Q What sizes of Mataverde® are available?

A Mataverde® is available in many different widths, thicknesses and lengths and railing specifications. Please see the stock list for detailed information. Because of the extraordinary strength of Mataverde®, a 1” x 4” or 1” x 6” length can be fastened with 16” on-center joist spacing; a 5/4” x 6” length can be fastened with 24” on-center joist spacing with no deflection or movement in residential installations.

Q Are there particular installation procedures required when using Mataverde® ?

A Mataverde® is a very dense, heavy exterior hardwood. (see Comparative Strength Values of Mataverde® Chart) It is recommended that a carbide blade be used for cutting, and that all holes be pre-drilled with a tapered, hardened steel or diamond drill bit. Stainless steel screws are recommended. caution: Galvanized fasteners will discolor the surface of the wood. (Please see our Installation Guidelines) 

Q What type of finishes are required for Mataverde®?

A Mataverde® provides a maintenance-free option when allowed to weather to a silvery gray patina. For this option, apply a single coat of SEASONITE® as soon as possible, no additional application is needed. If the natural brown tone is desired, use a penetrating oil with a UV inhibitor. There are many products to choose from. Please refer to the manufacturers' guidelines before application.

Q What about cutting the trees... isn’t that harmful and destructive to the rain forest?

A Mataverde® is harvested according to the latest guidelines of environmentally responsible forestry experts. Assigning economic value to the forest ensures that it will be protected. Using the lumber products to provide income to the local people makes it unnecessary to cut and burn for subsistence crops and cattle ranching. Mataverde® is harvested from mill-owned property and only two to three trees per hectare are removed every 20 years. Opening the canopy in the rainforest in this small way has proven to provide more sunlight and rain to smaller trees, whereby yielding a 15% increase in growth. This “sustained-yield forestry” system will ensure there will be as many mature trees in the rainforest in 20 years as there are today.

Q Is Mataverde® priced competitively with other outdoor woods? 

A Mataverde® is an economic and environmentally-responsible alternative to other woods when the entire life-cycle cost is considered. Pressure treated decks split, crack, twist and splinter requiring costly maintenance programs and finally replacement several times during the lifetime of a home or commercial installation. These materials and their bothersome maintenance often reflect negatively on the installer or designer. Redwood, Cypress, and Cedar are rarely available in the clear heartwood necessary to eliminate long-term concerns regarding rot and weathering or at a price competitive with Mataverde®. Contact us for a specific quote for your needs.

Q Does Mataverde® come with a warranty?

A Mataverde® has a 25-year, limited warranty against decay and insect damage; there are 50-year-old installations that have yet to require maintenance!

Mataverde® Premium IPE Decking

 is a registered trademark and distributed by SKC, Ltd., a division of General Woodcraft, Inc.   531 Broad Street, New London, CT 06320
Contact us at 860 444-7524 fax 860 444-0517 sales@mataverdedecking.com Or use this Form