I Can't Believe It's Ipe

I Cant Believe Its Ipe


Ipe also referred to as Brazilian Walnut and Ironwood is used in both interior flooring application and outdoor decking. Ipe is prized for its strength, longevity and beauty. This exotic hardwood is available FSC certified and is gaining tremendous attention for its superior qualities. Customers who are looking for a low to no maintenance, insect, mold, fungus and rot resistant wood that has beautiful natural and warm tones will be ecstatic to discover this jewel for any project. Bridges, piers, docks and marinas as well as boardwalks are being specified with this hardwood due to the capacity Ipe is capable of holding and the strength required in commercial applications. When FSC certified Ipe is used, LEED points can be generated. Architects and interior designers looking for green build material are excited to use natural materials with so many wonderful qualities rather than man made products.

Lets take a look at bridges, piers, docks and marinas. All are exposed to weather, water and outside elements such as salt, sand, & foot traffic. This type of abuse can cause deterioration in as little as one year if the right material is not used. Engineers, builders and contractors understand the magnitude of this decision and become Ipe customers once they educate themselves on the actual products. There are cities throughout the country that have selected Ipe because they dont want to repeat the process. Take a look at Miami boardwalk in Florida and the Atlanta Boardwalk in Georgia. There are marinas throughout California that will use nothing but Ipe. Fishermans Wharf in San Francisco and Shelter Island Marina in San Diego are just a couple of commercial applications.

Many projects throughout the US are now calling for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) points especially government projects and custom design homes. More homeowners are requesting and even demanding green products and design. The most prestigious architects and designers understand the importance of utilizing this certification process. The Forest Stewardship Council certification fulfills the requirement for LEED points for wood products. They certify companies for responsible forest management. This is a process that requires stringent processes involving annual audits and inspection of the facilities along with financial commitments. Processes must be in place to cut and transport the lumber in a responsible manner with proper paperwork. FSC certified Ipe from Advantage Trim & Lumber is just the right product for those projects.