Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Ipe, Teak, or Mahogany
Posted by j taylor on 01/14/10 - 2:35 PM
#1
What do you guys think about a restoration with Ipe instead of Teak or Mahogany? The reason I ask is that I can the Ipe for free. What are you thoughts?
Edited by Tom W Clark on 01/15/10 - 9:03 AM
Posted by Bake on 01/14/10 - 2:44 PM
#2
free is good. I had to google Ipea but it says it is as resistant to rot and such, as teak wood is.
Posted by NauticalLumber on 01/14/10 - 3:38 PM
#3
...Ipe has the same insect & rot resistence as concrete. Very dence, very heavy, all of your holes have to be pre drilled, hard on your tools, Doesn't glue very easy.......lets see, what else.....twice as heavy as mahogany or teak.
Does not take a finish very well. mostly used for decks (residential) thats why most people leave it unfinished. It does turn a nice silver color with age.
...sitck with teak or mahogany. some times free isn't the best choice.
Hope this helps,
Mike
Edited by NauticalLumber on 01/15/10 - 5:28 AM
Posted by captaincurt on 01/14/10 - 4:07 PM
#4
Mike,I agree with you,About 10 years ago Ipe came into fashion when I was building houses on Fl.Gulf Coast and several people requested Ipe decks . We built 2 and never went back. Challenging in all the wrong ways.
Posted by Eri on 01/15/10 - 11:03 AM
#5
I had a few friends use IPE on decks as well. Urethane finish did not hold well. Not sure if you can oil it like teak to keep it looking new.
Posted by captaincurt on 01/15/10 - 1:53 PM
#6
When we used it my supplier provided a can of brushable waxy like sealer for end grain . I havent seen this sealer used since
Posted by John Fyke on 01/15/10 - 3:16 PM
#7
I agree with Mike. Ipe is very sturdy, heavy and dense. It is hard to finish. Funny thing is being all that it actually floats. It does turn gray or silver as Mike mentioned and will need periodic sanding. Stick with mahogany.