Ipe Around The World: The 4 Countries Where Ipe Is Most Used

Photo 1-Grand-Hyatt-Baha-Mar

Let’s put it in a few words. Ipe is the best tropical hardwood in the world. Period. First of all, it has natural oils that make it impenetrable to almost everything. Neither insects, fungus, water, nor even the strongest sun can damage it. 

That is why, here at Brazilian Lumber, we call it the superhero of hardwoods because no species compares to the quality, durability, and extraordinary features of Ipe. 

As it is the best wood material for exterior and interior construction projects and is suitable for any type of climate, it can be found all over the world. Choosing this material for your buildings is the best decision you could make. 

Alondra Villas & Suites

You might think we are exaggerating, but we are not. Everywhere you go, you will see Ipe. Especially if you visit a lot of luxury resorts, such as Alondra Villas & Suites, in Spain. 

As you know, Spain can be really hot on summer days and that is precisely why Ipe is the best choice. This hardwood does not get hot underfoot. That’s right, you read it perfectly, Ipe does not absorb heat, which is why it’s not hot to the touch as its surface stays cool all the time. 

Ipe Lumber Does Not Get Hot Underfoot

It is important to understand that under the sun, the surface of your deck will heat up more due to the amount of solar energy absorbed versus the amount reflected. The darker the color of the surface, the more heat is absorbed and the hotter it gets. This is why most resorts let Ipe fade to a silver color, which also gives a stunning look. 

Most wood surfaces draw heat into the panel, causing the surface to cool, while the board stays warmer longer as the sun goes away. Fortunately, with Ipe lumber, we don’t have that issue as this wood always retains its cool factor across its entire surface. 

The only thing that might happen with an Ipe deck constantly exposed to the sun is a change of color. If a proper oil is not applied,  it can take on a silvery tone, commonly known as silver patina. For some people, this can be an added bonus, as it also looks great with a platinum tone, as we mentioned earlier. 

Due to its ability to keep its surface cool even when exposed to heat, Ipe is found in all the major luxury resorts, from the Maldives to the Turks and Caicos Islands, where the weather is quite intense. 

Ipe Withstands High Foot Traffic

Mandarin Oriental – Lake Como

In addition, this hardwood is also the preferred choice for high foot traffic locations such as South Point Park, in Miami (USA). This touristic place receives millions of visitors each year, so a surface with characteristics such as hardness and durability was needed. 

On top of that, Ipe does not scratch or split easily. Unbelievable, isn’t it?

In Italy, for instance, Ipe wood can be found in almost every corner of some of the best luxury resorts in the country, for example, Mandarin Oriental, located in Lake Como.  

It can also be found at the Venice Airport, where it is used as flooring. In the picture below, you can appreciate its quality and beauty.  

As one of the most visited countries by tourists, it is necessary to use a material that will withstand heavy foot traffic. Could you name a better alternative to Ipe wood? Of course not, Ipe is always the right choice. 

Ipe is incredibly resistant due to the tropical environment in which its tree, Handroanthus spp. (formerly placed in the Tabebuia genus) grows, as well as the natural oils that compose it. Both its origin and its properties are a guarantee of its durability and long lifespan.

Likewise, thanks to its density, Ipe wood can withstand all kinds of threats such as extreme weather or harsh sun. Because of its high phenol content, it will not rot, mildew, or be damaged by insects.

Another place where it can be found is at Disney Boardwalk Resort, in Florida. This resort is visited by thousands of people. Ipe was the right choice for the decking, as it can withstand heavy-duty abuse and harsh weather. 

Ipe Is A Sustainable Hardwood Suitable For Children And Pets

Ipe lumber is biodegradable, renewable, and recyclable. Since it is a durable material, it does not need to be replaced for decades. 

At Brazilian Lumber, we only offer wood that comes from sustainably managed forests. This ensures the conservation of nature and its biodiversity. In addition to contributing to carbon sequestration and reducing the impact of the greenhouse effect.

We believe that sustainability and responsible forestry management are key to conservation. That is why we offer certified wood and have a 100% chain of custody for all our hardwoods.  

In addition, Ipe is a naturally dense and resistant material, which means that, unlike softwoods or domestic woods, it does not have to be chemically treated to be resistant to the elements. It offers a  non-toxic surface, ideal for families with children or pets.

Ipe Is Super Weather-Resistant

Capella Sanya Resort

Besides its ability to keep its surface cool even when exposed to heat, or the fact that it can last for many years, being super rain-resistant is also another excellent reason why you should buy Ipe.  

Ipe is originally from America’s rainforest where it is exposed to a lot of rain, so it has evolved to deal with its environment. Its natural properties make it resistant to rot, mildew, and fungus. 

These features make it suitable for many touristic locations in China, which is known for its frequent rainy weather. It can be found in many places,  such as Huangpu River, which has some fences made of Ipe. This place is located in Shanghai, China.

In addition, Ipe is one of the few natural building materials that can withstand saltwater corrosion.  The density of the wood protects it from rot and decay, which is why you can find this hardwood in most 5-star hotels.

There are many resorts that use Ipe for their decking, cladding, siding, or even as part of their decorative elements. You can find Ipe at the Capella Sanya Resort, which is located in Yingzhou Town, or at Banyan Tree Sanya Resort, in Jiyang District.

In fact, this material is the wood of choice in most marinas, such as the Shelter Island Marina in San Diego and San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf.

Ipe Is A Low Maintenance Material

You may think that a material with these super features requires a lot of care to remain always in good condition, but that is far from reality. 

Ipe is a very hard and resistant material that will last for decades with minimal maintenance. All you need to do is clean it and regularly apply a hardwood oil base if you want to preserve its natural color. 

Here is the 3-step cleaning routine we recommend: 

1. Sweep it daily to remove dirt, pollen, and leaves.
2. Wash it and let it dry well for at least 24 hours.
3. Then oil it with proper products like the ones we sell here at Brazilian Lumber to keep its natural color. 

In short, this one-of-a-kind hardwood has so many outstanding characteristics and amazing natural properties, that it is impossible for it not to be the preferred choice for many places around the world. Besides its durability and the fact that it can last for decades, Ipe adds beauty and value to any construction.  

Its consistent and smooth texture will highlight the beauty of the new area. It is also resistant to weathering, rotting, insect damage, seawater, and can withstand high foot traffic. 

So, taking all into account, when you buy Ipe, you are not making a purchase but an investment you and your family will enjoy for years to come.