Ipe (also know as Brazilian walnut, Pao Lope or Ironwood) is one of the densest and hardest woods available.

Ipe has a natural, rich, dark brown color and left unstained it will gradually age to a lighter brown with gray overtones. However, Ipe can be stained to retain its rich, dark brown color or it can be stained to give it a glossier finish. No matter how you choose to finish your deck, Ipe requires no chemical preservatives to keep it smooth and splinter free and its naturally safe.

Ipe has a fire rating of Class A, the same as concrete or steel.

The timber has been tested by the US Navy in a Panama Canal study from 1962 showing Ipe to be one of the top performers in resistance to decay, termites, and borers.

Brazilian Walnut is also a very low maintenance wood, so you won't waste valuable time keeping it in good condition.

Other Benefits of IPE Decking
  • Knot free
  • Decay and termite resistant
  • Due to the density of the wood, it will not cup, bow, or twist like treated pine.
  • Durability rating of 25 years plus by the U.S. Forest Products Lab.
  • NFPA UBC I fire rating—same as steel and concrete!
  • Competitively priced as compared to cedar, redwood, or composite decking (TREX).
Ipe is now used on the Atlantic City boardwalk because it is so resistant to weather and traffic.

And, with Ipe comparably priced to softwoods and composite decking, it is clearly the finest choice for your decking material.

 
Ipe
Composite
Maintenance
Low Low
Sun Spotting
No Yes
Brittle in Winter:
No Yes
Direct Sunlight
Remains moderate Becomes too hot for bare feet
Price:
Competitive Competitive
Density
Very High Moderate
Splinters
None None
Stains?
None Stains easily, hard to remove
Density
Very High Moderate
Mold Spots?
No Yes
Beautiful Natural Look
Yes No