Weather and the constant forces of nature are wood’s worst enemies. In the 1920’s Karl Wolman invented a way to infuse wood with chemicals to make the wood resistant to rot as well as insect and fungus damage. Wolman’s process forces preservatives into the wood under very high pressure, hence the name pressure-treated lumber.
IPE railing gives the beauty of genuine wood with the advantages of natural resistance to wear, rot, splintering, and insects.
Cedar is a popular decking material here in the Northeast. It is easy to work with and weathers beautifully, and it provides a non-toxic wood for bare feet and hands.