Hardwood Deck Materials: Ipe, Batu, Tigerwood and More
If you want to build a deck or upgrade your outdoor space, hardwood decking is a strong and beautiful choice. It combines strength, durability, and a natural look, making it perfect for homeowners who want a naturally beautiful deck. From lower decks to multi-level covered decks, hardwood adds elegance and longevity to every deck project.
Hardwood boards are usually oiled once a year to keep their rich brown color and protect the wood from sun, rain, and other harsh weather conditions. Most hardwood decks use 5/4×6 boards, with hidden screws for a smooth, clean finish. Hardwood requires more careful installation, but the result is a long-lasting, stunning deck.
Hardwood is naturally beautiful and strong, but it usually costs more than softwood. This is because it often comes from exotic sources and takes more work to install. Understanding hardwood vs softwood is important when planning your deck design or selecting materials for your deck project. Hardwood is dense, durable, and naturally resistant to insects, rot, and decay, making it a great choice for long-lasting outdoor spaces.
IPE DECKS
Ipe wood decking (pronounced ee-pay) is a popular choice among designers, architects, and deck builders for its sleek, rich look. Whether oiled or left untreated, Ipe offers a striking natural finish.
Ipe does not require chemical treatments because it is naturally resistant to insects, rot, and decay. When oiled, it retains its warm reddish-brown colour, enhancing the wood’s natural grain. Hardwood Ipe is also a fire resistant material, comparable to concrete or steel, making it an excellent choice for safe deck installation.
Janka Side Hardness LBS: 3,680
BATU DECKS
Batu decking offers the rich, classic look of Mahogany with shades ranging from medium red to deep red-brown. The grain is moderately fine and often interlocked, giving a smooth yet textured appearance.
Batu comes from different parts of Asia, with hundreds of species available. The most common are Red Balau, Yellow Balau, and Membatu. These woods come from countries that follow careful ecological and sustainable forestry practices. Batu is growing in popularity because its competitive pricing, beautiful finish, and long-term durability.
CUMARU DECKS
Cumaru decking is an extremely dense tropical hardwood known for exceptional performance and longevity. It features a distinct patina and fine grain, making it a top choice for deck builders focused on long-lasting quality.
Cumaru is naturally resistant to fire, insects, rot, and mildew. You can oil it to keep its warm color, or let it naturally turn a soft gray over time.. With a lifespan of up to 25 years, Cumaru is perfect for hardwood stairs, lower decks, or deck projects that demand strength and beauty
Janka Side Hardness LBS: 3,540
TIGERWOOD DECKS
Tigerwood is a striking Brazilian hardwood famous for its tiger-like stripes and luxurious appearance. It is one of the finest quality exotic woods available for deck installation. Tigerwood resists fire, insects, rot, and mildew. It can last over 25 years without chemical treatments.
This wood is ideal for custom deck plans and outdoor living spaces where style and durability matter. Its unique appearance ensures that every deck project is visually distinctive and naturally beautiful.
Janka Side Hardness LBS: 1,850
Why Choose Hardwood Decking?
- Durability: Hardwood decks are extremely strong, making them perfect for high-traffic areas, deck stairs, and multi-level designs.
- Long-lasting Beauty and Functionality: Exotic woods like Ipe, Batu, Cumaru, and Tigerwood stay naturally beautiful for decades.
- Versatility: Hardwood fits well with many deck designs. It works for lower decks, covered decks, and large outdoor living spaces.
- Expert Craftsmanship: Working with hardwood requires skill. Choosing experienced deck contractors ensures professional installation and long-term performance.
At Royal Decks and Landscapes, our team of skilled carpenters combines craftsmanship with high quality materials to create naturally beautiful decks. Whether you’re planning a custom deck, deck stairs, or a full deck project, we’ll help you design and build an outdoor space you’ll enjoy for years.
Contact us today to learn more about our hardwood decking options and start your next deck project with one of the top deck companies in the GTA.
