Main Features of Brazilian Walnut Decking Wood

Brazilian Walnut decking wood is fast becoming one of the most popular choices for creating backyard patios and pool areas that are distinct, aesthetically pleasing, and highly durable. Also known as Ipe wood, pronounced "e-pay," this tropical hardwood is a discerning choice for outdoor uses because of the distinct features it boasts.

Brazilian Walnut decking wood is a suitable choice for lanais, pools and other similar uses because of its stunning appearance. Visually, it looks very much like mahogany, which means it has a warm, dark coloration. While its beauty is what inspires many to choose it over other decking options, there are other features that make it stand out as a superior choice. Here are just a few of the features that set Brazilian walnut apart from many other decking materials:

• Its durability – While Brazilian Walnut will require a stain unless its natural silver that appears with age is desired, its durability makes it a superior choice. This type of wood can boast a lifespan of more than 45 years under standard outdoor conditions if it is properly maintained. This alone makes

Brazilian Walnut an excellent choice when undertaking complicated projects. Once decking is in place, it can be counted upon to perform for decades.

• Its fire rating – Wood decking materials can pose some fire concerns, but this is not the case with Brazilian walnut. This decking has an A fire rating, which is the same as concrete and steel.
• Its hardness – Brazilian Walnut decking is extremely hard. This heavy wood is also virtually knot free and is also does not warp. Those properties make it ideal for outdoor use, especially in high water areas, such as around pools.
• Its resistances – Brazilian Walnut is favored not only for its hardness and durability but also its propensity to resist hazards other woods cannot. This type of wood has fairly high concentrations of tannic acid, which helps prevent rotting and discourages the growth of fungi and mold. In addition, insects tend to shy away from this wood.
• Its ability to maintain its looks – Ipe wood decking’s natural hardness means it is also quite capable of resisting many surface scratches. As long as it is properly stained to retain its coloration, Brazilian Walnut will hold its appearance after years of use.

If the plan is to build a deck or other structure that will be exposed to the elements, Brazilian Walnut makes a discerning choice. While more costly than other building options, this material withstands many of the hazards that can destroy standard decking within only a few years of use. Its hardness combines with resistances to ensure beauty that lasts. Once it is in place, however, consumers can count on performance that lasts.

About the Author:

This article is written by Bruce Master. He gained an interest in woodworking at an early age. Bruce Master started working with contractors in the 1970s as a salesman at Ace Hardware in Miami. Over the years, he discovered and fell in love with Brazilian woods. He has built decks, docks and specialty items using many of the Brazilian woods. Today, Bruce loves his job as Operations Manager for ABS Wood, a Brazilian wood retailer.

This article is written by Bruce Master. He gained an interest in woodworking at an early age. Bruce Master started working with contractors in the 1970s as a salesman at Ace Hardware in Miami.