Ipe Tropical Hardwood Standard 

Ipe Tropical Hardwood (pronounced ee-pay) is one of the densest woods available for outdoor construction. It is very dense (in fact, it sinks in water), has the same fire rating as concrete and steel, and is mildew and decay-resistant.  

Its denseness and natural oils make it virtually impenetrable to insects (so insect deterioration is not an issue). Ipe does not scratch or splinter easily, does not become hot in the sun, and has a high friction coefficient, making it perfect for outdoor and seaside construction.

Species: Handroanthus spp.

Other Names: Brazilian Walnut, Lapacho, Iron Wood, Amapa, Cortez, Guayacan polvillo, Flor Amarillo, Greenheart, Madera negra, Tahuari, Lapacho negro, Pau D ́arco, Canaguate, Polvillo, Hakia, Tahuari Negro, Groenhart, Acapro Puy, Yellow poui.

Ipe Origin: Central and South America (Brazil, Peru, Paraguay, Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Venezuela).

Appearance: The color of Ipe is similar to a walnut, with dark tones that have olive brown to reddish undertones. If left untreated, it will gradually turn into a beautiful natural silver patina.

Tree Size: 100-130 ft (30-40 m) tall, 2-4 ft (.6-1.2 m) trunk diameter

Average Dried Weight: 69 lbs/ft3 (1,100 kg/m3)

Specific Gravity (Basic, 12% MC): .91, 1.10

Janka Hardness: 3,510 lbf (15,620 N)

Modulus of Rupture: 25,660 lbf/in2 (177.0 MPa)

Elastic Modulus: 3,200,000 lbf/in2 (22.07 GPa)

Crushing Strength: 13,600 lbf/in2 (93.8 MPa)

Shrinkage: Radial: 5.9%, Tangential: 7.2%, Volumetric: 12.4%, T/R Ratio: 1.2

Drying: Ipe can be air-dried or kiln-dried. Air-dried ipe has a moisture content of around 18%, whereas kiln-dried Ipe has a moisture content of about 10-13%. Air-dried or kiln-dried Ipe resists heat, rain, wind, and temperature swings.

Workability:  Due to its high density and strength, Ipe can be difficult to work with if one does not pre-drill it. Ipe should be screwed together and should not be glued or nailed.

Maintenance: Ipe does not scratch or splinter easily, which means that it will maintain the structure’s integrity for over 25 years. However, it must be oiled to keep the original Ipe color. Repeat this procedure at least once per year, depending on the climate and sun exposure. If Ipe is not sanded or oiled, it will turn to a gray color, often referred to as a silver patina.

Preservation: Ipe does not require special treatment, as it will last for over 40 years without maintenance. However, the hardwood naturally weathers to a beautiful, silver-gray patina. A deck oil with UV inhibitors or sealers is an excellent option to maintain this rich tone.

Sustainable: The Forest Legality Initiative states that Ipe can be exported and traded internationally. The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN) does not list Ipe as an endangered species.

Brazilian Lumber, LLC meets high standards for social, economic, and environmental responsibility. We monitor and document the chain of custody of all our hardwoods. We are Lacy Act compliant, IBAMA certified, and provide -certified options. This means that purchasing from us fuels the hardwood lumber economy in South American forests and provides well-paying jobs for many people. In turn, this means the industry values its conservation and preservation.

Advantages of using Ipe Tropical Hardwood for your outdoor projects? 

• Strong and Durable
• Low Maintenance
• Natural Look
• Long Life Span
• Sustainably Sourced
• Boosts your Property Value

Please call us for the latest prices. We would be glad to confirm your order and make payment arrangements. Orders can be shipped directly to your home or job site. Please phone or email if you have freight questions. Call for pricing and availability. 1-877-606-3306.