deck for life and guarantees it for life. I am researching to see if we should offer this service to our clients. Cost is $5/SF. If true, it would give you the best of both worlds: The beauty of an exotic hardwood and the freedom and low cost of a low maintenance composite.

Question: How do your Network of Suppliers expect payment for the wood?

Answer: Depends on the supplier... credit card, cashier's check, certified check, wire transfer, irrevocable transferable letter of credit from your bank... just depends on the supplier.

Question: I've never done a wire transfer. Why would they ask for payment that way?

Ipe FAQs continued on page 7

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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