Ultimate Guide to Cleaning, Maintaining, and Properly Treating Your Tropical Hardwood Decking

A comprehensive guide to preserving the beauty and durability of your exotic tropical hardwood deck for decades to come.

Understanding Tropical Hardwoods

Tropical hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Tigerwood, and Massaranduba are among the toughest woods globally, offering unparalleled durability and longevity. Research from the USDA Forest Products Laboratory confirms their natural resistance to pests, mold, rot, and decay — making them prime choices for decking material.

With rich colors ranging from golden blonde to deep reddish-brown, tropical hardwoods offer charming beauty that enhances any outdoor space. Species like Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Tigerwood, and Massaranduba are known for low maintenance, but proper care is vital to ensure longevity and appeal.

Biggest Mistakes to Avoid

Do not power wash the deck hard! Do not power wash at all if you use our other methods and they work, there is no need. This can damage the deck.

Do not use products to "finish" the deck that are not recommended by us. Some products that can be used with domestic hardwood lumber cannot be used on exotic hardwood lumber.

Common Issue: We also have homeowners who were initially happy with the maintenance of a deck and ended up with a "sticky" or "gunky" deck. There are many mistakes that can be made, but proper maintenance is simple when you follow this guide.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Preparing Your Deck for Cleaning

Clear your deck of furniture and obstacles to access all areas effectively. Sweep away debris and note any mold or mildew for targeted treatment. Consider light sanding for stubborn stains — see our Sanding Guide for techniques. Inspect for cracks or splinters and review our Common Ipe Problems page for troubleshooting.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

Dirt build-up is common, but with the right cleaner, your tropical hardwood deck can regain its shine. Opt for gentle solutions like Messmers Deck Cleaner (messmers.com), OxiClean, or Penofin® Pro-Tech Cleaner (penofin.com) for effective yet safe cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the wood fibers. If you're facing stubborn stains such as oil or grease, Savogran TSP Eco Cleaner is the champion you require for tackling those challenging messes.

Cleaning Techniques

Using a soft-bristled brush, garden sprayer, or sponge, apply the cleaning solution evenly on the deck surface. Scrub gently in circular motions, focusing on trouble spots. Rinse off the cleaner thoroughly and allow the deck to dry completely before applying sealants.

Additional Cleaning Options

Explore alternatives like Murphy's Oil Soap Wood Cleaner (murphyoilsoap.com) or Defy Wood Deck Cleaner (defystain.com) for specialized care. Address mold and mildew with suitable cleaners containing mildewcides, avoiding household bleach that can harm the wood.

Pressure Washing Considerations

While pressure washing can be effective, use caution to avoid damaging the wood. Test on a hidden area first and keep the pressure below 1200 psi. Alternatively, opt for gentler methods like using a shop vac or garden hose. Officially we do not recommend using a pressure washer unless you know what you are doing and as a last resort. It can do more damage than good.

Sealing and Treating Your Deck

Protect your tropical hardwood deck from UV rays and moisture damage by sealing it with a high-quality, oil-based sealer such as Messmers UV Plus for Hardwood (messmers.com) or Ipe Oil® (ipeoil.com). Apply the sealer evenly, allowing it to penetrate the wood before wiping off excess. For more finish options, see our Coating Options page. Treat your deck annually to maintain its rich color and durability.

Restoring Your Hardwood Deck

If your deck shows signs of wear, sanding can revitalize its appearance. Use a power sander with 60-grit to 80-grit sandpaper to remove dirt and stains before applying sealant. See our detailed Sanding Guide for techniques specific to Ipe and tropical hardwoods. Follow manufacturer instructions for best results.

Annual Maintenance for Existing Decks

For an existing deck that is having annual cleaning and maintenance, follow these simple steps:

Clean the deck as described in this guide

Wait for it to FULLY dry (can take days depending on the weather)

Use one of the recommended treatments listed below

New Deck: Initial Maintenance Steps

If you are installing a new deck and doing initial maintenance, you should do the following:

Seal the ends of every board that is not already sealed — we recommend DeckWise Ipe Seal or a similar end-grain sealer

Use UV protection (also known as "Oiling") before installation or immediately after. Products like Messmers UV Plus or Ipe Oil will keep it darker. Otherwise, you can use nothing and let it turn grey.

Ensure the deck is free of debris such as sapwood, leaves, and dirt (you can use a vacuum cleaner or broom). See our Acclimation Guide for proper prep.

Critical Warning: Pressure Washing

Officially we do not recommend using a pressure washer unless you know what you are doing and as a last resort. It can do more damage than good.

If you must pressure wash:

• Test on a hidden area first
• Keep pressure below 1200 psi
• Use a wide spray pattern (not concentrated)
• Keep nozzle at least 12" from surface
• Never hold in one spot

Recommended Treatments & Products

These products are specifically tested and approved for tropical hardwoods (Ipe, Cumaru, Garapa, Tigerwood, Massaranduba). Do not substitute with products designed for domestic hardwoods.

Cleaner

DeckWise Hardwood Deck Cleaner & Brightener

Shop DeckWise Products →

UV Protection / Oil

Messmers U.V. Plus for Hardwood

Shop DeckWise Products →

UV Protection / Oil

Ipe Oil® Hardwood Deck Finish

Shop DeckWise Products →

Cleaner

Penofin® Pro-Tech Cleaner

Visit Penofin →

Heavy-Duty Cleaner

Savogran TSP Eco Cleaner

Visit Savogran →

General Cleaner

OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover

Visit OxiClean →

End Grain Sealer

DeckWise Ipe Seal End Grain Sealer

Shop DeckWise Products →

Cleaner

Defy Wood Deck Cleaner

Visit Defy →

Ipe Woods USA is not affiliated with and does not sell the products listed above. Links are provided for reference only. Always follow manufacturer instructions.

Simple Maintenance Summary

The maintenance of tropical hardwood decking is really quite simple. However, we get calls almost every day from people that have done it wrong. Follow this guide carefully, use only recommended products, and always let the deck fully dry before applying treatments.

Important Legal Notice

To properly maintain your tropical hardwood deck, we strongly recommend having an on-site professional, contractor, or experienced maintenance specialist available. All information on this site is only generalized recommendations.

We are not and will not be held liable for improper maintenance, for any reason, including but not limited to information inaccuracy or improper application of techniques.

Always consult with a qualified professional for all things related to deck maintenance, installation, and care.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your tropical hardwood decking remains a stunning focal point of your outdoor space for years to come. Regular maintenance will not only preserve its beauty but also enhance its longevity, allowing you to enjoy your deck to the fullest.