Buffalo, New York-based Advantage Trim & Lumber offers Cumaro decking as Ipe alternative, as rush to build for World Cup, Olympics has contributed to increase in Ipe prices

Wendy Lisney

BUFFALO, New York , August 25, 2011 (press release) – As with any commodity, a rise in worldwide demand and a constrained supply have led to wild upswings in the price of hardwoods like Ipe decking. Even the rush to construct buildings for the upcoming World Cup and Olympics in Brazil has led to Ipe decking becoming scarce and more expensive. In addition to supply and demand factors, fluctuating exchange rates and a weakening dollar have contributed to the increased cost of Ipe decking. Even domestic species have had similar price increases. Bad weather has had a profound impact on hardwood supply by hindering the ability of logging companies to harvest timber. This, in turn, drives prices up even for popular domestic species.

What does this all mean for the average American homeowner or contractor? Decking options like Cumaru wood are plentiful, low-cost, and a solid, long-lasting alternative to Ipe. According to Jon Fletcher, Sales Manager of Advantage Trim & Lumber, "The difference between Ipe and Cumaru in terms of overall strength is just 2%. The difference in hardness is only 4%. However, the price per lineal foot difference is close to 40%. That is a significant savings that shaves hundreds, and sometimes thousands of dollars, off the cost of both residential home and large-scale commercial projects. Many contractors report back to us that their customers are very happy with the overall look and feel of our Cumaru decking." Here are some additional benefits of Cumaru decking:

•Responsibly harvested from managed forests
•Up to 40% savings compared to Ipe & composites
•Attractive colors from reddish brown to honey brown
•Low maintenance with a 25-year life span
•Excellent mold, rot and decay resistance
•Splinter and knot free makes Cumaru safe for bare feet
•Durable for both commercial or residential applications
•100% natural, chemical-free material

About Advantage Trim & Lumber Company

Advantage Trim & Lumber Company is a leading supplier of decking in the United States. With over 120,000 square feet of manufacturing space, Advantage Trim & Lumber imports and produces decking, hardwood flooring, hardwood lumber and a variety of certified FSC wood. Through their international supply chain, Advantage delivers wholesale decking and hardwood across the world from their locations in Grover, North Carolina and Buffalo, New York.

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