Buy Ipe Decking Direct — Premium Grade, Wholesale Prices, Ships Nationwide

Ipe decking (pronounced ee-pay) is the undisputed benchmark for outdoor hardwood. It is denser than oak, harder than almost every domestic species, and naturally resistant to rot, insects, fire, and extreme weather — all without a single chemical treatment. When you buy Ipe decking from ABS Wood, you are buying directly from an 18-year supplier that moves serious volume, stores material in climate-controlled domestic warehouses, and ships to your job site in as little as five days.

Whether you are a homeowner building the deck of a lifetime, a contractor pricing a commercial boardwalk, or an architect specifying for a waterfront project, this page covers everything you need to make a confident purchase: sizes, grades, pricing benchmarks, what to ask any supplier, and how to order from us today.

→ Browse the full Ipe shop  |  Call us: 352-508-4990  |  Email: info@ABSWood.com

Why Ipe Is the Gold Standard for Outdoor Decking

Ipe — also sold under trade names Brazilian Walnut, Ironwood, and Pau Lope — comes from the tropical forests of Central and South America. Its heartwood is the working material: a dense, tight-grained hardwood with properties that no composite or softwood can match at an equivalent price-per-decade-of-service.

Performance Numbers That Matter

One of our own team members had a Brazilian deck in service for 17 years. When an inspector looked at it, the comment was that it looked “a couple of years old.” That is not marketing — that is what density does.

The Key Benefits When You Buy Ipe Decking

• Hardness and scratch resistance. At 3,680 lbs on the Janka scale, Ipe is roughly three times harder than oak and more than four times harder than pressure-treated pine. Day-to-day foot traffic, furniture, and pets will not leave a mark.
• Natural rot and insect resistance. Ipe’s density and natural oils make it virtually impenetrable to termites, fungi, and wood-boring insects — no chemical preservatives required.
• Fire resistance. Ipe carries a Class A flame-spread rating — the same category as concrete and steel — making it an approved choice wherever open-flame cooking or fire features are nearby.
• Structural stability. A single 1×6 Ipe board spans 16-inch on-center joists without deflection, making substructure requirements comparable to much thicker softwood boards.
• Long-term value. Higher upfront cost is offset by a 40-to-75-year service life with minimal repair costs. When you sell your home, a well-maintained Ipe deck is a listed asset, not a liability.
• Aesthetic longevity. Rich dark-brown color with natural grain variation. Left untreated, weathers to an elegant silver-gray. Apply a UV-blocking oil annually to hold the original color.
• Environmental responsibility. All ABS Wood Ipe is Lacey Act compliant. FSC-certified options are available for LEED projects. Unlike composite decking, Ipe biodegrades at end of life.

Ipe Decking Sizes, Profiles, and Applications

ABS Wood stocks a full range of Ipe profiles so contractors and homeowners can match the right board to the right application. If you do not see your size listed, call us — if it exists, we likely have it or can source it quickly through our direct import network.

Most Popular Ipe Decking Profiles

Standard Lengths

We stock boards in random lengths from 6 to 20 feet, and can custom-mill specific lengths for commercial specifications. Odd-length orders (5–15 ft) are available at competitive pricing — ideal for stairs, risers, or reducing cut waste on complex deck layouts.

Custom Milling

ABS Wood can custom-mill most Ipe shapes including ogee edge cuts, specialty dimensions, and non-standard lengths. This service is particularly valuable for architects and commercial project managers with tight specification requirements. Contact us with your project details and we will reply with availability and lead time.

Ipe Decking Pricing: What to Expect in 2026

Ipe pricing varies based on board size, length, grade, and whether the material is FSC-certified. As a direct importer and wholesale supplier, ABS Wood is structured to pass savings to you — our low overhead internet model eliminates the retail markup that box stores and middlemen add.

ABS Wood Pricing Benchmarks

• Ipe decking starts at $6 per linear foot for standard profiles (1×4, 1×6 smooth and pre-grooved).
• Wider and thicker profiles (5/4×6, 2×6) are priced higher based on board footage.
• Custom milling, FSC certification, and expedited shipping may carry additional cost — ask us for a quote specific to your project.

How to Calculate What You Need

Use our board footage calculator on the ABS Wood homepage, or follow this simple approach:

1. Measure your deck in square feet (length × width).
2. Divide by the face width of your board (e.g., for 1×6, use 5.5″ exposed face = 0.458 ft). Square feet ÷ 0.458 = linear feet needed.
3. Add 10–15% for end cuts, waste, and acclimation defects.
4. Call or email ABS Wood with your linear footage total for a firm price quote.

Why Ipe’s Upfront Cost Is a Smart Investment

A pressure-treated pine deck typically requires refinishing every 2–3 years and full replacement within 10–15 years. Over a 30-year horizon, the total cost of ownership — including labor for repeated refinishing and replacement — frequently exceeds what you would have paid for a single Ipe installation that needs only periodic oiling. When factoring in the resale value contribution to your home, the math shifts even further in Ipe’s favor.

Grade and Quality: What Makes ABS Wood Ipe Different

Not all Ipe on the market is equal. Unscrupulous suppliers charge premium prices, ship lower-grade material, and source from mills with questionable practices. ABS Wood has been in business for 18+ years and has built its reputation on the opposite approach.

Our Quality Standards

• FEQ / FAS Prime Grade only. We do not stock seconds, B-grades, or clearance material. Every board we ship is First European Quality — the highest grade available for tropical hardwood.
• Expert inspection at intake and fulfillment. On receipt, our Brazilian wood experts with decades of field experience inspect the shipment. When your order is picked, our local team reviews it again for defects. Minimal defects — usually none.
• Climate-controlled domestic warehousing. We store inventory in covered warehouses across the US — not at the port, not in open-air yards — to maintain board integrity before it reaches you.
• Lacey Act compliance on every board. All ABS Wood Ipe is responsibly harvested and fully compliant with the Lacey Act, which governs legal importation of wood products into the United States.
• FSC certification available. For LEED projects, discriminating clients, or anyone who wants the highest environmental assurance, we offer FSC-certified Ipe (FSC® C117062).
• Long-term mill relationships. Because we have been buying from the same mills for years, those mills prioritize consistency and quality for us. You get the benefit of that relationship in every board.

Questions to Ask Any Ipe Supplier Before You Buy

If you are comparing ABS Wood to another supplier, ask these:

• What grade do you ship — FEQ/FAS, or do you mix in seconds?
• Is your wood Lacey Act compliant? Can you show documentation?
• Is FSC certification available, or just claimed?
• Where is the inventory stored — port, open yard, or climate-controlled warehouse?
• Do you inspect material at fulfillment, or ship straight from receiving?
• What is your policy if boards arrive with defects?

ABS Wood answers all of these with documented answers. We stand behind every order.

Everything You Need to Complete Your Ipe Deck

Ipe decking performs best when installed with hardware and accessories specifically designed for dense tropical hardwoods. ABS Wood carries a complete line of accessories to ensure your project is done right — and done once.

Fastening Systems

• Ipe Clip Extreme (hidden fastener). Our most popular fastening method for smooth, gap-free decks with no visible screws. Clips lock into pre-grooved boards from the top of the deck — no crawling underneath. Rated for over 1,000 lbs of uplift resistance and holds boards laterally, one of the only clip systems that can make that claim.
• Headcote stainless steel screws. For face-screw applications. Stainless steel is essential with Ipe — the wood’s natural oils react with standard hardware, causing staining and corrosion. Headcote screws have small, low-profile heads that minimize visibility.
• Smart-Bit / Smart-Bit Pro. Combination drill-and-countersink tool calibrated for Ipe density. Saves significant time on large projects.
• DeckMaster / Deck Clip systems. Alternative hidden systems for specific project requirements.

Deck Accessories

• Ipe Post Caps — matching hardwood caps for railing posts
• Plugs — Ipe plug buttons for covering face screws cleanly
• End Seal — wax-based end-grain sealer to apply within 24 hours of any fresh cut
• Joist Tape — protective barrier tape for pressure-treated joists, extends substructure life
• BoWrench / Hardwood Wrench — board-straightening tool for tight installations
• UV Finisher / Deck Cleaner — maintenance products to clean and maintain Ipe color
• Fortress Railing / Wood Railing systems — matching railing components in Ipe and composite

→ Browse all Ipe deck accessories at ABS Wood

Key Installation Facts Before You Order

Ipe installs differently from pine or cedar. Understanding a few critical points before you buy helps you order correctly and avoid common mistakes.

Acclimation

ABS Wood ships Ipe that is partially air-dried. Before installation, store boards out of direct sunlight and allow them to acclimate to local humidity for 1–2 weeks. Good air circulation around the boards during acclimation is essential to minimize future movement (shrinkage or cupping). Expect natural shrinkage of approximately 1/16″ on 4″ boards and up to 1/8″ on 6″ boards as the wood dries and seasons.

Pre-Drilling Is Non-Negotiable

Ipe’s density — roughly three times harder than oak — means screws cannot be driven without pre-drilling pilot holes. Use carbide-tipped bits. Drill to proper depth, clear chips before inserting the fastener, and never over-tighten. This prevents splitting and ensures a flush, professional finish.

Joist Spacing and Substructure

Use pressure-treated lumber for joists spaced no more than 16 inches on-center for 1×6 Ipe. That is the maximum recommended span for standard decking profiles. For high-humidity climates or elevated/dock installations, check local building codes and consult a structural engineer.

Ventilation and Drainage

Leave a 3/32″ gap between boards (1/16″ if installing in temperatures below 40°F). Maintain at least 18 inches of open air beneath joists with cross-ventilation on all sides. Never install directly over a concrete slab — concrete traps moisture and causes cupping over time. Grade soil beneath the deck for drainage, directing water away from the structure.

End Sealing After Cuts

ABS Wood boards arrive with ends wax-sealed from the mill for stability. Any fresh field cut must be sealed with End Seal within 24 hours to prevent checking at the cut ends.

→ Read our full Ipe installation guide

Ipe vs. Other Decking Materials: How It Compares

Ipe vs. Composite Decking

Composite decking has improved significantly over the past decade and offers low surface maintenance. However, it cannot match Ipe on load-bearing strength, fire resistance, heat retention in direct sun, or end-of-life environmental impact. Composite boards end up in landfills for centuries; Ipe decomposes naturally. For anyone who values the feel and appearance of real wood, composite is simply not the same product.

Ipe vs. Cumaru (Brazilian Teak)

Cumaru is the most common alternative to Ipe and ABS Wood stocks it extensively. It is slightly softer (3,540 Janka vs. 3,680), slightly lighter in color, and typically priced lower. For most residential builds it performs excellently. Ipe remains the better choice for marine environments, commercial boardwalks, or any application where maximum density and fire rating matter. See our full Ipe vs. Cumaru comparison →

Ipe vs. Garapa

Garapa (also called Brazilian Ash) is a lighter-colored, slightly softer Brazilian hardwood ideal for customers who want the durability of an exotic species with a golden-blond aesthetic. It is an excellent value for covered porches and residential decks where Ipe’s density is more than required. ABS Wood carries a full Garapa line alongside Ipe.

Ipe vs. Cedar

Western Red Cedar is a fine domestic softwood for fencing, trim, and light decking. Its natural oils provide some rot resistance, but it is dramatically softer, shorter-lived, and more maintenance-intensive than Ipe. Cedar decks in Florida or Gulf Coast climates typically show significant wear within 5–7 years without regular maintenance. Ipe in the same conditions lasts decades.

Ipe vs. Pressure-Treated Pine

Pressure-treated pine is the lowest upfront cost option and remains popular for budget builds. However, the chemicals used in modern PT wood (ACQ, CA) are corrosive to standard hardware, require frequent maintenance, and the boards degrade meaningfully within 10–15 years in most climates. Long-term total cost of ownership consistently favors Ipe.

What Can You Build When You Buy Ipe Decking from ABS Wood?

Ipe’s combination of strength, density, fire resistance, and beauty makes it suitable — and often specified — across an extraordinary range of applications:

• Residential backyard decks — the most common use; adds lasting value to any home
• Rooftop decks — Class A fire rating, weight-appropriate density, and tile formats for floating installs
• Pool decks and surrounds — naturally slip-resistant surface, does not get scalding hot in direct sun
• Marine docks and boat docks — Ipe is so dense it sinks in water; used in saltwater applications for decades without treatment
• Boardwalks and piers — the Atlantic City Boardwalk, municipal piers, and waterfront promenades specify Ipe for its lifespan
• Commercial outdoor dining and hospitality — hotel terraces, restaurant patios, resort decking
• Government and municipal applications — park benches, city trash enclosures, public walkways; Ipe is specified for long-term, low-maintenance municipal infrastructure
• Outdoor stairs and risers — Ipe risers paired with Ipe treads create a cohesive, premium look
• Pergolas and outdoor structures — Ipe timbers and lumber for overhead structures and shade features
• Exterior siding (rainscreen) — same material, architectural profile; increasingly popular on modern homes

Ordering, Shipping, and Lead Times

ABS Wood operates as a direct-import internet retailer, which means our inventory sits in covered US warehouses and ships directly to your job site — no local pickup required, no retail showroom markup.

Shipping Coverage

We ship domestically throughout all 50 states and internationally to Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and beyond. We have strong access to the Southeast, Midwest, and Northeast US markets through our warehouse network.

Lead Times

• Standard orders: Allow 2–3 weeks from order to delivery for standard profiles.
• Peak season: During spring and early summer, processing times may extend slightly — plan ahead.
• Custom milling: Add 1–2 weeks for milled-to-spec orders based on current mill lead times.
• Express availability: We can often ship within 5 business days for standard stock items — call us to confirm availability for your timeline.

Delivery Process

Once your order is ready, our shipping team contacts you by phone to confirm details and coordinate delivery to your job site. Boards arrive bundled and packaged for transport integrity. We strongly recommend acclimating material for 1–2 weeks on-site before installation — factor this into your project timeline.

Samples

We offer Ipe samples so you can evaluate color, grain, and finish before committing to a full order. Request samples through our shop or call us directly.

Frequently Asked Questions: Buying Ipe Decking

How much does Ipe decking cost per square foot?

ABS Wood’s Ipe starts at approximately $6 per linear foot for standard 1×4 and 1×6 profiles. Installed cost — which includes labor, fasteners, and substructure — varies by region and project complexity. For a complete project budget, request a quote from our team with your square footage and preferred profile.

What is the best size Ipe decking board for a residential deck?

The 1×6 smooth or pre-grooved board is the most popular size for residential decks. It provides an ideal balance of visual proportion, structural span (16″ OC joists), and cost efficiency. The 1×4 profile is a good choice for smaller spaces or those who prefer a tighter, more refined appearance.

Do I need to seal or treat Ipe decking when I buy it?

No chemical treatment is required. Ipe’s natural density and oils provide inherent protection. If you want to preserve the original brown color, apply a UV-blocking oil or water-based finisher once a year. If left untreated, Ipe weathers to a silver-gray patina over 1–2 seasons — a look many homeowners prefer. Either path is durable.

How long does Ipe decking last?

Properly installed Ipe decks routinely last 40–75 years. Some older installations — properly maintained — have remained in service for over 50 years. ABS Wood clients regularly report inspectors being unable to believe a deck’s age because it still looks nearly new.

Is Ipe decking environmentally sustainable?

Yes — when sourced responsibly. All ABS Wood Ipe is Lacey Act compliant, ensuring legal importation from managed sources. FSC-certified Ipe is available for projects requiring the highest environmental verification. Critically, Ipe is a natural product that biodegrades at end of life, unlike composite decking which persists in landfills for centuries.

Can I order Ipe decking online and have it shipped to my job site?

Yes. ABS Wood is an internet-first retailer. We take orders by phone, email, or through our online shop, and ship directly to your home or job site nationwide. Our shipping team calls you to coordinate delivery logistics.

What is the difference between smooth and pre-grooved Ipe?

Smooth boards are installed with face screws (pre-drilled and countersunk). Pre-grooved boards have a routed channel on both edges that accepts hidden fasteners like the Ipe Clip Extreme, creating a screw-free surface. Both profiles perform identically — the choice is aesthetic and installation preference.

How is Ipe different from composite decking?

Ipe is a natural hardwood; composite is a manufactured mixture of plastic and wood fiber. Ipe is harder, stronger, fire-rated Class A, and biodegrades naturally. Composite offers lower surface maintenance but does not feel or look identical to real wood, and carries a shorter lifespan in most climates. Ipe costs more upfront but typically costs less over its service life.

Can Ipe decking be used for a dock or marine application?

Absolutely. Ipe is one of the most specified materials for docks, piers, and marine boardwalks. Its density makes it virtually impenetrable to moisture and marine organisms. Note: Ipe sinks in water due to its density — dock builders should plan lifting and placement accordingly.

What is CITES Appendix II and how does it affect my Ipe purchase?

Ipe and some related species were added to CITES Appendix II, which increases international oversight on harvesting and export but does not ban the species. This has tightened supply and modestly increased prices. ABS Wood sources from compliant suppliers with full documentation. When you buy from us, you are buying legally sourced, properly documented material.

Why Buy Ipe Decking from ABS Wood?

Advanced Building Supplies (ABS Wood) has been supplying premium Brazilian hardwood to homeowners, contractors, commercial developers, and government agencies for over 18 years. We are registered in Florida (Advanced Building Supplies, Inc.) and operate as a premium direct-to-consumer internet retailer — which means our low overhead passes real savings to you.

What Sets ABS Wood Apart

• 18+ years supplying Ipe at the top of the market. We are not order-takers. Our sales team has been on job sites. We consult with architects, builders, contractors, and homeowners to match the right material to the right project.
• FEQ/Prime Grade only. We do not sell seconds. Every board that leaves our warehouse is the highest grade available.
• Bilingual support. Our team includes English and Mandarin Chinese speakers — helpful for international projects and clients.
• Full product ecosystem. We supply not just Ipe decking boards, but the complete system: fasteners, accessories, siding, railing, and custom milling.
• Competitive wholesale pricing. Direct sourcing, strong mill relationships, and low overhead mean our Ipe pricing beats most retail and many wholesale competitors.
• We stand behind what we ship. If you have issues with material we deliver, we will work to fix it. That is an 18-year commitment, not a marketing phrase.

Where We Ship From

ABS Wood stores inventory in climate-controlled warehouses across the United States, with easy access to the Southeast, Midwest, and Northeast markets. Our Florida headquarters: 104 W Miller Street, Fruitland Park, FL 34731. Note: There is no walk-in retail at this location — we are an internet-first operation that ships direct to your site.

Related Resources from ABS Wood

• Ipe Decking — Complete Product Guide
• Ipe vs. Cumaru Decking: Which Is Better in 2026?
• Ipe Decking Installation: Tips and Techniques
• About ABS Wood as Your Ipe Decking Supplier
• Is Ipe Wood Worth the Cost? A Honest Answer
• Pre-Drilling, Fasteners, and Ventilation: Technical Notes for Ipe Installation
• Deck Accessories: Fasteners, Clips, Hardware, and Finishes
• Shop All Ipe Products at ABS Wood
• Custom Ipe Milling — Any Profile, Any Dimension

Ready to Buy Ipe Decking? Get a Quote Today.

ABS Wood is ready to help you source the right Ipe for your project — from a single residential deck to a large commercial boardwalk. Send us your project details and we will reply with pricing, availability, and our recommendations.

Call us: 352-508-4990 or 404-549-4840
Toll-free: 1-877-7ABS-IPE (1-877-722-7473)
Email: info@ABSWood.com
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM Eastern Time

→ Browse Ipe Decking Products and Order Online