Safety and functionality are always the top priorities when it comes to building or renovating outdoor spaces. The odds of falling are higher in elevated areas, which is why having a sturdy and reliable railing system is critical. Plus, there is always the weather to consider — the chances of falling increase during bad weather when surfaces become slippery, so it's important to have a durable railing that can withstand the elements. Could an ipe railing be the right choice for your project? Durability and reliability Ipe is popular because of its durability. It is one of the hardest woods available in the market, which makes it an excellent choice for outdoor structures such as decks, patios, and railing systems. It is highly resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks, which are very common issues with other types of wood. This makes ipe railing a wise long-term investment that promises low maintenance and replacement costs. Sustainability Aside from its durability, ipe is also well-known as an eco-friendlier choice. It is harvested from sustainable forests, making it a renewable resource compared to tropical hardwoods that are often sourced from illegally logged areas. You can rest easy knowing that ipe production does not contribute to deforestation, which is one of the biggest environmental concerns we face today. Type of ipe railings Now, if you're nodding your head and ready to upgrade to an ipe railing, the next question would be, what type of ipe railing to choose? • Classic wood railings - Made entirely from ipe wood, these railings offer a timeless look that never goes out of style. You can personalize them with various designs and post styles to fit perfectly with your deck’s appearance. • Cable railings - Featuring sleek stainless steel cables stretched between ipe wood posts, these railings create a clean and contemporary feel for that sleek look that won't obstruct your view. • Ipe combined with metal – Why not mix the natural beauty of ipe with the modern elegance of wrought iron, aluminum, or stainless steel? This combination delivers on both aesthetics and durability. You can count on ABS Wood to supply your project with a variety of handrail options. Choose all-wood handrails or mix wood with Fortress Railing products, depending on your preference. For more details, call 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840. About the Author: Bruce Master is the general manager at Advanced Building Supplies. Advanced Building Supplies, aka ABS Wood, specializes in a full line of Brazilian Hardwood products, including Ipe, Garapa, Cumaru, and Tigerwood. The pursuit of working with exotic woods aligns naturally with Bruce's heritage, as he hails from a lineage of skilled woodworkers. Both his Grandfather and Father earned esteem as artisans and cabinetmakers. Alongside overseeing ABS, Bruce channels his talents into designing, planning, and executing his own deck projects. Prior to specializing in Brazilian Hardwoods, Bruce gained diverse experience as a generalist at a prominent Ace Hardware store in Miami, serving a discerning clientele of contractors focused on projects in Miami Beach.
The stair railing in your home is more than just a way to get from a floor to floor.
It’s a way to show off a major focal point and match it to your interior décor.
Always remember that you can retrofit your railing, add elements and customize your staircase to create a look that fits your eye and stands above the rest.
You can change up your railing quickly and less expensively than you would think.
