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Ipe

Leisel_Spafford's picture

Ipe (post #169394)

Leisel_Spafford on Wed, 11/30/2011 - 13:51
in

I have an Ipe porch that is in desperate need of sealing/refinishing ... I have no idea what the best products are, so I could really use some advice from someone who has experience/knowledge in this area.

What is a good product to use... that will both provide the best protection, as well as the best longevity?

Really appreciate any help I can get...Thank you!

-A +A
hammer1's picture

As you may know, ipe is (post #169394, reply #1 of 2)

by hammer1 in reply to Leisel_Spafford [original] on Thu, 12/01/2011 - 07:49

As you may know, ipe is choosen due to it's resistance to weather and rot. The board walks in Atlantic city are made from it. It requires no finish which is one of the attractive things about it. In fact, it's very difficult to finish because it won't let anything penetrate. Most any finish will just sit on top and be easily abraded or washed away. Typically, it's left unfinished and allowed to weather. If you choose to use a finish, you'll be looking at frequent reapplication, maybe yearly with some products or less.

This supplier specializes in products for decks and concrete. There are some good tips for maintaining your deck. They carry a number of products, some specifically made for tropical hardwoods.

http://www.opwdecks.com/

 

Beat it to fit / Paint it to match

SteveSchoene's picture

I definately recommend just (post #169394, reply #2 of 2)

by SteveSchoene in reply to Leisel_Spafford [original] on Thu, 12/01/2011 - 08:59

I definately recommend just letting it weather to grey.  The joy of ipe is that turning grey is not a precurser to wood rot, splinters, or other bad things.  You may want to do a light powerwashing from time to time to keep it clean looking.

If you must try to prevent it from greying a good choice is Messmers UV.  Still, you will to regularly refresh the finish, and that will occassionally require stripping.  Plan on losing a weekend or two every year.

 

 

 

 

 

Test your finish on scrap, FIRST, or risk having to scrap your finish.