Bechtle Architects

As an exotic wood, ipe has incredible durability and weather resistance that make it popular for decking projects. You can also use it for fencing, gazebos, or pergolas to add an elegant natural touch to your home’s exterior. While it may be more expensive than other types of lumber, you can recoup the initial cost with increased property value and reduced maintenance. It is an environmentally sustainable material that doesn’t require chemical treatments, making it a good choice for Eco-friendly households and businesses. Ipe is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure that it comes from forestry operations that follow sustainable harvesting practices.

Ipe is a type of Brazilian walnut that is a very hard and dense tropical hardwood. It is an excellent choice for decking and other outdoor home improvement projects because it resists rot, insect attack, and mold. In addition, it has a Class A fire rating and won’t float in water. It is one of the toughest materials that can be used for building, and it’s even stronger than concrete or steel.

When properly sealed, ipe can last for decades without any signs of wear and tear. In fact, it can outlast even pressure treated pine or cedar. It has a rich color that can be stained or left to age naturally into a silvery gray finish. Regardless of how you choose to maintain your ipe deck, it is important to reseal the wood every few years to protect it from the elements.

Many people ask whether or not ipe is sustainable because of the way it is harvested. Because the ipe trees grow in low densities and are difficult to locate, it is more convenient to clear surrounding areas in order to reach them. This leads to deforestation, which is a world-wide issue that needs to be addressed.

The best way to reduce the impact that ipe has on the environment is to use reclaimed ipe instead of new. Reclaimed ipe has been cut from old, mature trees and can be recycled into the same products as new ipe. This reduces the amount of new ipe that must be harvested from the rainforest, which makes it a more environmentally friendly option.

Another great way to support the sustainability of ipe is to buy it from a company that sells only FSC certified ipe. The FSC provides third-party certification to verify that the wood is sourced from forests that practice sustainable harvesting practices. The FSC is a nonprofit organization that works for environmental conservation, social welfare, and economic well-being in local communities around the world. It also helps to train and educate workers in the forest industry to promote responsible business practices. The FSC certification is a sign that the company is doing their part to help the environment and the local economy. It’s important to support green initiatives in any industry, so be sure to check out the options available in your area when choosing a supplier for your ipe project.

When considering what kind of deck you want to build, a lot of people decide on wood for the look and feel it provides. While softwood makes up 80% of all decking materials, hardwood is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners looking to invest in something that will last a long time. Hardwood also has a natural resistance to fungi and other insects that can damage composites or pressure-treated pine.

However, not all kinds of hardwood are the same and there are pros and cons to each type. Hardwoods are typically more expensive than softwoods and can require a little more work during installation, but they can last a much longer time than other types of decking material and may even stand up to more severe weather conditions such as heavy snow or high winds.

While the durability of a hardwood deck is important, it’s also good to consider how the wood was harvested and sourced before making any final decisions. Many tropical hardwoods are sourced from regions where deforestation is a major issue. This is why it’s important to choose a company that offers FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PFEC (Pacific Forestry Ecological Certification) chain of custody certifications to ensure that the timber is sourced responsibly. This can help to reduce the environmental impact of the harvesting process and encourage reforestation and other forms of land use that will benefit the local communities.

Some of the most common hardwoods for decking include Ipe, Cumaru and Massaranduba. Ipe is one of the most durable and naturally resilient woods available, offering a Class A fire rating and a Janka hardness score that’s higher than redwood or cedar. It also resists insect infestation, rot and mildew. While the cost of Ipe is high, it will likely last 10 to 15 years or more in most climates, requiring only periodic staining and refinishing.

Cumaru is another durable option that is comparable to Ipe in terms of hardness and strength, while having a slightly different appearance with more of a reddish hue. It can be refinished in the same way as Ipe, with a UV-blocking penetrating oil that’s specifically formulated for hardwoods.

Batu is a beautiful option that closely resembles mahogany and can be used in the same ways as Ipe or Cumaru. It is also resistant to rot, termite and mildew and can be refinished with a UV-blocking oil.

While kiln-dried hardwoods are far more stable than pressure-treated lumber, they do expand and contract when exposed to hot or cold weather, so it’s important to leave a bit of space between boards. It’s also a good idea to apply a waterproof sealant to the decking, which can be found in most home improvement stores. It’s best to avoid stains with these types of wood as they tend to soak in and can lead to discoloration, although if you do choose to stain, make sure the product is formulated for hardwoods. Lastly, it’s a good idea to wear a dust mask during installation as the sawdust from these hardwoods can irritate your nose and throat.

Plastic decking has been around for a while and is an excellent option for homeowners looking to save on maintenance costs. It’s made from a mix of recycled and new materials, most notably polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and it can be molded into different shapes to create the look and feel of wood or other types of natural deck lumber. It’s waterproof and resists rot, mold, and mildew without the need for sealants or stains. It also has good short-term fade resistance and can be manufactured in a wide range of colors. Some manufacturers, such as Zuri, use cellular PVC and photorealistic print to make their boards look more realistic, but the material tends to be a little more expensive than other options.

Compared to traditional wood decking, a plastic deck requires less maintenance and can last up to 15 times longer. It is also more resistant to insects, fungus, and mold growth, and it can be molded into different shapes for a custom design. Most manufacturers offer a limited lifetime warranty for their plastic decking, although the duration of that warranty varies by product line.

The most popular plastic decking is made from either PVC or composite. Both types of materials are manufactured from recycled products, so they can help you reduce your environmental footprint. PVC plastic has a solid core and can be manufactured in various styles to resemble natural wood, while composite features a synthetic core that is encased in an organic or recycled cap for better weather resistance.

Aside from a few differences in appearance, both types of plastic decking are similar. They’re both low-maintenance and can add value to your home. Composite and capped PVC also have a higher strength to weight ratio than wood, making them more durable for heavy foot traffic and other uses.

While both plastic and composite can be crafted with a variety of color and grain patterns, most brands of composite and capped PVC have a more modern appearance than wood. Some manufacturers, such as Trex, have even been able to mimic the appearance of exotic woods for a more luxurious finish.

Both composite and capped PVC have a lower carbon footprint than natural wood, reducing the number of trees that need to be cut down to produce them. Plastic is recyclable, and it also has a lower risk of contaminating waterways and landfills, unlike wood.

Whether you choose a plastic or capped composite deck, it’s important to install them according to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure a long lifespan and optimal performance. Both types are a bit heavier than natural wood, so you’ll need to plan for more structural support and make sure the joists can handle their extra weight. In addition, it’s crucial to leave enough room between boards for proper airflow and water drainage. Otherwise, moisture and debris may cause the boards to swell or warp, affecting their function and look. Fortunately, these issues are relatively easy to address.

A composite deck is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about wood rot, insect infestations or water damage. These manufactured materials are made from a mix of natural wood fibers and plastic, and they can look very convincing. Some brands are able to offer the warmth and beauty of real wood, while others have a more modern, innovative look. The best composite decking brands combine a range of aesthetic options with durability and longevity, so homeowners can find the right option for their needs.

The main advantage of composite decking is that it can withstand the elements much better than traditional treated lumber. It is also less likely to splinter or warp over time and requires far less maintenance than natural wood. The manufacturers of these materials combine wood fibers and plastics to create a material that is stronger and more resilient than wood alone. The ratio of these materials varies from brand to brand, but most use polypropylene or polyethylene plastics that work well with wood fibers. Some manufacturers heat the mixture and add preservatives to produce boards that can be used for outdoor decks.

Most composite decking is available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose one that matches your home. Some are grooved so they can be installed using hidden fasteners instead of being face-nailed or screwed like traditional wood decking. Others have smooth edges and can be face-nailed or screwed to the joists. Most boards are a half-inch thick and can be nailed or screwed together to create a solid surface, while others have tongues and grooves so they can be assembled into a series of rows.

Trex is the leading composite decking brand, and its products are a happy medium between wood and other alternative materials. They feature a wide selection of colors and textures that are inspired by real wood, and they are resistant to weathering, warping, splintering and fading. Trex’s boards are durable enough to stand up to even the heaviest of foot traffic, and they are backed by a 25-year warranty.

Fiberon is a popular composite decking brand that offers a wide range of color and style choices. Its products are also resistant to warping, splintering, extreme temperature changes and mold growth. Its decking is made with a blend of recycled plastic and wood fiber, and it features a wood grain pattern that closely resembles the appearance of natural wood. The company’s manufacturing process prevents more than 70,000 tons of waste from entering landfills annually.

MoistureShield is another great choice for those who prioritize moisture resistance. Its four collections have their own unique textures and colorways, but they all provide the same waterproof and stain-resistant properties. The brand’s boards are also backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

There are many benefits to choosing composite decking over wood, but it’s important to consider the initial cost, maintenance requirements and aesthetic preferences before making a final decision. The best composite decking brands will help you balance these factors and find the best solution for your needs.

WPC (wood-plastic composite) decking is a relatively new outdoor flooring material. It is made by combining recycled wood fibres and thermoplastic materials such as polypropylene, polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride, along with natural plant fibers, such as straw, rice husks or waste wood chips. This mix is then combined with plastic coupling agents, stabilizers or dyes to improve its properties for a particular application. The result is a product that is not only resistant to rot from borers and termites but also to moisture, UV light, mildew and fungus.

It has a lower carbon footprint than traditional pressure treated timber as it is produced from recycled materials and does not require any harmful chemicals in its production. Its durability means that it lasts longer than its timber substitute, reducing overall replacement and maintenance costs. It is also splinter-free and therefore ideal for children and bare feet, compared to traditional timber which may splinter.

The initial cost of wpc decking is higher than that of wood but its long-term savings on maintenance costs and the increased lifespan over wood make it a cost effective option in the longer run. It is water-resistant and requires very little maintenance, requiring just periodic cleaning to keep it looking like new. It is also non-slip and hygienic and will not harbor mold, mildew or bacteria.

Unlike other types of outdoor flat flooring, wpc decking is extremely durable and resists fading, staining, scratching and marking, making it an excellent choice for busy areas where foot traffic is high. It is also easy to clean, with simple soap and water, and does not need staining or painting. It is important to follow the manufacturers’ recommendations when it comes to cleaning to ensure that you do not invalidate any warranty.

To prevent damage to wpc decking, it is important to properly prepare the area before installation. This includes ensuring that adequate drainage is in place and that the frame bearers are spaced correctly to allow for any minor expansion of the material. It is also wise to use a waterproofing sealant to protect the surface from moisture and other damage.

WPC decking is a versatile, low-maintenance material that mimics the appearance of various wood species. It is water-resistant, hygienic and easy to clean, making it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces. It is also available in a variety of colours, allowing you to create a customized look for your property. The material is eco-friendly and looks stylish, making it a great option for any space. In addition, wpc is resistant to fire and does not splinter, so it is safe for families and pets. It is also ideal for outdoor use and can be used as a cladding for swimming pools, hot tubs or changing rooms. WPC is also a good choice for health clubs, gyms and other public buildings, as it adds an attractive look to these environments without compromising on durability or strength. It is also more resistant to moisture than wooden alternatives, reducing the risk of rotting in moist conditions.

Whether you’re building a new deck or renovating your existing one, the materials you choose can make a difference. Azek decking is a premium material that offers a number of benefits for your custom deck.

Azek decking is made of a polymer blend and has an attractive natural wood grain appearance. It is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions and requires minimal upkeep. It doesn’t require staining, sealing, or sanding, so it saves time and money on maintenance. It also resists fading and scratching. Azek decking is available in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to suit any style.

While azek decking is more expensive than traditional wood or some composite options, it has a lower total cost of ownership. It requires less maintenance and can last up to 25 years without the need for repairs or replacement. Additionally, azek decking doesn’t require the use of harmful chemicals, so it is safer for the environment than other alternatives.

If you’re considering using azek decking in your backyard, here are some tips for installing and maintaining this beautiful material. First, prepare the foundation and framing of your deck according to local building codes and regulations. Then, install the joists that will support the deck boards and ensure structural integrity. Once the joists are in place, attach the azek decking. You can fasten the boards either by face screwing or with hidden fasteners, which provide a cleaner, more finished look.

Azek is an eco-friendly option because it contains no wood, reducing the need for lumber and promoting sustainability. It’s also resistant to mildew and mold, extending the lifespan of your deck and requiring minimal upkeep. Azek decking also holds its color well, allowing you to choose a hue that best complements your home’s exterior.

Both Azek and Trex are a type of cellular pvc, but they differ in several ways. While both are considered a composite, Trex uses a combination of wood (recycled from sawdust and pressed into boards) and recycled plastics to create their products, while Azek is made of 100% PVC. As a result, Azek has a more natural wood appearance and doesn’t need to be stained or sealed like Trex does.

Proper maintenance and regular inspections can extend the life of your azek deck. Clean your deck regularly to remove dirt, dust, and other debris that can build up over time. Use a soft-bristled brush or a mild detergent mixed with water to scrub the surface, then rinse it thoroughly with water. Avoid using metal or abrasive brushes, as these can damage the surface of your decking. In the winter, remove snow and ice using a plastic shovel or broom with soft bristles. If you must use a de-icing product, opt for calcium magnesium acetate instead of rock salt or other harsh chemicals that can damage your decking. Also, schedule a professional inspection of your deck every few years to identify potential problems and repair them promptly.

A louvered pergola is a stunning addition to any outdoor living space. Its adjustable angle enables you to enjoy the sun’s rays or the stars on clear days and nights. Whether you’re looking to add some shade and weather protection to your backyard deck or transform a restaurant’s alfresco dining area, this modern twist on traditional pergolas offers versatility that other types of structures can’t match.

One of the biggest benefits of a louvered pergola is that it can adapt to shifting weather conditions from hour to hour and season to season. You can easily change the settings of your motorized pergola with the press of a button, opening the slats for airflow and sunlight or closing them to block out rain and reduce solar heat gain. With this ability to adjust the amount of light, shade, and airflow in your patio, you can create the perfect outdoor environment for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying time with friends and family.

Unlike the beams, posts, and rafters of traditional pergolas, which are typically made from pressure-treated lumber, the slats of a louvered pergola are often designed with weather-resistant composite materials. This makes them durable, long-lasting, and attractive to look at. In addition to their superior durability, these materials are also environmentally friendly and require minimal maintenance to retain their beauty.

The longevity of a louvered pergola is also influenced by its technology, which includes mechanisms for opening and closing the slats and any integrated automation or control systems. In order to ensure that your pergola’s slats are functioning properly, you should use them regularly and hire a qualified professional to perform a yearly inspection and cleaning.

Another benefit of a louvered pergola is its ability to blend into diverse landscapes. Its unique design style and adjustable angle make it a perfect fit for any home, regardless of the type or color of its exterior. In addition, the open and airy feel of a pergola can enhance any backyard pool area, giving it an even more inviting look. It can even transform a standard deck into an intimate backyard retreat, ideal for hosting dinner parties and other special occasions.

Aside from its aesthetic appeal, a louvered pergola can enhance your home’s value and increase its usability. By adding a louvered roof to your patio, you can protect your outdoor furniture and other expensive investments from damage by UV rays. It can also help reduce the amount of energy your home needs to keep cool in summer and warm in winter, making it a valuable investment for homeowners.

Adding a louvered pergola to your outdoor living space is a great way to boost the resale value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers. However, it is important to choose a pergola that is a good fit for your space and budget. While there are many different types of pergolas available, you should consider the architectural style and design elements that best suit your space.

Sea deck is a dense, rugged, closed-cell foam padding that gets glued to a boat’s fiberglass deck. It is offered by many new boat builders, and it can also be installed in the aftermarket on older boats. It is offered in a couple of thicknesses, many colors and patterns, and it can be cut to fit just about any shape. It is a very comfortable surface to stand and walk on, and it looks great as well.

This product is a safe and comfortable alternative to carpeting, molded-in non-skid, paint-on textures and other marine traction products. It is UV protected, dries quickly, and is easy to clean. It can be professionally templated and router-cut on a new boat, or you can purchase pre-cut sheets that can easily be self-installed.

In addition to being comfortable and beautiful, SeaDek is durable, shock absorbent and waterproof. It can be used on powerboats, sailboats, trawlers, yachts, ski boats, fishing vessels, deck and pontoon boats, and airboats. It will provide years of comfortable service and can be custom-designed to match any color scheme. It can also be designed to cover existing molded-in non-skid and aggregate type anti-skids, but you will want to ensure that the gelcoat underneath is in good condition and not cracked or pitted.

SeaDek is made in the USA from a closed-cell EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) foam that has been specifically formulated for marine applications. It is backed with a marine grade, acrylic based, high-bond pressure sensitive adhesive. The installation process is very simple and can be completed in a few hours.

It is available in a wide range of colors and construction patterns, including caribbean blue, bimini blue, bahama blue, midnight black, green apple, olive green, seafoam green, hatteras white, and storm gray. It is also available in several different textures, including diamond pattern and textured micro-dots for enhanced non-skid characteristics. It is easy to maintain and will not stain. It is easily cleaned using mild dish soap and water, or can be scrubbed with a brush and degreaser.

After three years of being decked in SeaDek on my 22’ Glacier Bay, I can say that this product is a real winner. The thickness of the foam provides comfort for standing and walking, and it feels much better underfoot than the diamond-patterned nonskid that came on my boat. It also makes the boat quieter when we fish, as dropping a lure or tugging on a tackle box will not make a loud noise that can scare away the fish.

SeaDek is an affordable luxury that will enhance the look of any boat, whether it is a brand new custom boat or a vintage vessel that is getting a major upgrade. It will protect hard boat surfaces against scratches, chips and dents, and it is quieter than the old flooring when we are fishing. SeaDek is also comfortable to stand on in the sun, and it does not heat up as quickly as other nonskid surfaces.

If you want to make the most of your garden, a deck is an essential addition. It’s the perfect place to relax with a drink or host friends for dinner, and it will look amazing with some carefully chosen plants and furniture. Whether you’re looking to transform your whole garden or just a small patch, there are many options when it comes to decking. However, what you choose will be down to personal preference and budget.

If you’re thinking of replacing your existing wooden decking, it could be worth considering composite, which is a mix of wood and plastic. It is designed to last far longer than traditional timber decking and requires much less maintenance. It is also environmentally friendly, as it uses recycled wood and plastic instead of raw materials.

In the UK, there are several companies that produce composite decking. Dino Decking, based out of Manchester, is one such company. It offers composite decking for residential and commercial use, as well as screens, railings, chairs and more. It’s a family-run business and primarily sells online to end consumers, although it is hoping to open up its doors to the wholesale trade in the future.

How Much Does Dino Decking Cost?

The price of composite decking can vary quite wildly depending on the type, colour and finish you choose. It is generally cheaper than natural wood, though, and can be a good alternative to real wooden decking for those on a tight budget. Unlike traditional wood, it doesn’t need to be stained and treated regularly.

Choosing the right type of composite decking is all about personal choice, and you should consider what kind of style you’re after. Some people prefer a simple, traditional design, while others might want something a little more contemporary. It’s also important to take into account the weather where you live and how much usage your deck is likely to get, as this will influence how long it lasts.

How long the warranty lasts is also an important consideration when it comes to choosing a composite decking product. Most manufacturers offer a 25-year warranty, but some go even further with 50-year warranties. You should also check the details of the warranty carefully to make sure you’re happy with what is and isn’t covered.

Assuming you’re not planning on building a deck yourself, it’s always advisable to have the work done by a qualified and insured professional. It’s best to find a tradesperson that specialises in this kind of work and has a good reputation in the local area. You can ask friends and neighbours for recommendations or ask around for a quote. Be wary of anyone who wants to charge a call-out fee or isn’t able to give a free quote.

A sundeck is a raised area, as on a roof, terrace or ship’s deck, that is exposed to the sun. It is popular for relaxing in warm weather, as well as for enjoying meals, and often serves as a gathering place for friends and family.

There’s something about the sun shining on a body of water that just makes people want to stretch out on a sundeck and enjoy the moment. It’s no wonder that this is such a common feature on boats of all shapes and sizes, from small rowboats to megayachts. But why are sundecks so popular?

In addition to being a comfortable place to soak up the sun, a sundeck also adds to the livability of a home. It can be used for entertaining guests, eating al fresco and spending time with family and friends, and it can even help increase property values.

For many homeowners, a sundeck is an ideal way to improve their outdoor space and take advantage of the beautiful Michigan weather. Whether it’s a brand new sundeck or an existing one, adding a sundeck is an easy and cost-effective way to make your home more enjoyable and increase its value.

The project was completed in September of 2021 and the residents love their newly renovated sundeck! The area is frequently used by residents for yoga, reading and socializing on weekends. It is also a great spot to relax during the day or enjoy a drink at night. The renovation included adding 2 areas of AstroTurf for added comfort and a fun splash of color, 4 teal dividers to separate spaces and create an interesting design element, new furniture that matches the existing pool area for consistency, and raising railing height around the deck for safety.

For data warehousing professionals, it seems like a no-brainer to be able to monitor and control query pathways, which are critical arteries of the entire data stack. Query optimization, data regulation compliance and responsible AI processes could all be made easier with Sundeck’s private result path technology and query transformation capabilities. It’s not hard to imagine other interesting applications, either. For example, preventing users from accidentally running billion record queries, automatically routing queries across warehouses based on cost, and providing hints or custom syntax to make analysts more productive all seem possible.