6 Top Tropical Decking Species
There are many excellent tropical decking species that all look and perform differently. Here are the top six tropical decking choices to consider.
Many in the wood products industry agree that Ipe is an unrivaled species for decking applications. However, the price continues to climb every year. It is important to educate yourself and pay very close attention to alternative decking products and discuss additional options that are available in the market.
1. IPE: No matter how you look at it, Ipe is the number one option for decking. It is truly a magic wood that remains stable and strong in every environment. For exterior uses, Ipe does not have to be dried so the turnaround time from forest to job site is greatly reduced. As one of the hardest woods in the world, durability is never in question. Since Ipe is the premium decking wood, it can be found in many applications from boardwalks to private residences. The superior performance and high demand of course result in a higher price point.
2. CUMARU: This species is only slightly softer than Ipe and is often known as Brazilian Teak. There are two variants in circulation: yellow and red Cumaru. The red variant is more often used for decking purposes. Cumaru does have some stability issues and is prone to shrinkage. Careful kiln drying is a must to produce a good decking product. Using Cumaru in a dry climate for decking can be slightly risky because of these shrinkage issues. The red brown color is similar to Ipe, and when combined with its high density and hardness, makes Cumaru a viable alternative to Ipe. It is readily available and about 2/3 the price.
3. TIGERWOOD
Frequently asked questions
Why is Ipe considered the best wood for decking?+
Ipe is stable and strong in every environment, and as one of the hardest woods in the world its durability is never in question. For exterior uses it doesn't have to be dried, reducing turnaround time from forest to job site.
What is a good alternative to Ipe decking?+
Cumaru, also known as Brazilian Teak, is a viable alternative to Ipe. It has a similar red brown color, high density and hardness, is readily available, and costs about 2/3 the price of Ipe.
What is the difference between red and yellow Cumaru?+
Cumaru comes in two variants, yellow and red. The red variant is more often used for decking purposes.
Does Cumaru have any drawbacks as a decking material?+
Cumaru has some stability issues and is prone to shrinkage, so careful kiln drying is essential to produce a good decking product. Using it in a dry climate for decking can be slightly risky due to these shrinkage issues.
Why does Ipe cost more than other decking woods?+
Ipe's superior performance and high demand result in a higher price point, and the price continues to climb every year. It is the premium decking wood, used in applications ranging from boardwalks to private residences.
How hard is Cumaru compared to Ipe?+
Cumaru is only slightly softer than Ipe. Combined with its high density, this makes it a strong-performing decking option.