SG Construction Ipe Deck Project
Peter Koenig Designs, a landscape architectural firm based in Alamo, California, was responsible for the overall design of this residential project. The deck work performed by SG Construction involved replacing an existing redwood deck, installing staircases down both sides of the deck, integrating the structure with surrounding infrastructure, and providing access to a newly installed pool.
"We wanted to make a visual statement that would integrate the four landing levels, an existing brick patio next to the house, an upper table area and the firepit area," explained Scott Groschel, Owner of SG Construction.
The caliber of the project made Ipe the clear choice to replace the old redwood deck surface. The Ipe added warmth, elegance and cohesion to the various disparate elements, including an uneven brick walkway and upper brick patio area. "Ipe is one of the densest species on the planet, so it takes time and patience to work with it, but the results are so worth it," Groschel said. In addition to the Ipe decking, other woods used in the project were pressure treated Douglas fir for the substructure, western red cedar for caps on the steel railing and redwood for the deck's skirt.
"When you build decks, you are building things that people dream about. It's hard work, but it's rewarding. There is always room to grow and improve, new methods and techniques to learn. There are opportunities to be creative with curves, arches, and design elements, to express your art and just do really cool things."
— Scott Groschel
Frequently asked questions
Why was Ipe chosen to replace the redwood deck?+
Ipe was selected because the caliber of the project called for a premium material that would add warmth, elegance and cohesion to disparate elements like the uneven brick walkway and upper brick patio. Ipe is also one of the densest wood species on the planet, making it exceptionally durable.
What other wood species were used alongside Ipe in the deck project?+
The substructure was built with pressure treated Douglas fir, western red cedar was used for caps on the steel railing, and redwood was used for the deck's skirt.
Who designed the residential Ipe deck project?+
Peter Koenig Designs, a landscape architectural firm based in Alamo, California, was responsible for the overall design of the project, while SG Construction performed the deck work.
What was the scope of SG Construction's work on the deck?+
SG Construction replaced an existing redwood deck, installed staircases down both sides of the deck, integrated the structure with surrounding infrastructure, and provided access to a newly installed pool.
What design elements did SG Construction aim to integrate with the new deck?+
According to owner Scott Groschel, the goal was to make a visual statement that tied together four landing levels, an existing brick patio next to the house, an upper table area and the firepit area.
Is Ipe difficult to work with on decking projects?+
Yes. Because Ipe is one of the densest wood species on the planet, it takes time and patience to work with, but according to Scott Groschel the results are worth the effort.