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20 March, 2025
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Sanding UK
Ask anyone who has a deck at home, and they’ll likely tell you it’s one of the best upgrades they’ve made. A well-designed deck turns your garden or outdoor space into a personal retreat — perfect for sunny days, family gatherings, or simply relaxing in comfort without leaving your home. That’s why planning a decking installation carefully and choosing high-quality materials is essential for long-term enjoyment and value.
Among the many options available, Ipe decking stands out as one of the most popular and durable choices. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Ipe so highly regarded, review its pros and cons, and most importantly — break down how much Ipe decking costs, so you can budget wisely and plan your project with confidence.
What Is Ipe Decking?
Ipe decking refers to an exceptionally durable hardwood surface made from Ipe wood — a tropical species known for its impressive strength and longevity. Naturally ranging in colour from yellowish olive to deep, dark brown, Ipe wood offers a rich appearance that beautifully complements outdoor spaces and garden designs.
Often referred to as “ironwood,” Ipe has earned its reputation for being nearly indestructible. It features remarkable resistance to moisture, insect damage, temperature changes, and even fire. Unlike softer woods that may warp or crack over time, Ipe stands up to extreme weather conditions and heavy foot traffic without compromising its structure or beauty.
This makes it one of the best hardwood choices for outdoor decking. Whether it’s exposed to year-round rain, direct sun, or the wear and tear of everyday use, Ipe decking maintains its strength and appeal for decades — often lasting over 40 years with proper care. Simply put, few materials can compete with the endurance and performance of Ipe in exterior environments.
How to Measure Your Deck
Before you purchase any materials for your decking installation, it’s essential to accurately measure your deck area. Taking the time to calculate how much Ipe decking you’ll need not only helps you stay within budget but also ensures a smoother installation with fewer surprises.
Measuring is straightforward. Start by determining the width and length of the area you want to cover. Multiply these two figures to calculate the total surface area in square metres (or square feet, depending on your location). For example, a deck that is 5 metres wide and 4 metres long would require 20 square metres of decking.
To ensure you don’t run short, always add an extra 5% to 10% to your total for cutting waste, offcuts, and fitting adjustments. This buffer accounts for trimming boards and working around angles, posts, or obstacles — giving you confidence to order the right amount of Ipe decking the first time.
How to Calculate the Price of Your Decking
The total cost of your Ipe decking project depends on several key factors, starting with the price of the decking boards themselves. Ipe is a premium hardwood, so prices are typically higher than softwood or composite alternatives — but the material’s long lifespan and low maintenance make it a cost-effective investment over time.
To estimate your budget, you first need to know how many square metres (or feet) of decking you require. Most manufacturers and suppliers offer an online decking calculator — a simple tool that lets you input your deck’s width and length to quickly determine material requirements and cost. From there, you can multiply the total area by the price per m² of Ipe boards, which often ranges based on thickness and profile.
Don’t forget to include additional costs such as:
- Installation or labour (if not DIY)
- Subframe and joists
- Fixings, screws, or hidden fasteners
- Decking oil or sealer for surface protection
- Optional features like balustrades or steps
Adding these extras to your budget will give you a more realistic picture of the full project cost and help you plan efficiently. And if you are ordering from a specialist supplier, don’t hesitate to request a full quote — many will guide you through the entire pricing process.