June 2011

Have You Heard?

The hardwood decking and lumber market is always changing. There is higher demand from builders here in North America and across the world. It should come as no surprise to hear that hardwoods like Ipe are becoming more scare and therefore, more expensive. Factor in fluctuating currency values also play a larger role in hardwood pricing and it's easy to see why the cost of the most popular materials are rising. These factors, along with bad weather, have also contributed to price increases of North American hardwoods by hindering logging companies’ ability to procure timber.

What do these market forces mean to you?

For builders, using exotic species like Cumaru and Tigerwood is a solid alternative to Ipe. Both are extremely durable. Cumaru is practically a lighter colored version of Ipe.

For turners and furniture makers, there's no reason to start stockpiling 4/4 boards of Oak like they're cans of beans or gold bullion. There are so many different types of hardwoods. So, even if your first choice of lumber for that new chair is out of your price range, you can feel confident knowing Advantage Trim & Lumber Co., Inc. still has many other hardwood options available to you in stock, and at a great price.

Tigerwood Decking

Here are some additional details from the USDA's official Wood Handbook about the similarities between Ipe & Cumaru decking:

• Cumaru: 8x harder than Redwood, 3x harder than Teak (Janka 3540)
• Ipe is 8x harder than Redwood - 3x harder than Teak (Janka 3680)
• Cumaru: over 40% stronger than Red Oak (24,800 to 14,300 psi)
• Ipe: Also over 40% stronger than Red Oak (25,400 to 14,300 psi)
• Cumaru: Colors range from golden honey brown to reddish brown
• Ipe: A uniform dark brown color with some amber or olive hues

What do these numbers all mean?

A Cumaru deck can give you a robust, durable space capable of taking on the weather and daily use just as well as Ipe. Oh, and the price isn't too shabby either! Cumaru can cost you up to 25% less per lineal foot on the most popular dimensions (1x6, 5/4x4, & 5/4x6). Learn more about the differences between Cumaru, Ipe, Teak, and Composite Decking. Or, click the button to save right now on Cumaru decking.