26 Dec 5 Reasons Garapa Decking is Perfect for Coastal Climates
When designing a deck in coastal regions, the environment presents unique challenges that call for a durable, resilient, and aesthetically appealing material. Coastal climates bring saltwater, high humidity, and intense sun exposure, all of which can degrade certain materials quickly. One hardwood that excels in such conditions is Garapa. Known for its strength, beauty, and resistance to the elements, Garapa is the perfect solution for coastal decking projects. In this blog, we’ll discuss the top five reasons why Garapa decking from Platinum Woods stands out as the ideal choice for coastal climates.
Woods for Coastal Climates: 5 Reasons Garapa Decking is Perfect
1. Natural Resistance to Moisture and Rot
Coastal environments expose decks to constant moisture from rain, humidity, and saltwater spray. Traditional woods often succumb to rot, warping, and fungal growth in such conditions, but Garapa, with its natural oils, stands strong against moisture. This hardwood has a unique ability to resist water absorption, making it highly resistant to rot and decay.
Compared to domestic woods like Cypress, which requires regular maintenance and treatment to withstand moisture, Garapa offers a superior low-maintenance option for coastal climates. While Ipe also performs well in such environments, Garapa provides a lighter and more cost-effective alternative, all without sacrificing performance.
The Garapa wood offered by Platinum Woods also comes with the added assurance of 100% chain of custody and FSC certification, ensuring that it’s sustainably sourced and eco-friendly. By choosing Platinum Woods Garapa, you are investing in a product that not only withstands the coastal elements but also supports sustainable forestry practices.
2. Strength and Durability: Built for Coastal Elements
Coastal decks are subjected to heavy foot traffic, strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures, all of which can take a toll on decking materials. Garapa, with its Janka hardness rating of 1,630 lbf, is classified as a hardwood, making it significantly more durable than domestic softwoods like Cypress, which has a much lower Janka rating of 510 lbf. This means Garapa is more resistant to dents, scratches, and overall wear, making it the perfect choice for high-traffic coastal environments.
While Ipe boasts an even higher Janka rating of 3,680 lbf, Garapa offers an excellent balance of strength and workability, being easier to install while still providing long-term durability. Garapa’s lighter weight compared to Ipe makes it easier to handle during construction, yet it still delivers exceptional performance in coastal settings.
3. Saltwater and Pest Resistance
One of the most significant concerns for coastal decking is exposure to saltwater and pests. Saltwater can lead to warping, cracking, and general deterioration in many materials, but Garapa is naturally resistant to saltwater damage. The natural oils within Garapa prevent it from absorbing moisture, meaning that it won’t swell or degrade when exposed to salty air or water.
In addition to its resistance to water, Garapa is also impervious to pest infestations. Unlike softer domestic woods, which are susceptible to termites and other wood-boring insects, Garapa’s dense fibers provide a natural barrier, making it a reliable choice for coastal homes and properties where pest control is a concern.
4. Stunning Golden Hue: Aesthetic Appeal for Coastal Living
Garapa is not just known for its durability; it’s also prized for its beautiful golden tones. Often called the “golden tone hardwood,” Garapa starts with a light golden-brown color, which adds warmth and elegance to any deck. Over time, if left untreated, Garapa will develop a stunning silvery-gray patina, blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings of coastal environments.
For homeowners and architects who prioritize both form and function, Garapa offers the perfect balance. Its unique and striking color and its ability to age beautifully in salty, humid conditions make it an ideal material for coastal decking projects.
5. Sustainability and Certification: The Platinum Woods Advantage
When it comes to choosing a sustainable material for your coastal deck, Platinum Woods Garapa stands out for its environmental credentials. Platinum Woods ensures a 100% chain of custody, meaning that every piece of Garapa wood can be traced from the forest to the final product. This guarantees that the wood is responsibly sourced from well-managed forests, supporting biodiversity and preventing deforestation.
Moreover, Platinum Woods Garapa is FSC-certified, meaning it adheres to the strict environmental standards of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). By choosing FSC-certified wood, you’re making an eco-friendly decision that helps reduce the impact on the environment while enjoying the benefits of a top-quality product.
Sustainability doesn’t stop with the sourcing. Garapa’s long lifespan and natural resistance to decay also reduce the need for chemical treatments or frequent replacements, making it an excellent eco-friendly option for those seeking durable, long-lasting decking material in coastal areas.
Profiles and Sizes Available for Custom Decking
At Garapa Decking Florida, we offer Garapa in a variety of sizes to meet your decking needs:
- 1×4
- 1×6
- 1×6 Extra
Our custom milling services allow you to create the perfect profile for your decking project. Whether you need shiplap, tongue and groove, rainscreen, or grooved boards for hidden fasteners, we can mill your Garapa decking to fit your specific design requirements. Custom profiles like V-joint are also available for projects that require a more traditional or decorative touch, perfect for ceiling and wall paneling in coastal homes.
Comparing Garapa to Ipe and Cypress for Coastal Decks
While both Ipe and Garapa are excellent choices for coastal decking, each offers its own set of advantages. Ipe is harder and denser, making it virtually impervious to anything the environment throws at it. However, Ipe is more difficult to work with and comes at a higher cost. Garapa, on the other hand, offers a more affordable alternative that still provides excellent durability, saltwater resistance, and long-term beauty.
Compared to Cypress, a domestic softwood, Garapa is much harder, stronger, and more resistant to rot and insects. While Cypress is known for its resistance to decay, it simply cannot match the hardness and density of Garapa, making the latter a better option for high-traffic, exposed areas typical of coastal environments.
Conclusion: Why Garapa is the Best Choice for Coastal Decking
For those building or renovating decks in coastal climates, Garapa stands out as the perfect hardwood. With its natural resistance to moisture, saltwater, and pests, as well as its impressive strength and stunning golden appearance, Garapa is built to withstand the unique challenges of coastal environments. Its affordability compared to Ipe and superior durability over Cypress make it the smart choice for homeowners and builders alike.
At Garapa Decking Florida, we offer Platinum Woods Garapa, a sustainably sourced and FSC-certified hardwood that ensures both quality and environmental responsibility. With custom milling options, a wide variety of sizes, and the ability to stand up to the harshest elements, Garapa is the right choice for your next coastal decking project.