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We've gathered the most commonly asked questions about DeckWise. If your question isn't answered here, you may also contact us with any questions you may have.
Product Questions
What is Ipe Oil?
DeckWise Ipe Oil is popular hardwood finish used by homeowners and contractors that adds years of life to decks or any other outdoor objects. Its clear, oil-based formula protects and preserves the beauty of exotic hardwoods, while also preventing damages that can result from harmful elements like UV rays, high temperatures, humidity, mildew, fungi, mold, rain and snow.
How to apply DeckWise Ipe Oil:
Clean the hardwood surface and let dry for 24 to 48 hours.
Apply one coat of Ipe Oil by using a brush, roller, rag or sprayer.
Wait 30-45 minutes for Ipe Oil to soak into the hardwood.
Wipe off any excess Ipe Oil.
Maintain the finish by using wood cleaner and brightener at least once a year and reapplying Ipe Oil every 1 to 2 years.
Watch how easy it is to apply DeckWise Ipe Oil in the video below.
Where can I learn how to apply Ipe Oil?
For the best results using DeckWise Ipe Oil, utilize a high quality 3/8” nap roller, pad applicator or stain brush. When spraying, immediately back roll after each segment is covered for proper penetrative protection. To prevent overlap marks, begin at one edge and follow towards the end of the wooden boards. Apply Ipe Oil to small areas and keep 2-3 boards wet at all times. Always rub oil into the wood boards parallel to the grain of the wood. Completely wipe off any excess oil that does not soak in. For exterior home furniture, hand apply the finish into the hardwood grain using a soft cloth. Reapply oil depending on sun exposure and traffic areas every Spring and Fall to ensure a luxurious finish.
How much Ipe Oil do I need to cover my deck?
The coverage of DeckWise Ipe Oil may vary based on the condition of the wood. For example, smooth wood will require approximately 1 gallon of DeckWise Ipe Oil for 250-300 square feet of coverage. For application on rough wood surfaces, use approximately 1 gallon of DeckWise Ipe Oil to cover 150-250 square feet.
What type of wood is compatible with DeckWise Ipe Oil?
DeckWise Ipe Oil provides excellent penetration for even the densest hardwoods with minimal raising of the grain. It protects and conditions the wood while maintaining a completely natural appearance. DeckWise Ipe Oil is commonly used on hardwoods such as Ipe, Tigerwood, Cumaru and other exotic hardwoods.
How to prepare your deck for Ipe Oil:
Use DeckWise Wood Cleaner Part 1 with a firm fiber brush or possibly lightly power wash to remove the surface layer of grime, mildew stains, loose grain fibers and other unknown material on the surface of your deck or hardwood siding.
Mix Ipe Oil thoroughly before applying. Ensure that any settled material at the bottom of the can is evenly incorporated. Intermix multiple containers for an even blend.
What is WiseCoat?
DeckWise WiseCoat is a premium hardwood deck, siding and fence waterproofing sealer that is non-toxic, zero VOC and emits little to no odor. It has a water-based formula that penetrates the surface of hardwood to create a barrier that protects against the damaging effects of mold, mildew, dry rot, peeling, harsh weather conditions and the cracking or splitting of wood. WiseCoat has a semi-transparent tint that blocks UV rays from graying hardwood, and also enhances the natural grain and texture of hardwood without drastically changing its original color. It can be used on both dark and light hardwoods and is available in a 1 gallon can that covers approximately 250-350 sq. ft. per coat.
What is the difference between WiseCoat and Ipe Oil?
DeckWise WiseCoat is water-based and contains zero VOCs, while Ipe Oil is oil-based and has a low 250 VOCs. VOCs are organic compounds that easily become gases and can sometimes be considered hazardous or air pollutants. WiseCoat is ultimately a non-toxic and more eco-friendly option to protect your deck. The water-based nature of WiseCoat also means that it does not have shipping regulations like oil-based Ipe Oil is held to.
How to apply DeckWise WiseCoat:
Clean the hardwood surface and let dry.
Mix, stir or shake the can of WiseCoat thoroughly before use.
Apply two coats using a sprayer, brush or stain pad. Spray the wood surface with a mist of water and apply WiseCoat immediately. Back brush out any puddles.
Let dry for 2-3 hours.
Clean sprayer, brushes or other equipment with soap and water.
Re-apply WiseCoat when necessary.
How much WiseCoat do I need to cover my deck?
A 1 gallon can of WiseCoat covers approximately 250-350 sq. ft. per coat, but actual coverage can vary due to the porosity of the wood surface.
How long does it take for DeckWise WiseCoat to dry?
WiseCoat will typically be dry enough to walk on in roughly 2-3 hours, but allow 12-24 hours of drying time for it to fully cure.
How to prepare your deck for DeckWise WiseCoat:
Clean all dirt, dust, loose material, and debris using DeckWise Wood Cleaner Part 1 and a firm fiber brush or possibly lightly power wash.
Mix WiseCoat by shaking or stirring the canister contents thoroughly prior to application.
What type of woods can be used with WiseCoat?
DeckWise WiseCoat is designed to protect, preserve and enhance all types of exotic hardwoods, including South American hardwoods and American thermally modified wood. This sealer will enhance both darker hardwoods and lighter hardwoods. The full list of WiseCoat compatible wood is listed below.
Dark Hardwoods:
Ipe
Cumaru
Massaranduba
Beefwood
Cherry
Cedar
Walnut
African Padauk
Merbau
Ebony
Live Oak
Brown Oak
Rosewood
Purple Heart
Light Hardwoods:
Tigerwood
Garapa
Teak
White Oak
Jatoba
Chestnut
Pine
Gum
Ironwood
Red Oak
Birch
Ashe
Alder
Aspen
Cypress
Hickory
Pecan
Poplar
Maple
What can I use WiseCoat on?
Use DeckWise WiseCoat on hardwood decks, fences, siding, outdoor furniture, docks, shake roofs, railings, timber framing and play sets.
Where can I learn how to straighten a deck board?
The DeckWise Hardwood Wrench is a self-locking board straightening tool. With its larger self-locking cam, stainless steel and ergonomic hardwood handle, and adjustable joist pins, it straightens deck boards with ease. The Hardwood Wrench is expandable, reversible, dual-purpose and has a pushing force of roughly 1,100 pounds.
How far should I space my deck boards?
It is essential to have a minimum space between deck boards of 1⁄8” for drainage purposes and to prevent warping. This can be done easily by using two or more DeckWise Deck Board Spacers every 24 inches between boards. Deck Board Spacers are also available in 4 larger sizes if you desire a more spaced decking design.
Which Ipe Clip should I use for my deck?
The Ipe Clip Extreme Fastener creates a 3/32" decking gap. It's recommended for use with Air Dried Decking. The square shape provides more surface contact for extra holding power. DeckWise Extreme 100 Count Kits include clips and screws, and the DeckWise Extreme 175 Count Complete Kits include clips, screws, Ipe plugs and driver bits. For larger projects, choose DeckWise Extreme Contractor Buckets. Please note: The Extreme clip is available in short and tall options. For thicker decking, choose DeckWise Extreme Tall Clips which feature a longer leg height.
The Ipe Clip ExtremeKD Fastener creates a 1/4" decking gap. It's recommended for use with Kiln Dried, Composite and PVC Decking. The hollow leg shape is ideal for expansion of kiln dried decking materials. DeckWise ExtremeKD 100 Count Kits include clips, screws, and spacer tools. The DeckWise ExtremeKD 175 Count Complete Kits include clips, screws, Ipe plugs, driver bits and spacer tools.
The Ipe Clip Extreme4 Fastener creates a 5/32" decking gap. It's recommended for use with Kiln Dried, Composite and PVC Decking. The versatile leg ensures maximum compatibility with most decking materials. DeckWise Extreme4 100 Count Kits include clips, screws, and spacer tools. The DeckWise Extreme4 175 Count Complete Kits include clips, screws, Ipe plugs, driver bits, and spacer tools. For larger projects, choose DeckWise Extreme4 Contractor Buckets.
Ipe Standard clips was the original Ipe clip and are not commonly used. One of the three Extreme clips are most likely a better a choice for your deck application. The DeckWise Standard 100 Count Kits include clips and screws and the DeckWise Standard 175 Count Complete Kits include clips, screws, Ipe plugs, and driver bits.
What size DeckWise screw should I use?
There should be at least 1 inch of thread into the framing material. So, a 2 x 6 deck board that is 11⁄2 inches thick should use a 21⁄2 - 3 inch long deck screw (depending on your preference).
How many DeckWise screws are needed per deck board?
It is necessary to use 2 screws where the board crosses a joist to prevent deck board cupping, but some people prefer to use 3 screws. Rim joists may require 3 screws.
Which DeckWise screw is best for my project?
DeckWise offers five main types of screws with a variety of sizes, colors and options:
DeckWise ColorMatch Stainless Steel Trim-Head Screws are available in several colors. These screws match the colors of the DeckWise Ipe Clips. DeckWise Colormatch Decking Screws are made from high-quality 305 grade stainless steel for optimum performance with hardwoods and composite decking materials. T15 star drive finish heads and auger tips provide easy installation. Note: 316 stainless steel with with a T10 Bit. This 316 stainless steel screw is used in coastal applications.
DeckWise Composite Deck Screws are available in a variety of colors and are for use with composite and other plastic based materials. The Composite Screws are not for use with Ipe Clips. These screws feature a stainless steel body that is strong and corrosion-resistant. The anti-fade painted heads match many popular colors of composite decking. Advanced point and thread design mean these screws provide high performance. The T20 head delivers plenty of torque without stripping out the heads. The heads are designed to eliminate mushrooming or marring of deck surfaces. Threading grabs the board and holds it tight to the joist. Threads also compress dust deep in the hole to reduce mushrooming. The sharp Type 17 auger point cuts fast and clean without splintering or splitting.
DeckWise Self-Tapping Metal Joist Deck Screws are designed explicitly for metal applications. This multipurpose screw can be used to fasten all types of decking material from PVC, thermally modified wood, composite, capstock, and hardwoods to aluminum or steel. The Xylan coated #3 drill point and lead threads are tough enough to drill through metal and the load-bearing shaft area remains forgiving to remain ductile and resistant to stress cracking. It is a high performance 410 stainless steel fastener which allows Pro builders and DIY installs a uniform and long-lasting solution for metal joist decks.
DeckWise Bugle-Head Screws fastens all types of wood decking including Ipe, Redwood, Cedar, and preservative-treated (PT) woods (non-hardwood). These T25 drive deck screws swiftly penetrate decking with a Type-17 auger point including coarse threading which pulls boards tightly together. The double countersink flat bugle head has 6 nibs; utilizes a 6 lobe star drive to reduce cam-out and increase torque; and comes as a chipboard thread screw with partial thread and triple spline (one at the beginning on the thread and two at the end of point) and has a variety of colormatch painted heads to match your wood color.
DeckWise 18-8 Grade Heat-Treated Stainless Steel Deck Screws offer our specially engineered four-sided tips and a serrated thread design to minimize board splitting or splintering, even when drilling near the edge. Heat treated for hardened toughness means less stripping, less snapping and less headaches when installing hidden deck fasteners, hidden siding fasteners or face screwing.
Choose the DeckWise screw that best fits your project and rest assured knowing that all DeckWise screws are made from high quality stainless steel and feature type 17 auger tips.
What type of screws should I use for metal joist, such as Trex Elevations?
DeckWise Self-Tapping Metal Joist Deck Screws feature an auger tip and are designed for use with metal joists. They are available in 2-1/4 inch metal screws and 1-5/8 inch metal screws.
Can I use DeckWise Ipe Seal End Grain Sealer - 1 Quart on the surface of the deck?
The DeckWise Ipe Sealer - 1 Quart is not for use on the top surface of the deck. It is only designed for sealing the end of the deck boards.
Should I use a short or tall clip?
DeckWise Short Clips will work on any board, but some people choose to use the tall clips.
DeckWise Short Clips will work on any board thickness, but the tall clips are ordered for what the industry describes as "5/4 Board", which means any board thickness exceeding 1".
DeckWise Tall Clips are available for Extreme and Standard Ipe Clips. *Tall Clips are not available in Extreme 4 or Extreme KD.
What is the difference between DeckWise WiseRail Heritage and Estate cable railing styles?
The difference is mostly aesthetics. WiseRail Estate is slightly less visible and more sleek. WiseRail Heritage has a bolt on the back of it that can be covered with a cap. The Estate is slightly easier to install with a pushlock method. Both styles use an outside to outside post mount.
