Seattle Ipe Decks - Custom Design and Construction

Exotic Ipe Decking

Our Ipe Decking Design and Construction is the ultimate solution for those who seek unparalleled beauty and enduring quality in their outdoor spaces. Harvested from the lush forests of South America, Ipe is renowned for its rich, deep natural hues and exceptional hardness, making it the ideal choice for high-end decking. Each of our Ipe deck boards is carefully selected to ensure the highest standards of grain, color, and texture, promising a luxurious and unique look for your deck.

Experience the Natural Strength of Ipe Wood Decking

Ipe, also known as Brazilian Walnut, is a tropical hardwood celebrated for its rich, velvety chocolate colors that turn into elegant silver with age. Its dense cellular structure provides an incredibly sturdy surface, capable of withstanding the most demanding conditions, and offers a remarkable lifespan that makes it an excellent investment for any homeowner. Resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestation, Ipe decking demands minimal maintenance while maintaining its beauty year after year.

Our Seattle Ipe Deck Projects

The Benefits of Ipe Hardwood Decking

Ipe is a luxurious South American hardwood that epitomizes strength and beauty. Here's why it's the perfect choice for your deck:

  • Unmatched Durability: Ipe lumber is incredibly resilient with a natural ability to resist rot, decay, and pest infestations and can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for any climate.

  • Low Maintenance: The extremely dense structure of Ipe hardwood repels stains and requires minimal upkeep, meaning your deck will stay in perfect condition with simple, occasional cleanings.

  • Longevity: This robust wood can last up to 40 years or more, significantly outlasting many other decking materials. It's a long-term investment in your home's value and outdoor enjoyment.

  • Aesthetically Superior: Ipe's rich, warm tones and fine-grain patterns create a sophisticated natural beauty that ensures your deck remains the focal point of your backyard.

  • Eco-Friendly Option: Aligned with our commitment to sustainability, our Ipe is responsibly and sustainably harvested from well-managed forests, ensuring your decking is an eco-friendly choice.

  • Safety First: Ipe's smooth deck surface is splinter-free and slip-resistant, making it a safe option for bare feet, little ones, and elderly family members.

  • Customizable Designs: Our expert team tailors each Ipe deck to your personal style and functional needs, ensuring your vision is brought to life with precision and artistry.

  • Increase in Property Value: An Ipe deck is more than an aesthetic enhancement; it's an investment that can significantly boost your property's market value.

Ipe vs. Other Wooden Deck Materials

Overview

Ipe stands out for its unmatched blend of beauty and strength. As the table above indicates, Ipe's impressive lifespan and resistance to weather elements set it apart from other woods like Cedar, Mahogany, and Redwood. It boasts top marks for weather resistance, heat transfer, durability, and aesthetic appeal, outshining its counterparts.

Pros

The advantages of choosing Ipe are clear. Its lifespan eclipses other woods, promising decades of use without significant wear. Its resistance to weather-related damage is superior, ensuring that it remains untouched by the elements. Ipe is also highly durable and able to withstand heavy use without suffering damage, a testament to its dense, rugged nature. Ipe's rich color and grain patterns are visually unmatched, offering a luxurious finish that enhances the visual appeal of any outdoor space. Its slip resistance adds a layer of safety, making it ideal for poolside or frequently wet environments.

Cons

Ipe is one of the more expensive options, which might be a limiting factor for some budgets, and its environmental impact score is lower compared to materials like Cedar, which may concern eco-conscious homeowners. Installing Ipe is more challenging due to its density, which may require specialized tools and expertise, potentially increasing labor costs. Finally, maintenance, while not frequent, can be laborious, as the wood may need oiling to maintain its beauty.

Takeaway

Ipe is the peak of high-performance decking. It provides uncomparable durability and aesthetic appeal that justifies its premium cost. While the investment in Ipe is significant, the long-term benefits are extraordinary. Its lifespan and low maintenance needs provide a compelling argument for its value. Homeowners seeking a deck that stands the test of time and serves as a centerpiece of their outdoor space will find Ipe an exceptional choice. Its drawbacks are considerations rather than deal-breakers, making Ipe a strong contender for anyone looking to invest in top-quality, luxurious decking material.

The Gibson Installation Process 

We work closely with you to bring your vision to life, from the initial design consultation to the final touches. A deep-rooted passion for carpentry is at the heart of our deck design and construction. We don't just build decks; we craft spaces for your family to spend hours of quality time together. Our team has over 100 years of collective experience, allowing us to discover the perfect balance between modern techniques and traditional sophistication. Whether you dream of the perfect relaxation space, a welcoming area for entertaining guests, or the perfect platform for family activities, we'll tailor your design to match your needs perfectly.

Step 1: Blending Tradition with Modernity

Our approach fuses decades of craftsmanship and modern innovation to ensure your Ipe deck is not just a structure but a piece of art infused with character and luxury, built using the latest building technologies while upholding timeless traditional carpentry techniques.

Step 2: Detailed Planning and Execution

We partner with you to carefully plan and construct your ipe deck. Our dedication is to the fine details that ensure your deck's strength and longevity. We select top-grade ipe wood and quality components, ensuring your deck stands up to diverse weather and wear over time.

Step 3: Transparent Communication

Our customer relationships are as strong as our decks. A complete commitment to transparent communication is at the heart of our professional relationships. We value your input and will incorporate your vision into our work while being upfront about what is possible. We promise to maintain an open and honest dialogue throughout your time with us to ensure you are informed and involved at every stage.

Step 4: Quality, Inside and Out

We never compromise on quality. We choose every element of your deck, whether visible or not, for its quality, durability, and aesthetic value. We'll inspect every one of your Ipe planks and pay complete attention to each detail in every phase of construction to guarantee the endurance of your deck.

Step 5: Completion with a Promise

As we complete your project, we leave behind a structure that is a proud testament to our craftsmanship. Our work reflects our love for carpentry and dedication to the beautiful art of woodwork. We don't just build you a new deck; we create a piece of art that will delight you.

FAQs - Ipe Decks

  • Ipe decks are renowned for their longevity, typically lasting over 40 years with proper maintenance due to their natural resistance to rot, decay, and insects.

  • The cost of Ipe decks is on the higher end of the spectrum, reflecting their premium quality and durability. With prices varying depending on the deck size and regional market rate, we invite you to schedule a free estimate at your earliest convenience for an accurate quote.

  • Cleaning an Ipe deck usually requires just a simple brush-down with a soft brush and mild soapy water to remove dirt and debris; for more stubborn spots, a specialized hardwood deck cleaner may be used, followed by a thorough rinse.

  • Staining an Ipe deck is not typically necessary due to the wood's naturally rich color and oils; however, if you choose to stain for aesthetic reasons, it should be done every 2-3 years to maintain the desired appearance.

  • Choosing between Ipe and Mahogany decking largely depends on your priorities; Ipe is harder and more durable, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. Mahogany offers a classic look with slightly softer wood at a potentially lower cost.

  • When debating between Ipe and Cedar decking, consider that Ipe is much more durable and long-lasting than Cedar but comes with a higher cost; Cedar offers a softer wood with a distinct scent and is more cost-effective but requires more maintenance.

  • Opting for Ipe over composite decking is a decision based on a preference for natural wood's beauty and superior durability. Ipe is a solid, dense wood that outlasts composites in lifespan and is less prone to scratching. Still, it comes with a higher upfront cost than most composite materials.