How much does Ipe wood decking cost?
How much does Ipe wood decking cost?
$50 – $70 average cost per square foot installed
$7,200 – $10,100 average cost to build (12'x12')
$20,000 – $28,000 average cost to build (20'x20')
Ipe decking cost
Ipe decking costs $50 to $70 per square foot installed. A 12'x12' Ipe wood deck costs $7,200 to $10,100 to build, while a 20'x 20' deck costs $20,000 to $28,000. Ipe wood decking costs more than most other materials but is a highly durable, dense tropical hardwood that naturally resists rot and termites.
| Deck size (in feet) | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| 10x10 | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| 12x12 | $7,200 – $10,100 |
| 12x14 | $8,400 – $11,800 |
| 14x14 | $9,800 – $13,700 |
| 14x16 | $11,200 – $15,700 |
| 16x20 | $16,000 – $22,400 |
| 20x20 | $20,000 – 28,000 |
Ipe decking, pronounced “ee-pay,” is a Brazilian hardwood known for its reddish-brown color and natural resistance to rot, insects, and harsh weather conditions.
Ipe deck cost factors
Ipe tropical wood is a very dense hardwood that typically requires professional installation and specialized tools to install. Factors that influence the installation costs include:
Deck size – The larger your deck, the more you'll spend on materials and labor.
Deck complexity – Floating and ground-level decks are cheaper and easier to build. Elevated, second-story, and multi-level decks take longer to build and require additional safety measures.
Replacement vs. new installation – Replacing an old deck has additional costs to remove and haul away old decking.
Pool decking – Building your deck around a pool requires adding a safety fence.
Climate – The frost line depth in your area dictates the depth of concrete support footers, increasing costs in cold climates.
Site prep – Most deck projects require leveling the yard, which costs $500 to $1,000, depending on the deck size. For elevated or second-story decks, consider installing a gravel base to promote better drainage.
Drainage – Adding a custom-built trough and downspout system costs more but keeps the porch below dry when it rains.
Ipe decking materials
Ipe decking prices are $10 to $15 per square foot on average for the boards alone. Higher-quality boards can cost $20 per square foot or more.
Labor and installation costs
Installation labor for Ipe wood decking ranges from $20 to $45 per square foot, depending on the installer's experience and labor rates in your area. Other material and labor costs that add to the total deck installation cost include:
Foundation – A concrete slab foundation costs $6 to $12 per square foot and is required unless you are building a floating deck or already have a foundation in place.
Deck railing – A deck railing costs $20 to $50 per linear foot, with an Ipe wood safety railing falling at the higher end of that range.
Deck stairs – Elevated or second-story decks also require access stairs costing $20 to $30 per linear foot, plus added costs for a concrete stairway footing. Prices increase depending on the size of the stairs and the need for excavation.
Deck cover – The cost to cover a deck ranges from $10 to $60 per square foot, depending on the type of deck roofing used.
Deck finishing – Ipe wood does not require staining but can be sealed every 1 to 2 years with a UV protectant finish if you prefer the original dark hues rather than the gray tones of aging Ipe. Deck sealing costs $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot.
Permits – Permits cost $50 to $150 when required.
Ipe decking pros and cons
Ipe decking, renowned for its durability and rich look, is a popular choice for outdoor decking. However, like any material, there are pros and cons to consider when choosing this wood for your decking project.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Cost of Ipe vs. composite decking
Ipe and composite decking are both popular choices for outdoor decks, but they have different price points and features. Composite decking costs $40 to $80 per square foot installed. This more affordable option is prone to scratches, stains, and wear, especially when choosing materials at the lower end of the price range.
In contrast, Ipe is a more expensive material that is known for its high-end look. It is also sustainable and durable, capable of lasting 50 to 75 years.
| Factor | Ipe decking | Composite decking |
|---|---|---|
| Installed cost | $50 – $70 per square foot | $40 – $80 per square foot |
| Installation | Requires specialized tools and expertise for installation due to its density and hardness | Lightweight and easier to install using standard woodworking tools, with a straightforward installation |
| Durability | Extremely durable and resistant to rot, insects, decay, and harsh weather conditions | Durability varies based on the quality of the composite material, with the cheapest composites being the least durable. |
| Fading | Tends to maintain its rich, dark brown color but may weather to an attractive silver-gray in sunny areas | Prone to fading, but higher quality composites may have UV-resistant coatings to mitigate fading |
| Sustainability | Ipe is typically harvested from sustainably managed forests. | Recycled materials can be more environmentally friendly, but the manufacturing process can raise environmental concerns. |
Ipe decking FAQs
What is Ipe decking?
Ipe decking, also known as Brazilian walnut, is a dense, hardwood native to South America. It is prized for its exceptional durability, natural beauty, and minimal maintenance requirements. Ipe decking is a popular outdoor decking material, despite its high initial cost.
Is Ipe decking worth the cost?
Overall, Ipe decking is an excellent choice that is worth the cost for homeowners looking for a durable, low-maintenance, and sustainable deck material.
How long does Ipe decking last?
Ipe decking can last for up to 75 years with minimal upkeep. Ipe's exceptional durability is due to its high oil content and dense grain structure that is resistant to rot, insects, and fire. Ipe can withstand the harshest weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and humidity.
Can I power wash an Ipe deck?
Most professionals agree that you should not power wash your Ipe decking as it can roughen the surface and damage the wood unless the pressure is kept below 1200 psi. The most effective cleaner for Ipe decking is a solution made from water and Oxiclean applied with a natural bristle brush or sponge.
Can you stain Ipe decking?
While technically you can stain Ipe decking, it's not the easiest or most recommended option. Ipe is incredibly dense and is unlikely to absorb stains evenly, requiring more effort and multiple coats. Many people prefer instead to let the Ipe develop a natural silver-gray patina over time.
Getting estimates from deck installers
Before selecting a deck builder near you, make sure to:
Review at least 3 bids from licensed, bonded, and insured deck contractors.
Check for certifications such as membership in the North American Deck and Railing Association.
Confirm they have experience working with Ipe wood.
Select from deck contractors with the best reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Don't choose a contractor based on price alone; consider the construction quality and professionalism as well.
Questions to ask an Ipe deck contractor
Ask the following questions when bringing in a contractor to install your Ipe wood deck:
How many years have you been building decks?
Do you have references or a portfolio of previous decking projects?
What experience do you have working with Brazilian Ipe wood?
Will a warranty or guarantee cover your work?
Will you obtain the necessary permits?
Does your deck estimate include labor, materials, delivery, and cleanup?
Do you handle the breakdown and removal of my old deck?
Are your workers or subcontractors all insured and licensed?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.