Ipe versus TimberTech/Azek versus ???
Does anyone have any recommendations regarding decking for our replacement pool deck? It gets a heavy sunload--very little shade all year. My husband seems to be leaning toward one material, and I am leaning toward the other. I was hoping to hear some experiences.
We're looking at the newest line from TimberTech/Azek. It's a PVC (versus the older composite) and allegedly does not get as hot in the sun. We also are looking at ipe. We are planning to use clips (invisible fasteners) instead of screws, so the issue of pre-drilling all those holes won't really apply. We will order the boards grooved.
ETA: Apparently it's not PVC but some other polymer.
PROS
ipe-robust; low maintenance; natural look; somewhat fire resistant
Azek-almost NO maintenance; long warranty; probably even more fire resistant; lower heat absorption than other composite products; more consistent color
CONS
ipe-more expensive, especially to get the long boards we need and the grooves; requires staining to keep its look; cuts down trees
Azek-may look fake; exposed edges do not look like wood (because they're not); may still get too hot
What else should we be considering? We back to an open space, and fire IS a concern here. If fire is close, we're toast no matter what. But I think about embers and such from a fire farther away, and I want a material most resistant to that. The deck is over a hillside, so a concrete or paver patio is not an option. We need something with a fairly significant understructure. The outer edge is at least 6 feet above grade.
Last edited by sariana; 06-12-2021 at 01:39 PM.
DS '04 "Boogaboo"
DD '08 "Lilybear"