Ipe Lumber: 3 Reasons Why This Superior Wood Won’t Be Hot Underfoot

If you don’t want to worry about being barefoot on your deck, Ipe lumber is your best choice, not only because of its incredible strength, extreme durability, and natural beauty, but also because it doesn’t get hot underfoot. When compared to other decking materials, such as composite decking, which are notoriously heat absorbent, you will find that Ipe lumber is the better choice, especially if your deck will be exposed to direct sunlight at the peak hours of the day.

It is important to choose a decking material that will stay cool in the summer months, especially if you live in a warmer climate or if your deck is exposed to full sunlight at the hottest hours of the day.  It goes without saying that there’s nothing worse than stepping out onto your patio in mid-July only to find a scorching surface. But don’t worry, Ipe is the solution and here at Brazilian Lumber we have it in all dimensions and board lengths to satisfy your project’s needs.

First, it is important to understand that under the sun, the surface of your deck will heat up more due to the amount of solar or thermal energy absorbed versus the amount reflected. The darker the color of the surface, the more heat is absorbed and the hotter it gets. 

The second factor is the type of material. Wood surfaces, for example, draw heat into the panel, causing the surface to cool, while the board stays warmer longer as the sun goes away. Fortunately, Ipe lumber is the exception, as this wood always retains its cool factor across its entire surface. 

When choosing the material for a deck, you need to consider how hot the material you buy will be when exposed to the sun. You can burn your feet without shoes on a hot summer day. Having a decking that is uncomfortable for your feet can be quite annoying.  Nobody wants to walk on hot decking while using the pool. This is  especially true if you have to pick decking material for a dock, since you will likely come off the boat barefoot.  

There’s no reason to buy a deck that gets scorching hot in the summer. It’s a lot easier if you stick to a material that is heat-resistant and will allow you to go barefoot. For this reason, we have decided to share with you the most important facts that make  Ipe lumber the heat-absorbing wood king:

• Cool surface
• Durability
• Low maintenance 

1. Ipe Lumber Does Not Get Hot Underfoot

If you’re looking for the best wood decking that stays cool in the summer, there’s no better choice than Ipe lumber. This extraordinary wood naturally retains less heat than its plastic, metallic, and composite counterparts, so you can stay barefoot and cool, having nothing to worry about. Since Ipe lumber is less prone to cracking or splitting than most types of wood decking, you’ll also avoid painful splinters. This is something that definitely needs to be considered, especially if you have children and pets whose feet are more sensitive.

There is some research that claims that Ipe lumber is the best decking material in the world. It is a wood grown and harvested in Central and South America. It has a beautiful appearance and excellent quality. For the summer, it is the best choice if you are looking for a touch of wood in your spaces, without putting your feet in danger of burning.

2. Ipe Lumber Does Not Get Hot Under Feet + Is Durable

In some press articles, Ipe lumber is referred to as “tough as nails” because it is one of the densest types of wood in the world. Environmentally friendly and sustainable, the surface of this rough wood is naturally resistant to the elements, mold, mildew, and insect damage. It also expands and contracts less than other materials. These advantages will make it last at least 50 years. 

3. Ipe Lumber Is A Low Maintenance Material + Durable + Does Not Get Hot Under Feet

The exceptional density of this hardwood creates a surface that is very easy to care for. All you need to do is clean it and regularly apply a hardwood oil base. To achieve this, here are three simple recommendations:

• Sweep it daily to remove dirt, pollen, and leaves 
• Wash it and let it dry well for at least 24 hours
• Then oil it with proper products like the ones we sell here at Brazilian Lumber

There are other pretty good options if you want to keep the touch of wood in your outdoor areas: 

• Cedar
• Redwood

However, Ipe lumber is the best alternative if you are looking for a material that will not get hot under your feet, will last more than 50 years, has high quality as well as a superior beauty.