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Ipe Decking



Iron Woods® Ipe Decking sets the standard for residential & commercial hardwood decking products. Recognized for its rich dark walnut color and covered by a 25-year warranty, Iron Woods® Ipe Decking is the gold standard of naturally durable hardwoods—no matter how hot the summer, no matter how brutal the winter.

Premium Grade
100% clear all heartwood and graded for appearance on the face, back, and edges. Unsound milling defects not allowed.

Availability
Available as decking 5/4 & 1 in. thick and 4 to 12 in. wide. See full availability details.

Warranty
Backed by a 25-year limited warranty. Read Iron Woods IPE warranty.




FEATURES & BENEFITS

Why Choose Ipe Decking?


NATURALLY DURABLE

Iron Woods Ipe resists decay, termites, and borers, pretty much anything you can throw at it.

SOURCING CERTAINTY

Green by Nature, our complete supply chain traceability system provides sourcing certainty all the way up our supply chain, from the forest to you.

UNPARALLELED BEAUTY

Weather naturally to an attractive silver gray or maintain the natural rich brown color by cleaning and refinishing. Or both. Your choice.

Stands Up to the Elements

Iron Woods® Ipe Decking stands up to the elements year-round – from heat and humidity to salt water spray and brutal winters.

Premium Grade

100% Heartwood. 100% clear. No visible defects and grading on all faces and edges allows for any face selection you choose.

World-renowned Quality

The only thing they don’t gamble on in Atlantic City is the wood they use to rebuild the Boardwalk. Since 1971, Iron Woods® has supplied every deck board.

NATURALLY DURABLE

Iron Woods Ipe resists decay, termites, and borers, pretty much anything you can throw at it.

SOURCING CERTAINTY

Green by Nature, our complete supply chain traceability system provides sourcing certainty all the way up our supply chain, from the forest to you.

UNPARALLELED BEAUTY

Weather naturally to an attractive silver gray or maintain the natural rich brown color by cleaning and refinishing. Or both. Your choice.

Stands Up to the Elements

Iron Woods® Ipe Decking stands up to the elements year-round – from heat and humidity to salt water spray and brutal winters.

Premium Grade

100% Heartwood. 100% clear. No visible defects and grading on all faces and edges allows for any face selection you choose.

World-renowned Quality

The only thing they don’t gamble on in Atlantic City is the wood they use to rebuild the Boardwalk. Since 1971, Iron Woods® has supplied every deck board.



FEATURES & BENEFITS

Why Choose Ipe Decking?


NATURALLY DURABLE

Iron Woods Ipe resists decay, termites, and borers, pretty much anything you can throw at it.

SOURCING CERTAINTY

Green by Nature, our complete supply chain traceability system provides sourcing certainty all the way up our supply chain, from the forest to you.

UNPARALLELED BEAUTY

Weather naturally to an attractive silver gray or maintain the natural rich brown color by cleaning and refinishing. Or both. Your choice.

Stands Up to the Elements

Iron Woods® Ipe Decking stands up to the elements year-round – from heat and humidity to salt water spray and brutal winters.

Premium Grade

100% Heartwood. 100% clear. No visible defects and grading on all faces and edges allows for any face selection you choose.

World-renowned Quality

The only thing they don’t gamble on in Atlantic City is the wood they use to rebuild the Boardwalk. Since 1971, Iron Woods® has supplied every deck board.

NATURALLY DURABLE

Iron Woods Ipe resists decay, termites, and borers, pretty much anything you can throw at it.

SOURCING CERTAINTY

Green by Nature, our complete supply chain traceability system provides sourcing certainty all the way up our supply chain, from the forest to you.

UNPARALLELED BEAUTY

Weather naturally to an attractive silver gray or maintain the natural rich brown color by cleaning and refinishing. Or both. Your choice.

Stands Up to the Elements

Iron Woods® Ipe Decking stands up to the elements year-round – from heat and humidity to salt water spray and brutal winters.

Premium Grade

100% Heartwood. 100% clear. No visible defects and grading on all faces and edges allows for any face selection you choose.

World-renowned Quality

The only thing they don’t gamble on in Atlantic City is the wood they use to rebuild the Boardwalk. Since 1971, Iron Woods® has supplied every deck board.



Unrivaled strength. Unparalleled beauty. Natural resistance to decay.



Your next project begins with Iron Woods. Let’s get started.

Tell us what you’re looking for.


Your next project begins
with Iron Woods.



Technical Details


Our technical support is unmatched in the industry. Have a question? We’re here to help. Always.


Storage & HandlingSpans & SpacingDeck VentilationFinishingBest Practices
Storage & Handling
  • Iron Woods® Ipe decking is supplied as partially dried or kiln-dried lumber.
  • Store wood out of direct sunlight and allow it to acclimate and stabilize to the installation area’s humidity before installing.
  • Some air-dried boards may show marks from sticker or breather strips. Generally these marks and watermarks blend in when the sealer is applied. If still visible, they will dissipate during the next year as the deck fades.
  • We recommend carbide-tipped saw blades and high-quality drills for smooth cuts.

Spans & Spacing

These spans are designed for Ipe to allow for minimal deflection of the deck surface. Contact us for maximum spans and engineering data. 

 

Load Size
Board Size 40psf 60psf 100psf
1×4, 1×6 32″ 28″ 24″
5/4×4, 5/4×6 42″ 38″ 32″
2×4, 2×6, 2×8 62″ 56″ 48″
  • Allow 1/8″ gap between deck boards for drainage and airflow. 
  • Install end-to-end butt joints without a gap. 
  • Decking may shrink approximately 1/16″ on 4″ wide and 1/8″ on 6″ wide decking. 
  • In hot or dry areas, you may experience additional shrinkage. 

Deck Ventilation
  • For long-term stability and to minimize cupping, adequate ventilation of the deck is essential. 
  • Proper air ventilation allows air to flow in from outside the deck area, under the joists, and up through the gaps between the deck boards.

Finishing
  • Seal all ends immediately after cutting with Anchorseal clear wax end sealer (available from your Iron Woods® dealer) in order to reduce end checking. 
  • To maintain a rich walnut color, use a transparent penetrating oil-based sealer with UV inhibitors in a trans-oxide pigmented “tone” and reapply annually or as needed. 
  • If you prefer a silvery-gray appearance, use a clear oil-based sealer for the first coat and then simply let the wood weather to its natural gray color.
  • If you want to return silver-gray wood to the original color, use a “wood brightener.” Careful power washing and/or sanding can help to remove the grayed wood. 

Best Practices
  • Download a more in-depth, printer-friendly PDF Best Practices Guide
  • Click the link to open/download the PDF in most browsers. You can also right-click and choose to Save Link As.


Technical Details


Our technical support is unmatched in the industry. Have a question? We’re here to help. Always.


Storage & HandlingSpans & SpacingDeck VentilationFinishingBest Practices
Storage & Handling
  • Iron Woods® Ipe decking is supplied as partially dried or kiln-dried lumber.
  • Store wood out of direct sunlight and allow it to acclimate and stabilize to the installation area’s humidity before installing.
  • Some air-dried boards may show marks from sticker or breather strips. Generally these marks and watermarks blend in when the sealer is applied. If still visible, they will dissipate during the next year as the deck fades.
  • We recommend carbide-tipped saw blades and high-quality drills for smooth cuts.
Spans & Spacing

These spans are designed for Ipe to allow for minimal deflection of the deck surface. Contact us for maximum spans and engineering data. 

 

Load Size
Board Size 40psf 60psf 100psf
1×4, 1×6 32″ 28″ 24″
5/4×4, 5/4×6 42″ 38″ 32″
2×4, 2×6, 2×8 62″ 56″ 48″
  • Allow 1/8″ gap between deck boards for drainage and airflow. 
  • Install end-to-end butt joints without a gap. 
  • Decking may shrink approximately 1/16″ on 4″ wide and 1/8″ on 6″ wide decking. 
  • In hot or dry areas, you may experience additional shrinkage. 
Deck Ventilation
  • For long-term stability and to minimize cupping, adequate ventilation of the deck is essential. 
  • Proper air ventilation allows air to flow in from outside the deck area, under the joists, and up through the gaps between the deck boards.
Finishing
  • Seal all ends immediately after cutting with Anchorseal clear wax end sealer (available from your Iron Woods® dealer) in order to reduce end checking. 
  • To maintain a rich walnut color, use a transparent penetrating oil-based sealer with UV inhibitors in a trans-oxide pigmented “tone” and reapply annually or as needed. 
  • If you prefer a silvery-gray appearance, use a clear oil-based sealer for the first coat and then simply let the wood weather to its natural gray color.
  •  If you want to return silver-gray wood to the original color, use a “wood brightener.” Careful power washing and/or sanding can help to remove the grayed wood. 
Best Practices
  • Download a more in-depth, printer-friendly PDF Best Practices Guide
  • Click the link to open/download the PDF in most browsers. You can also right-click and choose to Save Link As.


Need to Know

Product Availability



Decking & Boards — Premium KD



Nominal SizeActual SizeProfilesLengths
1 x 4 KD3/4" x 3-1/2"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
1 x 4 KD3/4" x 3-1/2"GROOVED8′-20’ EVEN
1 x 4 KD3/4" x 3-1/2"T&G8′-20’ EVEN
1 x 6 KD3/4" x 5-1/2"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
1 x 8 KD3/4" x 7-1/4"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
1 x 10 KD3/4" x 9-1/4"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
1 x 12 KD3/4" x 11-1/4"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
5/4 x 4 KD1" x 3-1/2"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
5/4 x 4 KD1" x 3-1/2"GROOVED8′-20’ EVEN
5/4 x 6 KD1" x 5-1/2"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
5/4 x 6 KD1" x 5-1/2"GROOVED8′-20’ EVEN
5/4 x 8 KD1" x 7-1/4"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
5/4 x 10 KD1" x 9-1/4"S4S8′-20’ EVEN
5/4 x 12 KD1" x 11-1/4"S4S8′-20’ EVEN




PRODUCT COMPARISON


Which wood is right for you?



 
Type
Maintenance
Decay Resistance
Termite Resistance
Strength
Movement in Service
Fire Rating Class
Weight per cu. ft.
Bending Strength (in psi)
E-modulus
Shear Strength
Hardness




Got a question about Ipe?


We’ve got the answers.



From durability and sustainability to maintenance and cost, we tell you everything you need to know about Ipe.



What is Ipe decking made out of?

Ipe decking is made from a tree species native to Central and South America called Tabebuia serratifolia. Ipe is known for its density, durability, and resistance to decay and insects.

Is Ipe decking durable?

Yes, Ipe decking is highly durable and long-lasting due to its dense and hard characteristics. Ipe wood is one of the densest and hardest woods available, making it extremely resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage. It also has natural oils that help to protect it from moisture and other weathering elements.

How long does Ipe decking last?

Ipe decking can last up to 50 years or more with proper installation, maintenance, and care. It is also highly resistant to scratches and dents, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.

In addition to its durability, Ipe decking is also low maintenance and has an attractive natural appearance that enhances the beauty of outdoor spaces. It has a rich brown color that can be left natural or enhanced with a sealer or stain.

What are the benefits of using Ipe for decking?

Ipe decking is highly durable and resistant to rot, decay, and insects, making it a long-lasting and low-maintenance option for outdoor decking. Because it’s highly resistant to scratches, spills, and stains, it’s a popular choice for high-traffic areas. Additionally, Ipe has a beautiful natural grain and color, which can be enhanced with oiling or staining.

What are the color variations of Ipe deck wood decking?

The natural color of freshly cut Ipe is a rich walnut color. As Ipe wood weathers, it may develop a grayish patina. Some people prefer this weathered look, while others prefer to maintain the wood's original color.

What type of maintenance does Ipe decking require?

To maintain the original rich walnut color, use a transparent, penetrating oil-based sealer with UV inhibitors in a trans-oxide pigment tint and reapply annually, or as needed.

If you prefer a natural, silvery-gray appearance, use a clear oil-based sealer for the first coat and then simply let the wood weather to its natural gray color. 

If you want to return silver-gray wood to the original color, use a “wood brightener.” Careful power washing and/or sanding can help to remove the grayed wood.

How does Ipe decking material compare to other types of decking materials?

Compared to other types of decking, such as pressure-treated lumber, composite decking, or cedar, Ipe decking is much more durable and long-lasting. It also has a higher resistance to rot, decay, and insects, and is less likely to splinter or warp over time.

Is Ipe wood resistant to termites and other pests?

Yes, Ipe wood is highly resistant to termites and other pests due to its high density and natural oils. The dense structure of the wood makes it difficult for insects to penetrate, while the natural oils in the wood act as a repellent to many types of insects and pests.

This makes Ipe wood an ideal choice for outdoor projects such as decks, fences, and furniture, which are more susceptible to insect damage due to their exposure to the elements.

What is the cost of Ipe decking compared to other types of decking?

Ipe decking is generally more expensive than other types of decking materials, such as pressure-treated lumber or composite decking. The cost of Ipe decking material can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the wood, the size and shape of the boards, and the location of the supplier. 

However, despite the higher initial cost, Ipe decking material can be a cost-effective option in the long run due to its durability and low-maintenance requirements.

Is Ipe decking material environmentally friendly?

Because it’s harvested from managed forests, Ipe decking material is considered to be a sustainable option. Additionally, Ipe wood is known for its durability, which means that it has a long lifespan and doesn't need to be replaced as often as other decking materials. And when it does need to be replaced, it can be composted because it is all natural and chemical-free.

Can Ipe be used around a fire?

Yes it can. Ipe has the same fire rating as steel or concrete. It is the perfect natural option around a fire.

Can I install Ipe deck boards myself?

Yes, Ipe deck boards can be installed by DIY enthusiasts who have experience with woodworking and basic carpentry skills. However, it is important to note that Ipe wood is dense and heavy, which can make it challenging to work with. It is recommended to use specialized tools and fasteners that are designed for hardwoods to ensure a successful installation.



BETTER TOGETHER


Fastening Systems

We make fastening easy. Iron Woods decking can be installed using the EB-TY Hidden Deck Fastening System, the Starborn Color Matched Pro-Plug System, or Iron Woods Boardwalk and Deck Screws.







Go ahead. Dream a little.

How will you make your corner of the world beautiful? Here are some projects to get you started.





Your next project begins with Iron Woods. Let’s get started.

Tell us what you’re looking for.



Your next project begins with Iron Woods. Let’s get started.

Tell us what you’re looking for.