Ipe hardwood decking boards close-up showing rich grain texture
The Gold Standard

Ipe Hardwood

Everything you need to know about Ipe — pricing, sizes, profiles, installation tips, and maintenance — all in one place.

New to Ipe? Start with our in-depth What Is Ipe Wood? educational guide.

Janka Hardness

3,680 lbf

Fire Rating

Class A

Lifespan

Up to 75+ years

Density

1.05 g/cm³

Ipe Hardwood at a Glance

Ipe (pronounced "E-pay") is a Brazilian hardwood prized for extreme density, natural durability, and a rich chocolate-brown color. With a Janka hardness of 3,680 lbf, Class A fire rating, and an up to 75+ year outdoor lifespan, it's the benchmark for premium decking, siding, fencing, and timber projects.

For a deep dive into Ipe's origin, scientific properties, pros & cons, weathering behavior, and head-to-head comparisons with composite and other hardwoods, see our comprehensive What Is Ipe Wood? resource guide.

Want the full educational deep-dive?

Origin, technical data, pros & cons, weathering, Ipe vs Composite, Ipe vs Cumaru & more.

Ipe Decking Prices

Ipe decking starts at ~$5.19/LF for 1x4 E4E, with the popular 1x6 at ~$7.50/LF and 5/4x6 at ~$9.38/LF. Wider boards and milled profiles (pregrooved, T&G, shiplap) cost more. While this is higher than composite or pressure-treated alternatives upfront, Ipe's exceptional up to 75+ year lifespan and near-zero maintenance requirements make it significantly more cost-effective over the life of your deck.

For a detailed breakdown of pricing factors, grade differences, and cost comparisons, visit our Ipe pricing guide.

Ipe Decking Sizes & Profiles

Ipe decking is available in multiple dimensions and profile types to suit any project. Popular sizes include:

Common Decking Sizes

  • 1x6 Ipe Decking – Most popular residential size
  • 5/4x6 Ipe Decking - Thicker, commercial-grade option
  • 1x4 Ipe - Narrow profile for modern designs
  • 2x4 & 2x6 - Structural framing and heavy-duty applications

Available Profiles

For detailed dimensions and specifications, visit our Ipe wood sizes guide.

Why Choose Ipe Wood Decking?

Extreme Hardness

Resists scratches, dents, and wear better than any other decking

Rot & Decay Resistant

Natural oils prevent rot without chemical treatments

Insect Proof

Too dense for termites and other insects to penetrate

Fire Safe

Class A fire rating, the same as concrete and steel

Installation & Fasteners

Installation Requirements

Always follow local ICC building codes and AWC National Design Specifications for structural requirements.

  • Pre-drilling required: All screw holes must be pre-drilled due to Ipe's extreme density
  • Use stainless steel fasteners: Prevents corrosion and rust staining
  • Carbide-tipped drill bits: Essential for drilling through Ipe without dulling
  • Hidden fastener systems: Use pregrooved Ipe boards with hidden fasteners for a clean, screw-free surface

For complete step-by-step guidance, see our Ipe deck installation guide.

Maintenance & Sealing

One of Ipe's greatest advantages is its minimal maintenance requirements. Unlike composite decking or pressure-treated wood, Ipe does not require sealing or staining for protection from rot, insects, or moisture damage.

Optional UV Treatment

If you want to maintain Ipe's rich brown color, apply a UV-protective oil finish annually. Research from Penn State Extension on exterior wood finishes recommends penetrating oil-based products for dense hardwoods. Without treatment, Ipe will naturally weather to an elegant silver-gray patina while remaining structurally sound for decades.

Cleaning

Clean Ipe decking with a hardwood deck cleaner or simple soap and water. For deeper cleaning, a pressure washer on low setting works well. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the wood's natural oils.

Complete Ipe Maintenance Guide

Important Considerations

Higher Initial Cost

Ipe costs more upfront than composites or other hardwoods, but its longevity makes it a better long-term value. See our pricing breakdown.

Requires Pre-Drilling

Due to its density, all screw holes must be pre-drilled, which adds installation time. Learn about hidden fastener systems.

Natural Color Change

Ipe will naturally gray over time if left untreated. This doesn't affect durability but changes appearance. Read about Ipe maintenance options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ipe Wood

Quick answers to common questions about Ipe decking

Ipe decking starts at ~$5.19/LF for a 1x4 E4E board. The most popular sizes — 1x6 at ~$7.50/LF and 5/4x6 at ~$9.38/LF — offer the best value for residential decks. Wider boards and milled profiles cost more. While more expensive initially than composite or pressure-treated wood, Ipe's up to 75+ year lifespan and minimal maintenance make it more cost-effective over time.

Common Ipe decking sizes include 1x4, 1x6, 5/4x4, 5/4x6, 2x4, and 2x6. We also offer larger timbers for structural applications. All sizes are available in multiple profiles including square edge (E4E) and pregrooved for hidden fasteners.

Ipe does not require sealing or staining for protection from rot or insects. However, if you want to maintain the rich brown color, apply a UV-protective oil annually. Without treatment, Ipe will naturally weather to an elegant silver-gray patina while remaining structurally sound.

Ipe decking can last up to 75+ years outdoors with minimal maintenance. This far exceeds composite decking (25-30 years) and pressure-treated wood (10-15 years), making Ipe a superior long-term investment.

Yes. We responsibly, legally, and ethically source all our material. We work only with suppliers who practice legal, responsible forestry. Ipe grows slowly but is harvested selectively to preserve rainforest ecosystems. Note: We are not FSC certified.

For face-screwed installation, choose square edge (E4E) boards. For hidden fastener systems, choose pregrooved boards which have channels routed along each edge. Pregrooved is typically preferred for its clean appearance without visible screws.

Yes. Due to Ipe's extreme density, you must pre-drill all screw holes using carbide-tipped drill bits. Use stainless steel fasteners to prevent corrosion. A variable-speed drill and countersink bit are essential for proper installation.

Absolutely. Ipe is excellent for siding (shiplap or rainscreen profiles), fencing, pergolas, and any outdoor application where durability matters. Its natural resistance to rot and insects makes it ideal for vertical applications.

How does Ipe perform in your climate?

Species rankings, installation adjustments, and maintenance schedules for every US climate zone.

Ipe by Application

Learn why Ipe excels for decking, siding, and fencing projects.

Ipe Decking

Ipe is widely regarded as the gold standard for hardwood decking. With a Janka hardness of 3,680 lbf and a Class A fire rating, it delivers unmatched performance in residential and commercial deck applications. Ipe's extreme density means it resists scratches, dents, and heavy foot traffic better than any other decking material—including composites. Its natural oils repel water, mold, and insects without any chemical treatment, making it ideal for pool surrounds, rooftop decks, and waterfront boardwalks. Whether you choose face-screwed eased-edge boards or pregrooved boards with hidden fasteners, Ipe decking will maintain its structural integrity for up to 75+ years with minimal maintenance. Its rich chocolate-brown color deepens over the first few months, or you can let it weather to an elegant silver-gray patina.

Explore all decking options

Ipe Siding

Ipe siding transforms the exterior of any building with rich, natural warmth and unmatched longevity. Available in shiplap, rainscreen, and tongue-and-groove profiles, Ipe cladding provides a weather-tight barrier that resists rot, insects, and UV degradation for decades. Its Class A fire rating makes it compliant with strict wildfire zone building codes where many other materials fail. Ipe's density means it won't dent or gouge from hail, debris, or everyday contact, and its dimensional stability keeps joints tight season after season. Architects and builders choose Ipe siding for projects where both aesthetics and performance are non-negotiable—from coastal homes to commercial storefronts.

Explore all siding options

Ipe Fencing

Ipe fencing delivers privacy, security, and curb appeal that lasts a lifetime. While cedar fences typically need replacing every 10-15 years, an Ipe privacy fence can stand strong for up to 75+ years without rotting, warping, or succumbing to termites. Its extreme density makes it nearly impossible for insects to penetrate, and its natural oils prevent moisture absorption even in ground-contact applications. Ipe fence boards are available in standard 1x6 and 5/4x6 dimensions, and the rich brown color (or weathered gray) adds a premium look that dramatically increases property value. For homeowners and builders who want a "build it once" solution, Ipe fencing is the clear choice.

Explore all fencing options

How Does Ipe Compare to Alternatives?

Learn how Ipe stacks up against composite decking, other hardwoods, and common alternatives.

Ready to Choose Ipe?

Browse our full selection of Ipe products or get a custom quote for your project.