Ipe (ee-pay) is the hardest and most durable commercially available lumber -- a dense South American hardwood with a 25+ year service life in ground contact without treatment. At 3,684 lbf Janka, harder than most stone. The gold standard for high-end exterior decking and marine applications. Available at Windsor Plywood locations across Canada.
Features
- Ipe -- Olive-brown to dark brown, sometimes nearly black
- Interlocked, fine texture with natural oil grain
- Janka hardness: 3,684 lbf
- Kiln-dried -- confirm surfacing options at your local branch
Specifications
| Species |
Ipe |
| Origin |
South America |
| Janka Hardness |
3,684 lbf |
| Colour |
Olive-brown to dark brown, sometimes nearly black |
| Grain |
Interlocked, fine texture with natural oil |
| Drying |
Kiln-dried |
| Availability |
In-store -- confirm sizes and surfacing options |
Common Uses
Ipe is used for premium decking, boardwalks, dock decking, outdoor furniture, park benches, and any exterior application requiring maximum service life. Confirm available sizes and stock at your local Windsor Plywood location.
Pro Tips
- Extremely dense -- sinks in water. Every fastener hole must be pre-drilled with carbide bits. Standard screws will snap. Use hardwood-specific stainless steel screws. Can be left unfinished outdoors to weather to silver-grey.
- Acclimate lumber in your workspace for 48-72 hours before milling to allow the wood to adjust to ambient temperature and humidity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ipe last?
Documented service life of 25-50+ years in exterior applications including ground contact. Many ipe boardwalks from the 1990s are still in service.
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