Is Ipe decking worth the extra cost over cedar?

Over a 50-year timeframe, yes. One Ipe deck outlasts 2-3 cedar decks, making the total cost comparable. But you need to afford the 2-3x higher upfront investment, and many homeowners move before realizing the full lifespan.

Can a homeowner install Ipe decking themselves?

Ipe is extremely challenging for DIY. At 3,680 Janka hardness, it requires carbide-tipped blades, pre-drilling for every fastener, and the boards are very heavy. Professional installation is strongly recommended.

How long does cedar decking actually last?

Well-maintained cedar decking lasts 15-25 years. Without maintenance, cedar can deteriorate in as few as 8-10 years. Regular sealing every 2-3 years is essential to reach the upper end of cedar's lifespan.

decking

Ipe vs Cedar Decking: Premium vs Classic Wood Comparison (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated July 18, 2026|Sources & methodology

Ipe and cedar represent the two ends of the wood decking spectrum: ultra-premium exotic hardwood versus classic domestic softwood. Ipe delivers unmatched longevity, while cedar offers natural beauty at a more accessible price. This comparison helps you understand what you get for the significant price difference between these two popular decking woods.

Ipe

Cedar

Key Takeaways

Ipe and cedar represent the two ends of the wood decking spectrum: ultra-premium exotic hardwood versus classic domestic softwood.
Ipe delivers unmatched longevity, while cedar offers natural beauty at a more accessible price.
This comparison helps you understand what you get for the significant price difference between these two popular decking woods.
Ipe is the buy-it-once choice; cedar is the enjoy-it-now choice.
Over 50 years, Ipe costs less (one deck vs 2-3 cedar decks), but the upfront investment is 2-3x higher.

Property	Ipe	Cedar
Price/Linear Ft	$4-$8	$2-$5
Janka Hardness	3,680 lbf	350 lbf
Lifespan	40-75 years	15-25 years
Rot Resistance	Exceptional	Good
Maintenance	Optional UV oil	Seal every 2-3 years
Installation	Very difficult	Easy
Weight	Very heavy	Light

Ipe

Pros

Longest lasting natural decking, Hardest commercially available wood, Virtually maintenance-free structurally, 40-75 year lifespan

Cons

2-3x more expensive, Extremely difficult to work with, Very heavy boards, Pre-drilling required for all fasteners

Cedar

Pros

Beautiful and aromatic, Easy to work with, More affordable, Naturally rot resistant for a softwood

Cons

Much shorter lifespan, Soft surface scratches easily, Requires regular sealing, Will need replacement 2-3 times in Ipe's lifespan

Best Use Cases

Choose Ipe for a once-in-a-lifetime deck that will outlast you. Choose cedar for a beautiful, affordable deck that you plan to enjoy for 15-25 years.

Verdict

Ipe is the buy-it-once choice; cedar is the enjoy-it-now choice. Over 50 years, Ipe costs less (one deck vs 2-3 cedar decks), but the upfront investment is 2-3x higher. Cedar is the right answer for most homeowners on a budget.