Sill Plates Iron Woods® Ipe

This Brazilian species is one of the most stable of all the durable timbers. It dries extremely well with little checking, twisting, or bow. It is widely recognized for its strength and natural resistance to decay. It can be used in ground contact without preservatives or additional treatments. The timber has been tested by the US Navy in a Panama Canal study from 1962 showing Ipe to be one of the top performers in resistance to decay, termites, and borers. Of those tested, it was one of the very few that is readily commercially available. Widely used in commercial exterior construction such as boardwalks, piers and benches, it has recently become the best choice for residential decks due to its low maintenance, attractive color, and extremely smooth surface that has stood the test of time. It is a heavy timber, approximately 69lbs. per cubic foot when dry, generally sinks in water, and is fire resistant. Ipe has many common and trade names including Brazilian Walnut, Bethabarra, Tajibo, Mataverde, Pau Lope, and other trademark names.