Ipe Checking Explained: Causes, Prevention, and What Every Deck Owner Should Know
Ipe is one of the most popular and tough hardwoods for outdoor decks. Because of its high density, resistance to insects and durability, it is the material of choice for homeowners, architects and contractors. Many people begin to see tiny cracks on the surface of their deck over time, and wonder if something is wrong. This is a natural phenomenon referred to as the ipe checking.
The knowledge of what it means to check ipe is an important tool for homeowners to identify when wood movement is normal and when it may indicate structural damage. We’ll be explaining why checking happens, how to minimize it and what to expect from an ipe deck over time.
What is Ipe Checking ?
Ipe checking is the small surface cracking that occurs when wood dries or dumps. As a very tight hardwood, ipe also naturally expands and contracts with the seasons and weather changes due to water absorption and release.
The surface checks are usually cosmetic in nature and have little to no effect on the overall strength and durability of the deck. These are a natural feature of natural hardwood and are typically found in exterior wood products that face exposure to sunlight and fluctuations in humidity.
How, and why, does “ipe checking” occur?
There are a number of factors that contribute to checking in ipe, such as:
Natural Moisture Movement
Wood is an active material, which still reacts to the environment after being milled. In hot weather, moisture is lost from the wood and in rainy or humid weather, the wood takes on moisture. This is an ongoing process that can lead to surface checking.
Sun Exposure
The drying process is enhanced by direct sunlight, particularly in the summer. Exposed decking boards will be susceptible to small surface checks when exposed to UV.
Climate Changes
The checking is often more pronounced in regions where the temperature and humidity are greater as compared to areas where the climate remains more or less constant.
Installation Practices
Use of proper spacing, ventilation and fastening techniques reduce stress on the boards and allow them to move with the changing environment.
Is Ipe Checking an Issue?
In most cases, ipe checking is perfectly normal and not to be confused as a structural failure. Surface checks vary from deeper cracks or splits that could occur because of improper installation or physical damage.
Most minor checks are only a bit deep and do not affect the strength or safety of the deck, or greatly affect the service life. Many hardwood professionals would say checking was a natural characteristic and don’t report it as a defect.
How to Reduce Ipe Checking
While it is not always possible to eliminate checking completely, there are several best practices that can lessen the amount of checking that occurs.
Apply a good quality wood oil.
Application of a hardwood oil with UV protection helps to reduce moisture loss and maintain the wood’s natural color. Weathering due to extended sun exposure can also be minimised through regular maintenance.
Maintain Proper Drainage
Be sure to provide good drainage and ventilation under the deck to prevent standing water from building up on the deck.
Install Boards Correctly
If manufacturers are followed in spaces and fastenings, wood can expand and contract to a certain extent without stressing the wood.
Scrub and sanitize Deck Regularly
Taking away dirt, leaves and debris will maintain the decking in great condition and prevent trapped water.
Ipe is the best alternative to Naturally Durable Hardwood.
Popular for their durability, many homeowners are also interested in the local hardwoods that offer good outdoor performance.
Black Locust Lumber provides naturally durable hardwood products that are sustainably harvested and made ideal for decking, boardwalks, siding, fencing and more for exterior use. It is not treated with chemicals and rot and insect resistant in natural conditions, which makes it another option that is attractive for projects that stress sustainability and long-term value.
The selection of the appropriate hardwood is based on the design requirements, maintenance preferences and design goals.
Let’s find out how long Ipe decking lasts!
When properly installed and maintained, an ipe deck can last for many years. The surface checking is just one of the natural hardwood aging features and should be considered with other features like color variation, grain texture, weathering, etc.
Some homeowners value the natural look that comes with time and others do oiling on a regular basis to keep the original rich brown tone.
Knowing these natural features enables a realistic expectation and confidence in your investment.
Quality Materials Matter
Whichever hardwood species is chosen, it is important to get the materials from an experienced supplier. Good milling, drying and grading are all of service in terms of good long-term performance.
Black Locust Lumber offers top quality hardwoods for use in challenging outdoor situations. From researching ipe wood to comparing other hardwoods, one of the best ways to enhance durability and appearance is to choose quality materials.
Final Thoughts
Ipe checking is a natural phenomenon that takes place when the dense hardwood is subjected to the changing outdoor conditions. In most situations these are cosmetic, and won’t weaken or shorten the life of your deck. With knowledge of its function, the proper installation and maintenance procedures, homeowners can have beautiful hardwood decking for many years.
For those seeking premium wood products that combine performance and beauty in natural durability, or for a new outdoor project, Black Locust Lumber has the ideal wood products.
CTA: Ready to create an outdoor area that will stand the test of time? Visit Black Locust Lumber for high quality hardwood lumber, and discover the perfect choice for your next decking, fencing or exterior project!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ipe checking?
The development of small cracks on the surface of the wood due to the natural expansion and contraction of wood caused by moisture fluctuation is called Ipe checking. Typically cosmetic and not compromising the structural integrity of the deck.
Is ipe checking normal?
Yes. Minor surface checking is a natural occurrence in hardwood decking when exposed to outdoor weather elements and is expected.
Can ipe checking be prevented?
It can’t be prevented all of the time, but having a product installed correctly, using good ventilation, cleaning on a regular basis and applying a high-quality hardwood oil will help minimize the appearance of it.