• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Promotivia

Ideas. Innovation. Excellence.

  • Home
  • Topics
    • Construction
    • Education
    • Family
    • Furniture
    • Health
    • Pet Care
    • Swimming Pool
    • Technology
  • Ask a Question
  • Blog
  • Contact Us

Ipe Lumber – A Quick Wood Species Overview

Last updated on October 1, 2023 by Sozo Staff Leave a Comment

ipe recessed deck fence
Ipe recessed deck fence

Ipe wood, also known as Brazilian Walnut, is an exotic hardwood that has been used for centuries for a variety of applications, from flooring to decking to furniture. It is one of the most popular hardwoods in the world and is highly sought after due to its durability and beauty.

Ipe lumber can be purchased from the J. Gibson McIlvain Company; learn more at mcilvain.com. 

completed ipe back deck and stairs
Ipe back deck and stairs

History

Ipe wood has been used since pre-colonial times by the indigenous peoples of Brazil. It was first used for construction due to its strength and resistance to rot and insects, and over time its use as a decking material has become more popular due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.

unweathered ipe deck
Unweathered Ipe deck

Properties

Ipe wood is an extremely durable and strong hardwood, with a Janka hardness rating of 3680, making it one of the hardest woods available. It is also highly resistant to rot, insects, and decay, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications. It is also very stable, with a low shrinkage rate, and is naturally resistant to fire.

one by four ipe boards
1×4 Ipe decking boards

Alternate Names for Ipe Wood

Ipe wood is also known by a variety of other names, including Brazilian Walnut, Ironwood, and Lapacho.

disney boardwalk ipe
Ipe boardwalk at Walt Disney World

Applications & Uses

Ipe wood is most commonly used for outdoor applications, such as decking and patios. It is also used for furniture, flooring, countertops, and other interior applications.

ipe pool deck
Ipe deck by pool

Pros & Cons of Ipe Wood

The main advantage of Ipe wood is its durability and strength, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications. It is also highly resistant to rot, insects, and decay, and is naturally fire resistant. Additionally, it is an attractive hardwood with a dark brownish-red color that can enhance the look of any outdoor space. One of the main drawbacks of Ipe wood is its cost, as it is one of the more expensive hardwoods available.

ipe decking boards
Ipe decking boards

Grading

Ipe wood is graded according to its appearance and quality. The grading system is based on the American Lumber Standard, which grades the wood based on its color, grain pattern, and any defects or knots present. The highest grade is FAS (Firsts and Seconds), followed by Select, #1 Common, and #2 Common.

ipe decking boards on truck
Truck loaded with Ipe decking boards

Origin

Ipe wood is native to South America, primarily Brazil, and is also found in some parts of Central America, such as Panama and Costa Rica.

stacks of ipe decking
Stacks of Ipe decking awaiting shipment by boat to the U.S.

Color and Color Variations

Ipe wood has a dark brownish-red hue that can vary slightly depending on the species. It usually features a straight, uniform grain pattern and may also have some streaks of lighter colors.

air drying lumber
Air drying lumber

Drying

Ipe wood can be dried using either kiln drying or air drying. Kiln drying is a faster process and can be used to dry the wood quickly and evenly. Air drying is slower, but can produce a more stable wood.

forklift loading kiln at mcilvain
Forklift loading kiln at J Gibson McIlvain

Installation

Ipe wood can be installed using either traditional woodworking tools or composite decking systems. It is important to use the correct fasteners to ensure the deck is securely attached.

grading dried lumber at mcilvain
Grading dried lumber at J Gibson McIlvain

Sizes

Ipe wood is available in a variety of sizes, from small boards for use in furniture to large boards for decking applications. The most common sizes are 1×4, 1×6, 5/4×6, and 2×6.

j gibson mcilvain lumber delivery truck
J Gibson McIlvain Company offers delivery of high quality wood throughout the U.S.

J. Gibson McIlvain Company

Since 1798, when Hugh McIlvain established a lumber business near Philadelphia, the McIlvain family has been immersed in the premium import and domestic lumber industry. With its headquarters located in White Marsh, Maryland (just outside of Baltimore), the J. Gibson McIlvain Company (www.mcilvain.com) is one of the largest U.S. importers of exotic woods.

As an active supporter of sustainable lumber practices, the J. Gibson McIlvain Company has provided fine lumber for notable projects throughout the world, including the White House, Capitol building, Supreme Court, and the Smithsonian museums. Contact a representative at J. Gibson McIlvain today by calling (800) 638-9100.

Filed Under: Construction, Featured

Additional Articles

disney boardwalk ipe
Is Composite Decking or Tropical Decking Better for Boardwalk Construction? Part 1
flat and quartersawn sapele
When it Comes to African Mahogany, Sapele has Plenty to Offer, Part 1
maxtrix chestnut finish wood corner desk loft bed
Growing Up with Maxtrix Kids Furniture
septic system and drainfield drawing
Septic System Pumping – Mooresville, North Carolina
Helpful Tips for a Pet-Friendly Pool
How a Hot Tub in Your Backyard Can Improve Your Life

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

2 × 1 =

Primary Sidebar

Quality Wood Products
Plywood options

Featured Articles

  • Matching Lumber Color Is Trickier Than It Seems – Part 1
  • Good News for Forests & the Future: Why We Should Start Considering B Grade Lumber
  • Building an Ipe Deck That Lasts for Decades, Part 1
  • Lumber Pricing, Demystified (Part 1)
  • Why Do Large Timbers Have Cracks? Part 1
  • Is Lumber Sustainable?
  • Evaluating Issues Surrounding Teak, Part 1
  • FSC Lumber, LEED Certification, and the Price of Being Green
  • Mahogany Alternatives: A Wood Worker’s Top 3 Picks
  • Outlook for Genuine Mahogany’s Future, Part 1
Tropical Decking Lumber

Popular Articles

  • Expandable Children's Furniture at The Bedroom Source
  • African Mahogany Lumber vs Genuine Mahogany Lumber
  • The City Way: Taking Your Child’s Bed to the Next Level with Maxtrix!
  • Perfect Furniture for a Boy's Bedroom, Pt 1
  • Perfect Furniture for a Boy's Bedroom, Pt 2
  • How Do You Treat Reactive Attachment Disorder?
  • Ultra-Budget-Friendly Swimming Pool Upgrades
  • Why Sleep Is Important for Young Athletes
  • Why Parents Love Jackrabbit Class Management Software

Reader Feedback

  • DSP on Pool Maintenance Tips for Salt Water Pools, Part 1
  • Zachary Tomlinson on Amazing Benefits of Pool Ownership, Part 1
  • Zachary Tomlinson on 3 Types of Pool Covers, 3 Distinct Purposes
  • Afton Jackson on Bathroom Remodeling Ideas: Can You Use Wood in the Bathroom?
  • Alice Carroll on 4 Types of Vinyl Pool Liners
  • Afton Jackson on So You’re Adding an In-Ground Swimming Pool? Here’s What You Can Expect
  • Zachary Tomlinson on Why You Should Consider Installing a Backyard Swimming Pool – Part 3

Copyright © 2023 Sozo Firm Inc · Privacy Policy · Disclaimer · Sitemap

The Promotivia.com website does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Content from Promotivia.com is not intended for medical diagnosis and/or treatment. The information provided on Promotivia.com is intended for general consumer information & should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice.