The Pinnacle of Natural Decking
Exotic hardwoods like ipe, cumaru, tigerwood, and mahogany represent the absolute pinnacle of deck materials. These tropical hardwoods offer stunning natural beauty that no other material can replicate — rich colors, dramatic grain patterns, and a warm, luxurious feel underfoot. Their extreme density makes them incredibly durable, naturally resistant to rot, insects, and fire. An ipe deck is not just an outdoor space — it's a statement of quality and taste.
Incredible Natural Durability
Ipe, the most popular exotic decking hardwood, is so dense that it sinks in water. This extreme density gives it a Janka hardness rating of 3,680 — over three times harder than cedar and more durable than many composite products. It's naturally resistant to rot, decay, mold, and termites without any chemical treatment. Ipe is rated for 40-75 years of outdoor use, making it the longest-lasting natural decking material available.
Color & Weathering
Fresh ipe ranges from olive brown to dark chocolate with distinctive grain patterns that vary board to board. If maintained with annual oil application, it retains its rich warm tones indefinitely. If left untreated, it develops a beautiful silver-gray patina similar to aged teak — a look that many homeowners prefer. Other hardwood species offer different color palettes: cumaru provides golden-brown tones, tigerwood features dramatic striping, and mahogany delivers rich reddish hues.
Expert Installation Required
Hardwood decking requires specialized installation expertise that our team provides. The extreme density of these woods requires pre-drilling for every fastener, carbide-tipped saw blades for cutting, and specific acclimation procedures before installation. We use hidden fastener systems that create a smooth, screw-free surface. Our experience with hardwoods ensures your deck is installed correctly for maximum longevity and beauty.
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Contact us for a free consultation and estimate. We'll help you choose the perfect solution for your property.
Request Free Quote Or call (718) 354-9904Common Questions About Hardwood Deck Construction
How much does an ipe deck cost in Staten Island?
Ipe and exotic hardwood deck construction typically costs $60-$120 per square foot installed. A standard 12x16-foot ipe deck averages $11,520-$23,040. While the upfront cost is significant, ipe's 40-75 year lifespan makes it cost-effective per year of use.
How long does an ipe deck last?
Ipe decking lasts 40-75 years or more, making it the longest-lasting natural decking material. Its extreme density provides natural resistance to rot, insects, mold, and even fire. Many ipe boardwalks and commercial installations are still in excellent condition after 50+ years.
Does ipe need to be maintained?
Ipe can be left completely untreated and will naturally weather to an attractive silver-gray patina. If you prefer to maintain the rich brown color, apply an oil finish once a year. Either approach results in decades of excellent performance.