If you’re looking for Ipe wood for sale, you probably already know why it’s a favorite choice for outdoor projects. Often referred to as Ironwood, this wood is favored for its natural strength and longevity. It scores 3,680 on the Janka scale — this makes it roughly three times harder than a maple baseball bat or an oak floor!
At ABS Wood, we supply environmentally certified premium-grade Brazilian hardwood decking options, and we’ve seen how much difference genuine material makes. Identifying high-quality Ipe wood shouldn’t be difficult if you know what to look for.
The supplier
When looking for Ipe wood for sale, you need to check and verify the supplier first before the product itself. Make sure they follow regulations like the Lacey Act, which helps ensure the wood comes from responsibly managed forests and isn’t illegally or unsustainably harvested.
A reliable supplier will take the quality of their products seriously and make it clear how they operate. Every board should be checked for major defects (cracks, splits, uneven thickness, etc.). Working with a supplier who prioritizes quality means you can be confident your Ipe wood will look great, last for decades, and perform perfectly in your decks or outdoor projects.
Characteristics
Familiarize yourself with what authentic Ipe wood should look like if you’re planning to build Ipe wood decks. Real Ipe wood should have a rich, brown tone that can vary slightly from board to board, unlike manufactured wood. Some boards will be darker (almost bloody red or black), while others can have subtle reddish or even greenish hues. These subtle differences are normal and part of what gives Ipe its natural character. It is also one of the most obvious characteristics you should look for in authentic Ipe.
The texture of Ipe should feel very fine and seamless to the touch, with an obvious, distinct, and attractive grain pattern. Each board will have its own unique combination of grain and color, yet the overall impression should be a medium brown base tone.
Durability
High-quality Ipe wood naturally resists pests like pine beetles, fungal growth, mildew, and termites. This makes it ideal for outdoor projects. If a board does get marked, a quick sanding with an 80-grit orbital sander can restore its smooth surface. Over time, Ipe will naturally weather to a silver-gray, which many find appealing, but applying a UV-blocking finish periodically can help maintain its warm brown tones.
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification
If the Ipe wood for sale is FSC-certified Brazilian, you can be confident it is 100% authentic, coming from well-managed forests and harvested legally. Always inquire with your supplier about the certification and request documentation if necessary. FSC certification ensures that the Ipe wood you use for your decks or outdoor projects meets strict environmental and social standards, giving you peace of mind while also supporting sustainable forestry.
Price
Ipe Wood is one of the few hardwoods that can last for decades, which means it usually comes at a higher cost compared to alternatives like pressure-treated lumber. If a supplier is offering it for much less than the typical market price, be cautious. Lower prices can indicate sub-par grade, mixed species, or wood that isn’t properly certified. Paying a bit more for premium, authentic Ipe ensures you’re getting a deck that will last for decades, resist wear and pests, and maintain its natural beauty.
ABSWood supplies sustainably sourced, premium Brazilian Ipe hardwood for your projects. Check out our carefully selected range of Ipe decking, accessories, and other hardwoods to build a deck that’s both beautiful and functional. Dial 404-549-4840 or 352-508-4990 for a quote. Our team is always ready to assist!