If you’re a contractor, you know how important it is to choose materials that deliver on durability, performance, and appearance. Whether you’re building a small backyard deck or managing a large commercial install, you need products that make your life easier and keep your clients happy.
That’s why more contractors are turning to Ipe decking. At Old Master Products, we’ve seen the demand for this hardwood skyrocket in recent years. Here’s what makes Ipe such a smart choice on the job.
1. Built for the Long Haul
Ipe is one of the hardest woods available, with a Janka hardness rating of 3,680. This makes it incredibly resistant to wear and tear, even in high-traffic or harsh outdoor environments. It handles:
- Heavy use and impact
- Rot, mold, and insect damage
- Rain, humidity, and extreme sun
If you’re looking for a deck that will last 40 years or more without showing signs of breakdown, Ipe is the right call.
2. Low Maintenance Means Fewer Callbacks
Once installed, Ipe requires very little maintenance. It does not need to be sealed or treated to remain structurally sound. Over time, the wood naturally weathers to a soft silver-gray, which many clients love. For those who want to preserve the rich brown tones, a simple oil application once or twice a year will do the trick.
Less maintenance means fewer questions and complaints from your clients down the road.
3. Premium Look That Sells Itself
One of the biggest advantages of Ipe is its appearance. It has a rich, natural color with tight grain and minimal knots, giving your finished project a clean and upscale look. It cuts and installs well and lays flat, so you spend less time correcting imperfections.
If you’re trying to win a bid or impress a client, showing them Ipe can help seal the deal.
4. High Fire Resistance for Safety and Code Compliance
Ipe carries a Class A fire rating, the same category as steel or concrete. For jobs in fire-prone areas like California, this can be a major selling point. It also helps meet building codes in stricter zones, giving you more flexibility in project planning and faster approvals.
5. A Responsible, Long-Lasting Choice
Ipe is naturally rot-resistant and extremely long-lasting, which means it avoids the need for chemical treatments. We offer FSC-certified Ipe, sourced responsibly from verified forests. If you’re working with eco-conscious clients or building LEED-qualified projects, this helps you meet their requirements.
6. Available Now at Old Master Products
We keep Ipe decking for contractors in stock in a variety of lengths and widths, so you’re not waiting weeks to get started. Our team knows the product well and can help you choose the right specs for your job, whether it’s residential, commercial, or custom.
Ipe Works as Hard as You Do
As a contractor, you need decking that delivers long-term value, looks great, and installs clean. Ipe checks all the boxes. It’s a product that reflects the quality of your work and makes your jobs stand out for the right reasons.
Visit an Old Master Products location near you or contact your representative to check inventory, get pricing, or request a sample today.