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South American Ipe Rolls into Lumberyards as the New Year Rolls In

Last updated on January 2, 2014 by Sozo Staff Leave a Comment

pile of ipe logs
Ipe logs

As the New Year rolls in, so does the supply of Ipe lumber. Because many South American countries have very strict regulations and rules regarding the export of Ipe, many lumber suppliers buy their entire supply early in the year and fill their yard up rather quickly.

As with any wood product, supply and demand, as well as inventory, will control the pricing. If you are planning to order Ipe in October or November, supply will be lower, and in effect, cost will likely be higher. However, if you are buying in the spring, supply will likely be higher, and hopefully, cost will be more stable.

Because Ipe is the ONLY wood that is guaranteed to last the length of your home (40+ years), it is the top choice for builders of decks, porches, siding, or even interior flooring projects. It is remarkably hard and dense, with a deep reddish-brown color. Grade A Ipe would be considered to be free of defects on at least 3 of the 4 sides of the plank. This means it will be clear, consistent, and free of knots or other markings that may affect the appearance.

ipe decking
Ipe deck

Still not convinced that Ipe is the top choice for your deck? Because Ipe is highly durable, it can comfortably be installed in a high traffic area, such as a deck, without fear of damage over the years of use and abuse. Ipe also absorbs very little, making it highly resistant to absorbing water; this, in turn, makes it resistant to shrinkage or expansion. Ipe’s high density also makes it resistant to insect damage, and the Class A fire rating makes it as fire proof as a sheet of concrete.

J. Gibson McIlvain Company imports their Ipe from mills in South American rainforests. Because of this, exotic lumber buyer representatives take the time to visit and inspect every single mill from which J. Gibson McIlvain imports. By visiting the mills, the representative can ensure that wood is being harvested in a sustainable manner that will allow the lumber industry to thrive for many years. If possible, J. Gibson McIlvain Company buys FSC Ipe, and if not possible, the representative will pay even more attention to harvesting practices.

Inspecting Ipe
Inspecting Ipe

Because of the relationship with mills in South American rainforests, J. Gibson McIlvain can start rolling in their large, extensive supply of Ipe early in the year to ensure that customers have a greater availability of consistently colored and straight grained Ipe that will, in turn, result in the most beautiful, long lasting deck possible. J. Gibson McIlvain Company also carries a full line of Ipe clips, screws, bits, sealer, and oil for your decking project.

J. Gibson McIlvain Company works closely with their South American mills to ensure that only Grade A Ipe will be shipped to their lumber yard. Customers can rest assured that they will get only the highest quality product that can be shipped nationwide.

J. Gibson McIlvain Company

Since 1798, when Hugh McIlvain established a lumber business near Philadelphia, the McIlvain family has been immersed in the premium import and domestic lumber industry. With its headquarters located just outside of Baltimore, the J. Gibson McIlvain Company (www.mcilvain.com) is one of the largest U.S. importers of exotic woods.

As an active supporter of sustainable lumber practices, the J. Gibson McIlvain Company has provided fine lumber for notable projects throughout the world, including the White House, Capitol building, Supreme Court, and the Smithsonian museums.

From the McIlvain blog:

  • Ipe decking facing serious supply challenges
  • Lumber grades won’t tell you how your boards will actually look
  • How much will my lumber order cost?

Filed Under: Construction

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