Ipe in C.A.

Speaking of trekking materials in from a thousand miles away... we had the opportunity to check out Ipe samples the other day. The color and texture are absolutely gorgeous (The pics above don't do Ipe justice.) but it's probably one of the heaviest blocks of wood I've ever held. Call your structural engineer before attempting.

Your basics: "Ipe is... tropical hardwood rated by the US Forest Lab for many years, naturally resistant to fire (rated “Class A” by the NFPA and “Class 1” by the UBC)." This explains the weight: "3,640 Janka [Hardness] vs.1,260 Red Oak"

Ipe is harvested in Brazil according to sustainable practices established by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO). It's mold resistant, fire resistant, and free of toxins, and needs to be cared for like any other hardwood (Seal it; know it will fade; expect it to last 15 years, etc.). And it's the perfect entree into a conversation about whether one should be importing sustainably-harvested wood, when reclaimed product is available closer to home. Discuss!