Ipe Wood

Tabebuia spp. · Central & South America (Brazil, Bolivia, Peru)

Exotic Hardwood

$$$

Janka Hardness

3,680 lbf

Density

69 lbs/ft³

Fire Rating

Class A

Durability

25-75 years

Color

Rich olive-brown to dark chocolate brown

Price Range

$$$

About Ipe

Ipe (pronounced "ee-pay") is widely considered the gold standard in premium hardwood lumber. Also known as Brazilian Walnut or Ironwood, Ipe is one of the densest and hardest commercially available woods in the world. Its extraordinary Janka hardness of 3,680 lbf — nearly three times harder than White Oak — gives it unmatched resistance to dents, scratches, and wear. Ipe's natural oils and extractives make it inherently resistant to rot, decay, mold, insects (including termites), and even fire, earning it a Class A fire rating equivalent to concrete and steel. Ipe has been used for decades on the boardwalks of Atlantic City, Coney Island, and commercial piers worldwide, proving its longevity in the most demanding environments. Whether used for decking, siding, flooring, or heavy construction, Ipe delivers a 25-75 year service life with minimal maintenance.

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Shop Ipe by Application

Ipe Decking

Ipe Siding

Key Characteristics

One of the hardest woods in the world (3,680 lbf Janka)
Class A fire rating — same as concrete and steel
Natural resistance to rot, decay, mold, and insects
Exceptional dimensional stability
Can sink in water due to extreme density
Weathers to silver-gray patina if left untreated
No chemical treatment required
Proven 25-75 year service life

Common Applications

Premium residential and commercial decking
Boardwalks, piers, and docks
Exterior siding and cladding (rainscreen)
Heavy-duty commercial flooring
Marine construction
Outdoor furniture and benches
Bridge decking
Pool surrounds and rooftop decks

Maintenance & Care

Ipe requires virtually no maintenance for structural integrity. It can be left completely untreated and will weather to a beautiful silver-gray patina over decades. To maintain the rich brown color, apply a UV-protective penetrating hardwood oil 1-2 times per year. Clean annually with mild soap and water. Never pressure wash above 1,200 PSI. Ipe will not rot, split, or decay even without any finish applied.