Replies

1. 
   jonsherryl | Apr 09, 2002 06:18pm | #1

   Mike, ipe is extremely dense (comparable to the rosewoods in specific gravity) so, don't design anything requiring a lot of hand tool processes. Otherwise, it has very good shaping characteristics. As with virtually all exceptionally dense woods, adhesives can't always achieve a good mechanical bond, but it doesn't contain an excess of oils or other extractives that seriously interfere with glues and finishes, as is the case with teak and rosewood. It is so dense that it develops a sort of natural polish when rubbed, so an applied finish is optional and could be nothing more than a little wax. The major concern with its chemistry is that it contains lapachol, a compound similar to the one in teak, that can be a potent allergen...So, if this is your first time working with it, be a little careful with the dust until you discover whether you have an unusually high sensitivity to it.

2. 
   IronDog | Apr 10, 2002 12:57am | #2

   Mike,

   Amazing wood!

   I built a large deck with Gazebo out of it a couple years ago and it was a trial dealing with it. But that deck will last a long, long time.

   I still have a lot of cutoffs from that project and have been building some outdoor furniture with it using stainless steel screws for fasteners. You can expect some burning as carbide encounters this stuff. It is the toughest of the tough. Also be careful breathing the dust, it can cause reactions.

   You might have to let your tools and cutters rest and cool while working this material. It is beautiful and weathers to a nice silver grey after much outdoor exposure.

   Have fun,

   Tom

   
   

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   Edited 4/9/2002 5:59:21 PM ET by IronDog