Hardwood Educational Multimedia Resources

BWD’s Hardwood Decking Wizard

Smart Product Recommendations

The Decking Wizard is a free, interactive tool designed to help homeowners, contractors, and designers choose the right hardwood decking, fasteners, and installation approach for their specific project conditions. It functions as a project-analysis tool that evaluates the specific environmental and structural conditions of your deck build and produces a personalized, downloadable PDF report.

The Wizard Helps You Choose:

  • ✔ Hardwood Species
  • ✔ Hardwood Product Type
  • ✔ Fastening Method
  • ✔ Structural Compatibility

How It Works

The BWD Hardwood Decking Wizard generates tailored recommendations based on your deck’s specific installation conditions.
It provides professional guidance without needing a phone call or email — saving you hours of research and uncertainty.
Takes only 4–5 minutes to complete.

Ready to find the best hardwood species and fastening system for your project?


Launch the Decking Wizard

IPEcertified™ Online Certification

Free Professional Course

IPEcertified is a fully comprehensive, interactive online course covering everything you need to know about the exterior use of tropical hardwoods like Ipe.

Includes videos, animations, demonstrations, and a final exam.

Course Sections Include:

  • Tropical Hardwoods & Species Introductions
  • Decking & Lumber Profiles
  • Hardwood Basics
  • Deck Fastening (Surface & Hidden)
  • RainScreen Siding & T&G Cladding
  • Optimizing Performance (Airflow & Scoring)
  • Sustainability & Enforcement

Why Get Certified?

Stand out as a knowledgeable contractor, architect, or installer in the competitive hardwood market.
Upon passing the final exam, you receive an official IPEcertified Certificate of Completion.
Designed to elevate your credibility and professional authority.

Advance your hardwood expertise and earn your certification today.


Start the IPEcertified Course

Comprehensive Installation Guides

Professional Installation Resources

The most thorough hardwood installation guides in the industry — built to ensure long-term performance and project success.

Review the relevant guide in its entirety for best results.

Guides Cover:

  • Surface Deck Fastening
  • Clip Fastening Systems
  • CAMO Edge Fastening
  • DeckMaster Undermount
  • ProPlug & Trim Fastening
  • Tongue & Groove Porch Decking
  • RainScreen Siding
  • Deck Tiles
  • Cleaning & Oiling Process

Why These Matter

Proper fastening and ventilation directly affect hardwood longevity and structural integrity.
These guides include professional tips, best practices, and troubleshooting insights used by experienced installers.
Designed to maximize performance and reduce long-term maintenance issues.

Access detailed step-by-step instructions and professional best practices for your hardwood project.


View Installation Guides

BWD YouTube Videos

Video Learning Library
Explore our growing collection of educational hardwood videos covering installation, fastening systems, ventilation, maintenance, and performance optimization. A fast and engaging way to build your exterior hardwood knowledge.


Watch Videos

BWD Architect Design Library

CAD, BIM & Specifications
Download CAD files, specifications, BIM models, and technical resources for incorporating Brazilian hardwood decking and siding into architectural plans. Built specifically for design professionals.


Access Design Files

10 Common Problems With Ipe Decking

Myths vs. Reality
We break down the most common concerns about Ipe decking — what’s true, what’s misunderstood, and how to ensure long-term success with the right installation and ventilation practices.


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Ipe’s Sustainability Problems… And the Solutions

Environmental Impact & Responsibility
Is Ipe bad for the environment? Does it contribute to deforestation? This deep dive explains sourcing, enforcement, sustainability standards, and why properly managed tropical hardwood can be a responsible choice.


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