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Decking & Detail Photos
(click photos to enlarge)
The 5/4" x 6" Ipe decking was installed using Deckmaster brand hidden fastener brackets. These brackets allow
for an installation that provides a smooth unblemished decking surface. When using Ipe, this type of fastening system is highly
recommended because of the expense and beauty of the wood. The decking boards are held in place with screws in pre-drilled
holes from below. Plan on purchasing a lot of drill bits if using this method! I used approximately 20 titanium bits in the
process of installing the decking alone. The screws fasten at an angle so the holes need to be drilled angled as well.
This causes the drill bits to snap fairly easily. No matter how slow and difficult this process is, the end results are well
worth it! See for yourself in the pictures below.
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| Decking - 1 |
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| Decking - 2 |
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| Decking - 3 |
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Ipe is a beautiful wood that is naturally resistant to rot and insects. If left untreated, it will last for many
years while turning a weathered, silvery color. If you wish to retain the color and definition of the grain, a uv. protecting
coating must be applied and maintained. Once again, this process is well worth it. Here is a detail photo of the centerboard
of the upper level. This particular board was installed by countersinking screws from the top and using Ipe plugs to cover
the screw heads.
This photo shows the Ipe installed without any sealer on the left, and one fresh coat of clear (natural) Penofin
brand Exotic Hardwood Oil finish on the right. Before completion, the entire deck will receive at least two coats of finish.
After that, the finish will need to be maintained on an "as needed" basis depending on the amount of sun and weathering the
deck will be exposed to.
This is the beginning of the pressure treated framing for the planter/bench.
Some more photos of the planter/bench framing in progress.
Some drains will be installed in the planter to allow for excess rainwater to filter through the soil rather
than overflow the planter creating a muddy mess. There will also be a vinyl liner installed to prevent muddy water from seeping
through the framing and onto the deck surface.
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