How Does Ipe Hardwood Decking and Siding Weather?

Are you considering using high density Ipe hardwood for your decking or siding project?  Lots of people want to know what Ipe decking or Ipe siding will look like after a few years. When they first consider using Ipe hardwood for their project, about half of our clients want to let the hardwood age to a ‘weathered wood’, silvery gray appearance. The other half want to maintain the ‘like new’ wood appearance. Because Ipe is an extremely durable and long lasting exterior hardwood, either option will work well.

Low maintenance option allows exterior hardwood to age naturally over time

Many of our clients choose Ipe decking or Ipe siding for their project because of its well-earned reputation for natural beauty, exceptional strength and high durability. We have learned that all durable Mataverde hardwood decking and siding species will eventually mellow out to a silvery ‘driftwood’ color if allowed to fully weather. Ipe is no exception, and because it has natural strength, and other remarkable performance properties, Ipe hardwood will still last exceptionally well, even without additional maintenance coats over time. 

If natural gray weathering is your goal, this low maintenance, weathered wood option works great. Or, if the like new wood look is your preference, that works, too. Simply refinish the Ipe decking or siding whenever you feel it needs refreshing.

Here’s what Ipe hardwood decking or siding typically looks like over time:

SEE OUR REAL TIME 15-YEAR WEATHERING TEST DONE RIGHT HERE AT OUR CONNECTICUT HQ IN ALL KINDS OF NEW ENGLAND WEATHER. WATCH THIS VIDEO OF IPE VS. OTHER POPULAR DECKING WOOD OPTIONS. 

Here are wood decking and siding finishing tips for best results.

Step 1: ALWAYS acclimate your exterior Ipe hardwood properly on site. Before you install it. Is it a little extra work? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely.

Step 2: ALWAYS seal your Ipe hardwood with an initial coat of a UV inhibiting finish, before installing. This helps protect your wood surface while it adjusts to its new location. It helps minimize surface checking. A UV inhibitor will protect your exterior hardwood in much the same way as suntan lotion protects your skin on the first trip to the beach. Painlessly. For your convenience, Mataverde Ipe hardwood decking and siding are available pre-finished - or you can finish it on site. Check out the finishing and pre-finishing options here.

Step 3: After the first coat of UV inhibiting protection wears off, you have two basic options: let the Ipe hardwood weather to an eventual gray, or refinish it appropriately.

Whichever option you choose, you’re in luck. You can change your mind at any time. For a quick and informative tutorial, Download the Free Guidebook: “How Woods Weather”.