Tongue and groove Ipe installation
Seamless Interlocking Profile

Tongue & Groove Hardwood Boards

Ipe Tongue & Groove boards are milled with a tongue on one edge and a matching groove on the other, allowing boards to interlock for a tight, seamless fit. Perfect for exterior siding, soffits, covered ceilings, and outdoor flooring where Ipe's legendary durability meets a refined appearance. Also available in Cumaru, Tigerwood, and Garapa.Installation guide • Acclimation tips.

Seamless Fit - Interlocking profile reduces visible gaps

Versatile - Siding, soffit, ceilings, flooring

Available by Species & Grade with live pricing

What is Tongue & Groove Hardwood?

Ipe Tongue & Groove boards combine the legendary durability of Ipe wood with an interlocking profile that creates a tight, seamless fit. Resources from NC State Wood Products Extension confirm interlocking profiles improve moisture management in covered exterior applications. Each board is precision-milled so the tongue of one board fits perfectly into the groove of the next, minimizing visible spacing and delivering a refined, finished appearance. T&G Ipe is ideal for exterior siding, soffit applications, covered ceilings, porches, and outdoor flooring where Ipe's extreme hardness and dimensional stability provide lasting beauty.

Important note: For exterior siding applications, T&G provides excellent weather protection. For ceilings and flooring, T&G is best for covered or protected installations where proper ventilation and acclimation are used. See our installation guide for complete details.

Why Choose Ipe Tongue & Groove

Ipe T&G combines ironwood durability with a seamless interlocking profile for covered installations.

Clean, Seamless Look

Interlocking boards create a tight fit with minimal visible spacing and no visible fasteners

Multiple Applications

Ideal for exterior siding, soffits, covered ceilings, porches, and outdoor flooring

Ipe Durability

Class A fire rating, insect resistance, and 50+ year lifespan

Other Species Available

Also available in Cumaru, Tigerwood, and Garapa

Live Pricing

Select grade and length with instant pricing updates

T&G Applications

Exterior Siding

Tongue & Groove Ipe creates stunning, weather-resistant exterior siding. The interlocking profile provides superior water drainage and prevents moisture intrusion. Perfect for modern or traditional architecture.

Soffit & Eaves

T&G boards create elegant soffit installations with a clean, finished look. The tight-fitting profile ensures proper ventilation while protecting your home's underside from weather and pests.

Covered Ceilings

Create stunning covered porch and patio ceilings. The seamless appearance eliminates visible fasteners while Ipe's natural beauty adds warmth. Must be used in covered areas only to prevent water accumulation.

Outdoor Flooring

T&G boards create beautiful covered deck and porch flooring. The interlocking profile provides a smooth, seamless surface that's perfect for barefoot walking. Ideal for covered outdoor living spaces.

Shop Tongue & Groove

Browse our inventory of premium Tongue & Groove boards for siding, soffit, ceilings, and flooring.

Installation Specifications

Common T&G Sizes

1x4 Tongue & Groove

Popular for siding, soffit, and standard ceilings

1x6 Tongue & Groove

Ideal for larger siding areas, flooring, high ceilings

5/4 x 4 or 5/4 x 6

Thicker profile for heavy-duty flooring and siding

Custom Sizes Available

We can mill to your exact specifications

1

Pre-Drill All Fastener Holes

Ipe's density requires pre-drilling to prevent splitting. Blind nail through the tongue at a 45° angle.

2

Use Stainless Steel Fasteners

Only stainless steel (304 or 316) or coated fasteners. Use finish nails or trim-head screws.

3

Allow for Proper Ventilation

Ensure adequate airflow above and below the ceiling. Leave appropriate gaps at edges for expansion.

4

Acclimate 7-14 Days Minimum

Stack boards with spacers in a covered area similar to where they'll be installed.

Important: Application Considerations

For Exterior Siding: T&G provides excellent weather protection when installed vertically or horizontally with proper drainage.

For Ceilings & Flooring: Use only in covered areas. Direct rain exposure can cause water to accumulate in grooves, leading to buckling, swelling, and cupping.

Common Questions

Can I use T&G Ipe for exterior siding?

Yes! T&G Ipe makes excellent exterior siding when installed properly with drainage. The interlocking profile provides superior weather protection and a seamless appearance.

How much does T&G Ipe cost?

T&G Ipe typically ranges from $10-15 per linear foot depending on size, grade, and quantity. Contact us for an exact quote based on your project specifications.

Do I need to seal or stain T&G Ipe?

No sealing is required for protection. Ipe is naturally durable. However, you can apply penetrating oil if you want to maintain the rich brown color instead of allowing it to gray naturally.

Can I use T&G for uncovered applications?

Exterior siding: Yes. Ceilings and flooring: No, must be covered. T&G grooves can trap water in uncovered horizontal applications, but work great for vertical siding.

Ready to Create a Stunning T&G Installation?

Whether you need help selecting the right grade, length, or determining if Tongue & Groove Ipe is the best profile for your covered deck, porch, or ceiling—our team is here to guide you.