Front porch floor – pau lope

[Jim D]

I want to constuct a new front porch using “pau lope” (a/k/a Ipe, Ironwood). I’d like to know if someone has recommendations on the best installation. I am thinking of either using stainless steel screws (top application) or an angled undermount system.

Any thoughts?

[Henry in MI]

Jim, I dom’t think that anyone in this area has a tremendous length of experience with this wood but it has been used for about 10 years on a very limited basis. It is starting to get very popular and a major job for the new building of a large auto supplier was done using stainless from the top. You do have to drill and countersink. I wish that I could tell you more but the current popularity would seem to mean something.

Henry in MI

[BobK]

Jim,

I remember seeing this wood installed in two project homes done by TOH. In both instances they installed it with marine adhesive and finish nails (just to hold down while adhesive set) Perhaps you could find more info on install method on their web site. Good luck!

[deecee]

http://www.ebty.com

The May 2003 issue of the Family Handyman magazine shows construction going on with Ipe and this method of fastening. Not having holes show in this apparently gorgeous wood (have not obtained any of it myself yet) would seem to be a plus. Luck, Kizmet

[deecee]

http://www.ebty.com

The May 2003 issue of the Family Handyman magazine shows construction going on with Ipe and this method of fastening. Not having holes show in this apparently gorgeous wood (have not obtained any of it myself yet) would seem to be a plus. Luck, Kizmet

[Author]

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