Anyone see scratching problems with Ipe deck?

19 years ago

So just finishing up our agonizing "what decking material to use" decision. We thought one of the key pluses Ipe had going for it over TimberTech Earthwood is no scratching. Some TT users, including an installer I talked to today, report scratching issues. I was under the impression that Ipe didn't have scratching issues then a friend of my husbands with an Ipe deck said that scratches were a big problem for them. I'm wondering if the key is whether you seal/finish/oil the deck. He didn't know much about Ipe but happened to write in his email the following:

I'd probably go with a composite. The ironwood is really nice but it does tend to scratch somewhat and turn gray over time. Apparently applying something called Pentofin once a year keeps it looking nice but I've yet to do that.

So... has anyone else see a scratching issue with Ipe when they do stain or seal it? I'm not into the greying thing.

We were planning to oil it with the Bio-Wash Natural Deck Oil (we're not up to the level of effort your TWP recommendation would take, John :-)).

Thanks!

Britt

Featured Answer

david_diy

19 years ago

Britt,
What your friend calls "scratches" actually may be scratches in the finish on the SURFACE of the ipe. If the deck has a film-forming finish or a finish that was not properly applied, that may be what is getting scratches.

I just received a truckload of ipe for my deck and chose it over all of the other materials because of its durability and beauty. Nothing else even came close...

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (8)

alb1k
19 years ago
I have had a dog running all over ipe, tools on it, kid with toys, sand, etc. It has not scratched.
rlembke
19 years ago
What do you define a 'scratch' as?

All materials are going to scratch to some extent. All decks will have some scratches on them...you're using a material that will have things drug across it, dropped on it, run across it...it's a floor. What does your hardwood floor look like if you don't sweep it regularly? And do you have a carpet under the table? And that's inside!

I've seen all kinds of decks and for all of the reasons I've thought of, Ipe is a clear winner. There are many more reasons that Ipe is better than TT or any other composite.

If you don't want to SEE the scratches, find some composite of a muddy color and you won't see it as much. I guess it's all what your primary concerns are.
Related Professionals
Hot Springs Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Gulfport Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Orangeburg Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Danbury Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Pittsburgh Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Anchorage Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Evansville Home Builders · Boston Home Builders · Brainerd Home Builders · Show Low Home Builders · Mission Viejo Home Builders · Coeur d'Alene Home Builders · Fort Smith Home Additions · Effingham Home Additions · Cedar Rapids Home Additions
dssxxxx
19 years ago
I have 3 golden retrievers that run on my Ipe deck.

No scratches.
john_hyatt
19 years ago
OK Brit but rememberrrrrr..no uv protection = gray deck. J
dooer
19 years ago
Yes, you can scratch ipe, but it takes some effort. Like a dragging a 300 # iron legged table across it.
rlembke
19 years ago
Rereading what your husband's friend wrote in the email, it doesn't sound like he knows a great deal about Ipe and/or the protection thereof.

Take the word of the guys here who make their livings on their reputations as dependable, high quality deck builders....Ipe is the real deal and as good as it gets. I did and I couldn't be happier.

Rob
Junior Member of the George Guy/John Hyatt/PressurePros Church of Ipe
Cindy CS
3 years ago
My new ipe deck has light scratches from moving a piece of furniture that was missing a footpad. can i buff out the scratches somehow?