Ipe (pronounced "EE-pay"), also known as Brazilian Walnut, is the premier decking and exterior wood in the world. With a Janka hardness of 3,680 lbf — harder than concrete — Ipe delivers extraordinary durability, natural beauty, and a lifespan measured in decades, not years. It's the wood you'll find on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Coney Island, and luxury residential projects across the country.
Color & Appearance
Freshly milled Ipe ranges from olive-brown to rich chocolate-brown with occasional darker veining. The grain is tight, interlocked, and produces a smooth, almost polished surface when properly sanded. Over time, unfinished Ipe weathers to a distinguished silver-gray patina. Annual application of UV-blocking oil preserves the original warm tones.
Nominal Sizes and Milling Styles
| 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 decking |
| 5/4x6 | S4S (Square Edge) | 5.5" | 5.5" | Docks / commercial walkways |
- 1x6 Pre-Grooved Decking: Our standard residential Ipe profile. Pre-milled grooves on both edges accept hidden deck clips for a fastener-free surface. 5.5-inch exposed face. Standard lengths 8'–20'.
- 1x6 S4S (Square Edge): Traditional face-screw decking. 5.5-inch exposed face. Ideal for stair treads, perimeter boards, and any area where hidden clips cannot be used.
- 1x6 Tongue & Groove: Precision-milled T&G for covered porches and interior use only — not for exposed decks. Water trapped in the groove will freeze, swell, and buckle. 5.0-inch exposed face.
- 1x4 S4S Decking: The classic Northeastern architectural profile, providing a refined, linear aesthetic highly sought after in custom home building. 3.5-inch exposed face.
- 1x4 Tongue & Groove: Precision-milled for covered porch flooring. 3.0-inch exposed face.
- 5/4x6 Pre-Grooved: Heavy-duty commercial and extreme-load profile; many builders and homeowners also choose it for residential decks. Pre-milled grooves for hidden clip installation. 5.5-inch exposed face. Standard lengths 8'–20'.
- 5/4x6 S4S (Square Edge): Heavy-duty face-screw profile for dock planking and high-traffic commercial walkways. 5.5-inch exposed face.
We can source additional Ipe dimensions and profiles beyond those listed — contact us for availability.
Performance Specifications
| Janka Hardness | 3,680 lbf (hardest commercial decking species) |
|---|---|
| Density | ~69 lbs/cu. ft. (Ipe will sink in water) |
| Durability Class | Class 1 — naturally resistant to rot, decay, termites, and marine borers |
| Fire Rating | Class A (ASTM E84) — approved for WUI zones |
| Expected Lifespan | 40–75 years in ground contact; indefinite above-grade |
| Grading | Premium Grade — virtually free of knots and sapwood |
Fastening Ecosystem
Ipe's density requires specialized fasteners — pre-drilling is mandatory, and only stainless steel hardware should touch the wood. We supply everything you need; just tell us the profile.
- Hidden Clips (Pre-Grooved profiles): Ipe Clip 175-count Complete Kit covers 100 sq. ft. at 16" o.c. — 5/32" gap, brown finish.
- Face Screws (S4S / Square Edge): #7 × 2-1/4" trim-head stainless. One 350-count box per 100 sq. ft.
- Smart-Bit Pre-Drill & Countersink: #7 (flush) or #8 (countersunk). One per box of screws.
- Pro Plug System (optional, for hidden face screws): 5/16" species-matched plugs with Pro Plug tool.
- End Seal: Wax-based sealer applied immediately to every cut end to prevent checking.
Not sure what you need? Give us a call — we'll spec the hardware to match your deck.
