Question 1

What is the difference between Ipe decking grades?

Accepted Answer

We follow nationally recognized hardwood grading standards. The most common grades are Mill-Run (economy grade with variable appearance), Select and Better (standard commercial grade with consistent quality), and FAS - Ultra Premium (highest quality with minimal defects). Higher grades offer straighter boards, fewer defects, and more uniform color. While all grades are equally durable, higher grades are also easier to install (fewer cuts around defects), deliver a cleaner finished look, and have fewer potential points of failure at knots or irregularities — so the benefits go beyond just appearance.

Question 2

How long does Ipe wood last?

Accepted Answer

Ipe can last up to 75 years outdoors with minimal maintenance. Its natural density and oils make it resistant to rot, decay, insects, and weathering.

Question 3

How much does Ipe cost per linear foot?

Accepted Answer

Ipe decking starts at ~$5.19/LF for 1x4 boards, with popular sizes like 1x6 at ~$7.50/LF and 5/4x6 at ~$9.38/LF. Wider boards and milled profiles (pregrooved, T&G) cost more. Visit our pricing page for live, up-to-date prices on all sizes.

Question 4

Do I need to seal or stain Ipe wood?

Accepted Answer

No, Ipe does not require sealing or staining for protection. However, if you want to maintain the rich brown color, apply an oil-based finish annually. Important: Always seal the exposed end grain on cut edges to prevent end splitting and checking.

Question 5

How do I install Ipe decking?

Accepted Answer

Ipe requires pre-drilling all screw holes due to its density. Use stainless steel fasteners to prevent corrosion. Hidden fastener systems work well with pre-grooved boards.

Question 6

Is Ipe harvested sustainably?

Accepted Answer

Yes, when sourced responsibly. We work only with suppliers who practice legal, sustainable forestry. We plant 5 trees in Brazil for every order.

Question 7

What shipping options are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer LTL freight delivery to your home or job site, flatbed delivery for large orders, and terminal pickup for cost savings. Most orders ship within 5-10 business days.

Question 8

Can Ipe be used for siding or fencing?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Ipe is excellent for siding, fencing, pergolas, and any outdoor application.

Question 9

How long does shipping take?

Accepted Answer

Standard LTL shipping typically takes 5-10 business days after your order is processed. Expedited options are available.

Question 10

What's the best way to clean Ipe?

Accepted Answer

Use a deck cleaner designed for hardwoods or a simple soap and water solution. For deeper cleaning, a pressure washer on low setting works well.

Question 11

How do you pronounce 'Ipe'?

Accepted Answer

Ipe is pronounced 'E-pay.' It's a Portuguese word, so it's not pronounced the way it's spelled. But don't worry—however you say it, we'll know exactly what you mean.

Question 12

Can Ipe be used around a fire?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ipe is a great wood for use around fire features. Many Ipe products achieve a Class A fire rating, which is the highest fire rating available for building materials and comparable to steel or concrete. This makes Ipe one of the best natural wood options for decks near fire pits or outdoor fireplaces.

Question 13

Can I buy already weathered Ipe?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. Weathered Ipe may be available depending on current inventory. If you're specifically looking for a greyed, pre-weathered appearance, contact us and we can tell you what we currently have available.

Question 14

How do I get Ipe to turn grey / weather naturally?

Accepted Answer

If you want Ipe to naturally turn grey, do not apply any oil or UV finish. Leave it untreated (aside from end-sealing), and it will weather to a silver-grey patina over time from sun exposure. Even after it turns grey, you can usually restore the rich brown color later with proper cleaning and a UV-protective finish.

Question 15

What color variations does Ipe have?

Accepted Answer

Ipe is a natural wood, so color variation is normal and expected. Boards can range from olive brown to deep reddish-brown and can vary from board to board, even within the same shipment. We do our best to provide consistent-looking orders, but we do not color match. If color consistency is very important to you, we recommend ordering extra material so you have more boards to select from during installation.

Question 16

What is the difference between kiln-dried and air-dried Ipe?

Accepted Answer

Air-dried Ipe (16–18% moisture) is ideal for outdoor applications like decking, siding, and fencing. Kiln-dried Ipe (8–12% moisture) is often used for indoor applications, furniture, or environments where tighter moisture control matters. It typically costs more due to the additional processing. If you're unsure which is best for your project, we can help you choose based on your location and application.

Question 17

Does Ipe float or sink in water?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the individual board. Ipe is extremely dense and has a specific gravity that often hovers around or above the density of water. That means some boards may float, and some may sink depending on the piece and its moisture content.

Question 18

Does Ipe get hot in the sun?

Accepted Answer

Yes—like any decking material, Ipe can get hot in direct sunlight. However, Ipe tends to have better heat dissipation than many composite deck boards, and because it's a natural wood, many people find it more comfortable than synthetic materials. Shade, airflow, board color tone, and finish all impact surface temperature.

Question 19

Is Ipe natural wood?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ipe is 100% real wood that comes from real trees. It is not a brand name—it's a type of hardwood that is naturally dense, durable, and well known for outdoor applications.

Question 20

Is Ipe the hardest wood?

Accepted Answer

Ipe is not the hardest wood on Earth, but it is widely considered the hardest wood commonly used for decking. There are harder exotic species, but most aren't practical for decking applications and are often sold for specialty uses like instruments or decorative applications.

Question 21

Is Ipe the same as Ironwood?

Accepted Answer

'Ironwood' is a general term used to describe extremely dense hardwoods. There are multiple species that may be referred to as ironwood, and Ipe is often included in that category due to its density and strength. However, not all 'ironwood' is Ipe—it depends on the specific species.

Question 22

Is Ipe the same as Brazilian Walnut?

Accepted Answer

Yes. 'Brazilian Walnut' is a common trade name used in the United States for Ipe. They are the same wood. 'Ipe' is the more widely recognized name in the hardwood and decking industry.

Question 23

Where is Ipe grown?

Accepted Answer

Ipe grows naturally in Central and South America, primarily in tropical climates. Most Ipe lumber sold in the U.S. comes from Brazil, which is the most common exporting region for commercial Ipe.

Question 24

What does 'Ipe' stand for — is it an abbreviation?

Accepted Answer

'Ipe' is not an abbreviation. It is a Portuguese word commonly used to describe this species. The scientific name is often listed as Handroanthus spp. (historically classified under Tabebuia). In the lumber industry, 'Ipe' is simply the commonly used name.

Question 25

Why is Ipe considered one of the best decking materials?

Accepted Answer

Ipe offers a rare combination of extreme durability (can last up to 75 years, even untreated), high resistance to rot, insects, and weather, low maintenance compared to many wood options, excellent stability and strength, and a naturally beautiful look that can be left to weather grey or maintained with a UV finish. It's a premium hardwood that provides long-term value and performance that other materials often can't match.

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