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Ipe Wood 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 ipe decking, siding, fencing, and timber projects. Wondering what is ipe wood? Its natural oils make it inherently resistant to rot, decay, insects, and mold — no chemical treatment required. See how it stacks up in our ipe vs cumaru comparison, or explore ipe decking alternatives.
New to Ipe? Read our beginner's guide: What Is Ipe Wood?
Ipe Wood 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
- Square Edge (E4E) - Standard face-screwed installation
- Pregrooved Decking - For hidden fastener systems
- Shiplap Profile - For siding applications
- Tongue & Groove - For covered porch flooring
For detailed dimensions and specifications, visit our Ipe wood sizes guide.
Why Choose Ipe Wood?
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
New to Ipe? Read our beginner's guide: What Is Ipe Wood? →
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.
Explore our full range of Ipe lumber products: Ipe decking boards, Ipe wood fencing, and Ipe boardwalk lumber — available in standard and custom-milled profiles for residential and commercial projects.
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 wood
Ipe is a dense tropical hardwood from Brazil, rated 3,680 lbf on the Janka scale. It is used for decking, siding, fencing, and outdoor structures due to its exceptional durability and natural resistance to rot, insects, and fire.
Ipe decking lasts 25–75+ years with minimal maintenance. Boardwalks built with Ipe in the 1960s are still in service today. This far exceeds composite decking (15-25 years) and pressure-treated wood (10-15 years).
Sealing is not required. Ipe naturally resists rot and insects without treatment. An annual application of hardwood oil maintains the brown color. Unsealed Ipe weathers to an elegant silver-gray patina while remaining structurally sound.
Prices vary by size and grade. See current pricing at our decking page.
Common sizes include 1x4, 1x6, 5/4x4, and 5/4x6 in lengths from 8–20 ft. We also offer 2x4, 2x6, and larger timbers. All sizes are available in square edge (E4E) and pregrooved profiles for hidden fasteners.
Ipe Woods USA sources responsibly and legally harvested material. We work only with suppliers who practice selective harvesting to preserve rainforest ecosystems. Ask about certification documentation for your project.
Yes. Ipe performs well as exterior siding due to its natural oil content, Class A fire rating, and resistance to rot and insects. Available in shiplap, rainscreen, and tongue & groove profiles for cladding applications.
Rarely when properly installed and maintained. Pre-drilling all fastener holes and using hidden fastener systems eliminates most surface disruption. Ipe's tight grain and density produce a naturally smooth surface.
Ipe is harder, cooler underfoot, and longer-lasting than composite. It does not fade, warp, or off-gas. Ipe lasts 75+ years versus 15-25 for composite. Over a 50-year span, Ipe typically costs less because it never needs replacement.
Ipe rates 3,680 lbf on the Janka hardness scale — approximately 3× harder than Red Oak (1,290 lbf) and harder than most composite and PVC alternatives. Only a few exotic species like Australian Buloke are harder.
Ready to browse sizes and current pricing? Browse ipe decking boards with live pricing →