Ipe wood decking is known for its unmatched strength, long lifespan, and rich natural beauty, but those same qualities also make it one of the most demanding materials to install correctly. Ipe is extremely dense and naturally oily, which means standard deck screws and generic fasteners often fail during installation. Stripped heads, snapped screws, surface staining, and cracked boards are common problems when the wrong products are used.

If you’re investing in an Ipe deck, choosing the right fasteners is just as important as selecting high-quality lumber. The correct fastening system not only makes installation easier, but also ensures your deck remains secure, stable, and attractive for decades. For U.S. buyers, ABSWood has become a trusted source for both premium Ipe decking and the fasteners specifically engineered to work with it. Our product lineup includes stainless steel screws, hidden fastener systems, plug kits, and specialty hardware designed for dense tropical hardwoods. Our hardwood holds fasteners better and outlasts pressure-treated lumber in saltwater

Because Ipe behaves very differently from pressure-treated lumber or composite decking, fastener choice matters more than many homeowners realize. Its hardness puts tremendous stress on screws during installation, and its natural oils can accelerate corrosion in lower-quality metals. Without proper pre-drilling and the right fasteners, boards are more likely to split, screws can break mid-install, and visible staining may appear around the fastener heads over time. Ipe also expands and contracts with seasonal moisture changes, so the fastening system must allow for controlled movement to prevent cupping or warping.

This is where specialized fasteners make a noticeable difference. ABSWood focuses specifically on hardwood decking applications, which means the fasteners we carry are designed to meet the demands of Ipe rather than generic decking materials.

For projects that use traditional face-fastening, high-quality stainless steel deck screws remain one of the most reliable options. When installing Ipe, stainless steel is essential, particularly grades 305 or 316. In coastal or high-humidity environments, 316 stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance and helps prevent rust staining on the surface of the boards. Screws designed with a Type 17 tip penetrate dense hardwood more easily, while a star or Torx drive significantly reduces cam-out and stripped heads during installation.

ABSWood carries DeckWise® stainless steel deck screws, which are widely regarded as one of the most dependable choices for hardwood decking. These screws are engineered specifically for dense species like Ipe and are built to last as long as the deck itself.

For homeowners or builders who want a clean, modern surface without visible screws, hidden fastener systems are an excellent solution—provided the decking is properly grooved. Among the most trusted options for Ipe is the Ipe Clip® hidden fastener system. These clips are designed to grip dense hardwood securely while maintaining consistent board spacing and allowing natural expansion and contraction. The combination of a stainless steel insert and a UV-resistant polymer body gives them the strength needed for hardwood while holding up to long-term outdoor exposure.

When installed correctly, Ipe Clip® systems create a smooth, screw-free deck surface that highlights the natural grain of the wood. ABSWood supplies multiple variations of the Ipe Clip® system, including Extreme and ExtremeKD, making it easy to match the fasteners to your specific deck design. Ordering clips and decking together also ensures compatibility and simplifies the build process.

Some installers prefer the strength and security of face-fastening but still want a flawless finished appearance. In those cases, plug systems provide an ideal balance. The Starborn Pro Plug® System for hardwood allows screws to be countersunk and concealed with real Ipe wood plugs that blend seamlessly into the surrounding grain. Once installed and glued, the fasteners virtually disappear, leaving a smooth, uninterrupted deck surface.

ABSWood offers Pro Plug® kits that can be matched directly to your Ipe decking, ensuring consistent color and grain. This approach delivers exceptional holding power while maintaining the refined look many homeowners want from a high-end hardwood deck.

For decks built on steel or aluminum framing, specialized fasteners are required to penetrate both metal and hardwood effectively. DeckWise® metal joist deck screws are designed for exactly this purpose, providing reliable bite and long-term strength without compromising the integrity of the Ipe boards. ABSWood includes these specialty fasteners as part of their complete hardwood decking accessory selection.

Just as important as knowing what to use is knowing what to avoid. Galvanized screws may be acceptable for other types of decking, but they corrode quickly when used with Ipe and often leave permanent stains on the wood. Phillips-head screws strip easily under the torque required to drive into hardwood, and off-brand “stainless” screws frequently fail because they aren’t truly corrosion-resistant. Nail guns should also be avoided entirely, as they can split dense boards and do not provide long-term holding power.

Even with premium fasteners, pre-drilling is non-negotiable when working with Ipe. Skipping this step often results in cracked boards, broken screw heads, and uneven seating. ABSWood carries hardwood-rated drill bits, countersink tools, and complete fastening kits that make proper installation faster and more consistent.

Many homeowners and contractors choose ABSWood not just for product availability, but for expertise. Because we specialize in Ipe and other premium hardwoods, their team understands the challenges that come with dense materials and stocks only fasteners that have been proven to perform. Buying decking and fasteners from the same supplier also simplifies logistics, ensures compatibility, and helps maintain consistent quality throughout the project.

When it comes time to choose the right fastener system, the best option depends on your deck design and aesthetic goals. Hidden fasteners are ideal for a clean, modern look, while stainless steel face screws paired with a plug system offer maximum strength with a nearly invisible finish. Metal joist screws are essential for steel framing, and high-quality Torx-drive stainless screws remain a reliable all-around solution.

No matter which approach you choose, ABSWood stocks the fasteners designed to match the performance and longevity of Ipe decking. With the right products and proper installation, your deck will not only look exceptional—it will remain strong, stable, and beautiful for decades to come. Our hardwood holds fasteners better and outlasts pressure-treated lumber in saltwater

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