By 
When deciding which product to choose for terraces around swimming pools, hot tubs and saunas, Ipe terraces are an excellent option. The advantages of this tropical wood are many and for those who only want to make this investment once, Ipe wood is one of the best options out there.
As a wood product subjected to exterior elements and almost constant exposure to water, Ipe (pronounced EE-pay) is one of the most rot-resistant woods. It is also resistant to mold and insect infestation. In tests conducted by the United States Naval Research Laboratory, Ipe wood that had been left in the ground for 15 years was still free of termites and received the highest possible rating. Even untreated Ipe can be expected to last more than 40 years. With a coating oil applied to the surface of the wood, the Ipe coating will last over 100 years. That is a great return on investment.
For decking in slippery areas, Ipe also rises above the competition. ASTM-D143 has been tested and Ipe wood exceeds the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act for the coefficient of static friction in a humid environment. This is an important consideration when thinking about which deck to use around pools and hot tubs. Children naturally have a tendency to want to run around swimming pools and, with Ipe decks, it is one more help to prevent accidents. Another advantage this exotic wood provides is that it does not splinter, another important advantage in pools and hot tubs, where most people go barefoot.
Although Ipe is predominantly found in South America, Ipe hardwood is also an environmentally responsible choice. Because Ipe can be grown relatively easily in managed forests, it is a renewable resource and encourages responsible forestry practices. This ease of use of managed forests means less impact on tropical forests. This exotic wood has many advantages over teak and mahogany and is available at a fraction of the cost.
These trees can grow up to 150 feet tall and can have a trunk diameter of 6 feet. Average height at harvest in a managed forest is 100 feet and a trunk diameter of 2 to 3 feet. This is an incredibly dense wood, which is what makes it such a durable option for decking. It is so dense; the wood actually sinks in the water.
Until recently, Ipe was impractical due to this density. Wood was very difficult to machine and quickly dull even the sharpest blades. Recent advances in technology have made the job much easier and carbide blades are now used to avoid the problem of easily dull blades. The fastener holes must be pre-drilled, as the wood is almost impervious to hammers and nails. However, it does it very well.
When it was necessary to replace the famous Atlantic City boardwalk, the wooden platform of Ipe was chosen. The Treasure Island resort in Las Vegas also chose Ipe as the wood of choice for its boardwalk. If you are planning an outdoor project, consider using Ipe for a deck that will last a lifetime.