If you think we’ve exhausted all the deficiencies of composite decking compared to Ipe decking, think again (see Parts 1, 2 & 3). Despite conventional wisdom to the contrary, composite decking is not environmentally friendly; and that issue makes the fact that it will not … [Read more...]
Why Ipe Decking Is Better Than Composite Decking, Part 3
You may think you know how composite decking compares to Ipe; after all, the latest is always the greatest, right? Well, not always. While composite decking might seem like a good choice for the short term, especially for small residential decks, over time it will reveal its … [Read more...]
Why Ipe Decking Is Better Than Composite Decking, Part 2
While the main argument for composite decking products is their environmental friendliness, that misconception is really almost laughable when you consider that composite decking is neither renewable nor biodegradable (see Part 1). But while green building is certainly a … [Read more...]
Why Ipe Decking Is Better Than Composite Decking, Part 1
The upsides and downsides of any given building material are intensified when used in commercial applications. Not only are commercial projects often larger, but they endure a lot more use than the typical residential application. Such is certainly the case when you consider … [Read more...]
Lumber Color Demystified: Putting Color Matching in Perspective, Part 1
When you understand how color change varies from species to species as well as over time, you begin to realize that lumber color can be a pretty tricky subject. Even within a species and with freshly milled boards, though, there’s plenty of variety when it comes to color. As an … [Read more...]
Challenges & Rewards of Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring, Part 3
In this three-part article series, we’re taking an in-depth look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of wide plank hardwood flooring (see Parts 1 & 2). This final article will focus specifically on how milling and installation practices can be tailored to combat the … [Read more...]
Teak Wood Building Restoration Project
We’ve been pretty excited about the growing availability of Teak that’s become available for uses outside the boat-building industry in recent years. But never did we expect to be able to put it to use in such an amazing historic restoration as the Salk Institute in San Diego. … [Read more...]
What Is Teak? Learn about Burmese Teak
What Is Teak Wood? The Tectona grandis tree, which is indigenous to south and southeast Asia, is the source of Teak wood, a dense, closely-grained species of hardwood. Teak has a smooth grain and texture, and its natural color is golden. It has abundant natural oils, making it … [Read more...]
How Teak Supply & Demand Impacts Price
If you’ve tried using Teak for a project designed with another lumber species in view, you’ve found this out the hard way: you simply can’t assume that what’s a typical length or width for other lumber species will be reasonable to acquire in Teak. The reason for the limited … [Read more...]
Do You Really Need FEQ Grade A Teak Wood?
We’re guessing you already heard the amazing news that there’s Teak available for builders outside the boat building industry, here in the US, ready and waiting for you to purchase. (If not, go back and read this post, so you’re up to speed.) While most of the Teak boards we … [Read more...]
Save Money by Using Leftover Teak Lumber
While the Teak industry has traditionally revolved around the needs of boat builders, the current market has allowed for those in other industries to have access to premium Teak. With the high degree of fluctuation within the Myanmar government, Teak availability has been … [Read more...]
Teak Plantation Lumber vs Authentic Burmese Teak
We’re not at all opposed to plantation-grown lumber in general; however, when it comes to Teak, we’re certainly partial to native growth Burmese Teak. The exceptional coloration and consistent vertical grain make authentic Burmese Teak far superior to Plantation Teak. While we’ve … [Read more...]
How to Deal with Teak Lumber Color Changes
One of the most attractive aspects of Teak is, undoubtedly, its color. One of the most frustrating aspects of Teak is, again, its color. The rich honey-brown hue with straight, even grain, is what many people love about Teak, but the color change that has to occur before this … [Read more...]
Challenges & Rewards of Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring, Part 2
Wide plank hardwood flooring has been growing in popularity in recent years (see Part 1). Thanks to its natural beauty and the enlarging effect it gives to interior spaces, it’s no wonder homeowners and designers alike are gravitating to this versatile flooring choice. There are … [Read more...]
Challenges & Rewards of Wide Plank Hardwood Flooring, Part 1
When it comes to flooring materials, hardwood planks are virtually always a popular choice. It’s not difficult to understand why. Hardwood floors are known for being durable and long-lasting. They’re also an easy to clean option when compared to wall-to-wall carpeting. Hardwood … [Read more...]
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