Ipe
Ipe is the benchmark for exterior decking — naturally resistant to rot, insects, and fire, it outlasts pressure-treated lumber by decades. The trade-off is brutal workability: you'll burn through carbide bits, you must pre-drill every fastener hole, and the natural oils prevent adhesives and finishes from curing without a solvent wipe first. For decks left to weather naturally, it turns a dignified silver-grey but stays structurally sound for 25+ years. Treat it like concrete with wood grain.
- Not pre-drilling every fastener hole — the wood will split without exception
- Skipping the acetone wipe before finishing — oils block adhesion
- Using standard HSS drill bits — switch to carbide or step-down bits
- Expecting smooth indoor workability — this is an exterior structural material
Heartwood ranges from dark olive-brown to near-black, sometimes with a reddish or yellowish cast. Sapwood is pale tan. Color deepens and greens out with age; weathers to silver-grey without finish.
Extremely hard and dense — blunts carbide quickly, destroys HSS. Pre-drilling is mandatory. Natural oils interfere with adhesives and film finishes: wipe with acetone before gluing or applying any finish. Ideal for outdoor/structural applications where longevity outweighs workability.
| Region | Availability |
|---|---|
| North America | Specialty importers only |
| Europe | Specialty importers only |
| South America | Widely available |
| Australia/NZ | Specialty importers only |
| Asia | Specialty importers only |
| Africa | Specialty importers only |