Ipe (2026)
Tabebuia spp. • Central & South America
Exotic Hardwood
$$$
Ipe is one of the hardest and most durable woods available, naturally resistant to rot, decay, insects, and fire.
Key Takeaways
- Ipe has a Janka hardness of 3,680 lbf and density of 69 lbs/ft³.
- Common uses include Premium decking, Boardwalks, Outdoor furniture.
- Color: Rich brown to olive-brown.
- Minimal. Oil or let weather naturally.
Janka Hardness
3,680 lbf
Density
69 lbs/ft³
Moisture
12-14%
Fire Rating
Class A
Durability
Class A - 25+ years
Price Range
$$$
Color Characteristics
Rich brown to olive-brown
Key Characteristics
- •Extremely dense
- •Natural rot resistance
- •Minimal maintenance
- •Ages to silver-gray
- •Excellent stability
- •Fire resistant
- •Sinks in water
- •Very smooth
Common Applications
- •Premium decking
- •Boardwalks
- •Outdoor furniture
- •Siding
- •Marine
- •Commercial installations
- •Bridge decking
- •Outdoor structures
Maintenance Requirements
Minimal. Oil or let weather naturally.
Advantages
- Exceptional durability
- Natural pest resistance
- Low maintenance
- Beautiful
- Fire resistant
- Extremely stable
- Long service life
- Premium quality
Considerations
- Higher cost
- Requires pre-drilling
- Can splinter
- Limited availability
- Dulls tools
- Heavy
- Requires carbide tools
- Darkens significantly
Frequently Asked Questions
Premium decking, Boardwalks, Outdoor furniture, Siding, Marine, Commercial installations, Bridge decking, Outdoor structures.
Ipe has a Janka hardness rating of 3,680 lbf, making it a softer wood suitable for Premium decking, Boardwalks, Outdoor furniture.
Ipe wood is Rich brown to olive-brown. Extremely dense
Minimal. Oil or let weather naturally.
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