Decking

Tropical hardwood decking outperforms every composite and treated-lumber alternative on the market. Ipe, Cumaru, and Garapa deliver unmatched density, natural rot resistance, and a lifespan that stretches well beyond 40 years with minimal maintenance.

Ipe

Ipe is the gold standard for exterior decking. With a Janka hardness rating of approximately 3,680 lbf, it is one of the hardest commercially available woods in the world. Ipe carries a Class A fire rating (ASTM E84), making it approved for use in wildfire-prone zones and commercial applications where fire codes restrict material choices.

Freshly milled Ipe ranges from olive-brown to dark chocolate, and it weathers to a silver-gray patina if left untreated. Periodic application of UV-protective oil maintains the original color. Ipe is naturally resistant to rot, mold, termites, and marine borers—no chemical treatment is required.

We stock Ipe decking in 1x6 (3/4" x 5-1/2", 5.5" exposed face) — our standard residential profile — in both pre-grooved and square-edge. We also carry 1x4 (3/4" x 3-1/2", 3.5" exposed face), the classic Northeastern architectural profile that provides a refined, linear aesthetic highly sought after in custom home building. For heavy-duty commercial and extreme-load applications, we stock 5/4x6 (1" x 5-1/2") in pre-grooved and square-edge. Lengths range from 6' to 20', with most orders shipping in random lengths of 8' and longer.

Cumaru

Cumaru offers a similar performance profile to Ipe at a lower price point. Its Janka hardness of approximately 3,540 lbf puts it just below Ipe, and it shares much of the same natural durability. The heartwood is a warm reddish-brown with occasional golden streaks, and it weathers to gray like all tropical hardwoods when left unsealed.

Cumaru is an excellent choice for residential decks, pool surrounds, and boardwalks where the budget doesn't quite allow for Ipe but composite is off the table. Available in 1x6 (5.5" exposed face), 1x4 (3.5" exposed face), and 5/4x6 profiles in pre-grooved and square-edge.

Garapa

Garapa is the lightest-toned tropical hardwood we carry. Its golden-yellow color is a popular choice for homeowners who want a warm, honey-toned deck rather than the darker hues of Ipe or Cumaru. The Janka hardness is around 1,620 lbf—softer than Ipe but still significantly harder than domestic species like cedar (350 lbf) or pressure-treated pine (690 lbf).

Garapa is naturally resistant to decay and insects. It accepts oil finishes readily and holds its golden tone well with annual maintenance. Stocked in 1x6 (5.5" exposed face), 1x4 (3.5" exposed face), and 5/4x6 profiles.

Tropical Species Comparison

Species	Janka Hardness	Density (lb/ft³)	Color	Fire Rating
Ipe	3,680 lbf	69	Olive-brown to dark chocolate	Class A
Cumaru	3,540 lbf	67	Reddish-brown with gold streaks	Class A
Garapa	1,620 lbf	52	Golden yellow	Class A/B*

*Garapa fire rating varies between Class A and Class B depending on localized testing methodology and specific board density. Verify with your local building authority for WUI zone compliance.

Dimensional Reference

Always calculate your linear footage requirements using the exposed face width, not the nominal size. The milling of tongue-and-groove profiles reduces the usable face of each board.

Nominal	Milling	Actual Width	Exposed Face	Application
1x6	S4S / Pre-Grooved	5.5"	5.5"	Exterior open-air decking
1x6	Tongue & Groove	5.5"	5.0"	Covered porches / ceilings
1x4	S4S	3.5"	3.5"	Decking / trim
1x4	Tongue & Groove	3.5"	3.0"	Covered porch flooring
5/4x6	Pre-Grooved	5.5"	5.5"	Heavy-duty / commercial
5/4x6	S4S (Square Edge)	5.5"	5.5"	Docks / commercial walkways

Stair Construction

Building code-compliant stairs requires precise board combinations. Use only S4S (square edge) boards for stairs — hidden clips cannot be used on stair treads due to the lack of continuous joist support and the exposure of board edges.

Component	Material	Per Step	Result
Tread (Run)	2 pcs — 1x6 S4S	2 boards	5.5" + 5.5" = ~11" tread depth (meets code)
Riser (Vertical)	2 pcs — 1x4 S4S	2 boards	3.5" + 3.5" = 7.0" riser height (meets code)

Standard 1x6 boards are more than structurally sufficient for stair treads — 5/4 thickness is not required unless specifically requested. All stair components must be face-fastened with stainless steel screws using a Pro Plug or Smart-Bit system.

Decking Shorts Program

Building expansive stairs, walkways, or dock ramps? Ask about our specialized 4-foot and 6-foot shorts program. Mills generate these short pieces as byproducts of defecting longer boards, and they are sold at a significant discount per linear foot. Using premium shorts for your stair treads and risers dramatically reduces job-site waste and lowers the overall cost of your material package without compromising grade or durability.

Site Storage & Acclimation

Specialty & Exotic Decking

Beyond our three core tropical species, we can source Tigerwood (Muiracatiara), Massaranduba, and Machiche for projects that call for something unique. These species are available on a special-order basis with lead times of 2–4 weeks depending on availability. Contact us for current pricing and stock.