Ipe Deck Maintenance - Cleaning and Sealing Hard Wood

Hard woods like Balau, Ipe (e'pay), Brazillian Redwood, Cambara, Mahogany, Pau Lope, Oak, Walnut, Purpleheart and Teak, are becoming a product of choice for those who can afford them for reasons ranging from durability to resistance to decay and insect attack. Despite being difficult to machine (cut, drill shape etc.) because of the density and hardness which is typical of exotic hardwoods, they tend to be really heavy! So heavy in fact, that ipe for example will actually sink in water!

Ipe, Cambara, Mahogany and Brazillian Redwood and Purpleheart are used more commonly for decking material because of their durability and availability. Teak and Balau are used mostly for outdoor furniture and is limited by scarcity and cost. Some furniture manufacturers are also producing products made from Ipe and Cambara. Still, cost being a factor for most, those who want the ultimate in durable decking material will gladly pay the money up front to save it in the future. Washing and sealing of these woods require attention to their special needs regarding products to clean and seal them with. They are so dense in structure that many common consumer based products will not penetrate them and soon fail, leaving a miserable excuse for the next contender to deal with. Regardless of the product applied, sealers will not last as long on hard woods as on softwoods, due to the lack of porosity of most hard wood species. Consumers also need to be aware of the VOC changes that went into effect in 2005. These changes have had an impact on the coatings industry, and on product performance.

The science of wood care is ever growing and we're constantly keeping abreast of current wood care technology advances that enable See Dirt Run!™ Inc. to continue to provide you with the very best in expert and knowledgeable service every time!

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Only tinted sealers and stains offer UV protection for your wood. Clear sealers offer no UV protection. Pressure washing your home's brick or siding is equally important, as are other wooden items such as fences, gazebos, and playground equipment.We're certified by the PWNA in Wood Restoration & Preservation.