Is Massaranduba as durable as Ipe?

Nearly. Massaranduba's Janka hardness of 3,190 lbf is close to Ipe's 3,680 lbf, and both are Class 1 durable. Massaranduba's slightly lower density means a somewhat shorter lifespan of 25-40 years versus Ipe's 40-75 years.

What color is Massaranduba decking?

Massaranduba has a deep reddish-brown color, earning it the name Brazilian Redwood. It's distinctly different from Ipe's olive-brown tones and appeals to those who prefer a warmer, redder deck.

Does Massaranduba require the same maintenance as Ipe?

Yes, both species require similar maintenance. Without UV-protective oil, both will gray to silver. Annual oiling preserves the original color. Both require pre-drilling for fasteners.

Ipe vs Massaranduba wood grain comparison

decking

Ipe vs Massaranduba Decking: Brazilian Hardwood Comparison (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated July 6, 2026|Sources & methodology

Ipe and Massaranduba are both premium Brazilian hardwoods used for high-end decking. While Ipe gets most of the attention, Massaranduba (also called Brazilian Redwood) offers comparable durability at a lower price. This comparison examines how these two South American powerhouses stack up for decking applications.

Ipe

Massaranduba

Key Takeaways

Ipe and Massaranduba are both premium Brazilian hardwoods used for high-end decking.
While Ipe gets most of the attention, Massaranduba (also called Brazilian Redwood) offers comparable durability at a lower price.
This comparison examines how these two South American powerhouses stack up for decking applications.
Massaranduba is the best value in premium exotic decking, offering 90% of Ipe's performance at 60-70% of the price.
Ipe remains the king for those who want the proven best regardless of cost.

Property	Ipe	Massaranduba
Price/Linear Ft	$4-$8	$3-$5
Janka Hardness	3,680 lbf	3,190 lbf
Color	Olive-brown	Deep reddish-brown
Lifespan	40-75 years	25-40 years
Rot Resistance	Class 1 - exceptional	Class 1
Workability	Very difficult	Difficult
Availability	Good	Moderate

Ipe

Pros

Hardest commercial decking wood, Longest proven lifespan, Best-known exotic species, Widest availability in exotics

Cons

Most expensive exotic option, Extremely hard to work, Very heavy boards, Pre-drilling mandatory

Massaranduba

Pros

Beautiful deep red color, Nearly as hard as Ipe, 25-40% less expensive, Excellent Class 1 durability

Cons

Less known than Ipe, Can bleed tannins, Harder to source, Fewer long-term track record studies

Best Use Cases

Choose Ipe for the absolute best in proven exotic decking performance. Choose Massaranduba for near-Ipe performance with a distinctive reddish color at a significantly lower price.

Verdict

Massaranduba is the best value in premium exotic decking, offering 90% of Ipe's performance at 60-70% of the price. Ipe remains the king for those who want the proven best regardless of cost.