Ipe Decking
Durability: Ipe, also known as Brazilian Walnut, is one of the hardest and most durable woods available, with a Janka hardness rating of 3,680 lbf. It is incredibly resistant to rot, decay, and insects, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and demanding environments. Ipe also has a Class A fire rating, similar to concrete.
Appearance: Ipe is typically olive-brown to dark brown and features a tight grain with subtle variations. Over time, it will weather to a beautiful silver-gray if left untreated.
Maintenance: Ipe requires little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and application of UV-protective oils to maintain its color.
Cost: As one of the more premium hardwoods, Ipe is priced higher than most other decking options, but its durability makes it a long-term investment.
Cumaru Decking
Durability: Often referred to as Brazilian Teak, Cumaru is nearly as durable as Ipe, with a Janka hardness of 3,540 lbf. It offers strong resistance to rot, decay, and insects, making it a reliable alternative for outdoor projects.
Appearance: Cumaru has a reddish-brown to golden-brown color that darkens with age, giving it a warm and inviting appearance. Its grain is less tight than Ipe, but still visually appealing.
Maintenance: Similar to Ipe, Cumaru requires low maintenance, with occasional oil treatments to preserve its color.
Cost: Cumaru is typically 20-30% cheaper than Ipe, making it an excellent alternative for those looking for a high-quality hardwood without the premium price tag.
Tigerwood Decking
Durability: Tigerwood, with a Janka hardness of around 2,160 lbf, is not as dense as Ipe or Cumaru but still offers great durability. It can last for 25+ years with proper care, making it suitable for most outdoor applications.
Appearance: Tigerwood is known for its striking appearance, featuring orange-brown hues with dark veining that resembles a tiger’s stripes. This unique look makes it a favorite for homeowners looking for something distinctive.
Maintenance: Tigerwood requires UV protection to maintain its vivid coloring, but otherwise, it has minimal maintenance needs.
Cost: Tigerwood tends to be more affordable than Ipe but slightly more expensive than Garapa, making it a good mid-range option.
Garapa Decking
Durability: Garapa, also known as Brazilian Ash, is the least dense of the four options, with a Janka hardness of 1,280 lbf. Although it is softer than Ipe and Cumaru, it still offers good resistance to rot and decay, making it suitable for lower-traffic areas.
Appearance: Garapa has a light, golden color that darkens with age, providing a warm, natural look. Its lighter hue is perfect for those who prefer a brighter deck.
Maintenance: To maintain its golden appearance, Garapa requires regular oil treatments. Without treatment, it will weather to a silver-gray.
Cost: Garapa is the most affordable option of the four, offering great value for homeowners on a budget who still want the durability of hardwood.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hardwood decking material depends on your priorities. If durability and long-term investment are key, Ipe or Cumaru are excellent choices. For a more unique aesthetic, Tigerwood offers striking visuals, while Garapa provides a budget-friendly, lighter option with good overall performance.
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