Does Ipe Wood Turn Grey? Features, Aging & Care

Does Ipe wood turn grey? — this is one of the most common questions asked by homeowners, architects, and landscapers when considering this luxurious hardwood for decking, siding, or outdoor furniture. Known for its durability and rich appearance, Ipe (pronounced “ee-pay”) is a top-tier choice for exterior applications. But like all natural woods, it undergoes changes when exposed to the elements.

What Is Ipe Wood?

Ipe is a tropical hardwood native to Central and South America, especially Brazil. It’s often referred to as Brazilian Walnut due to its deep brown color and exceptional hardness.

Key Features of Ipe Wood:

• Extreme durability — one of the hardest woods in the world (Janka rating ~3,500)
• Natural resistance to rot, insects, and mold
• Fire-resistant — comparable to concrete and steel
• Dense and heavy — requires pre-drilling for fasteners
• Rich color — typically dark brown with reddish or olive undertones

Does Ipe Wood Turn Grey?

Yes — Ipe wood turns grey over time if left untreated. This is a natural process caused by UV exposure and oxidation, not a sign of damage or decay.

Why Does It Happen?

• Sunlight (UV rays) breaks down the surface pigments
• Rain and moisture accelerate the weathering process
• Oxidation causes the wood to lose its original color

Timeline of Greying:

• First few months: slight fading begins
• 6–12 months: noticeable silver-grey patina develops
• Beyond 1 year: uniform grey tone if consistently exposed

How to Preserve Ipe’s Original Color

If you prefer the rich brown tones of fresh Ipe, regular maintenance is required.

Maintenance Tips:

• Apply UV-blocking oil (e.g., Ipe Oil or Penofin) every 6–12 months
• Clean the surface with wood cleaner before oiling
• Use a brightener to restore faded wood before re-treatment
• Avoid film-forming finishes — they can peel or crack

Optional: Let It Grey Naturally

Some homeowners embrace the silver-grey patina for a rustic or coastal aesthetic. It doesn’t affect the wood’s structural integrity.

Comparison with Other Woods

Does Ipe wood turn grey faster than others? Not necessarily — but its dramatic color shift is more noticeable due to its initial richness.

Cleaning & Restoration

If your Ipe deck has turned grey and you want to restore its original color:

1. Sweep and wash the surface with a wood cleaner
2. Apply a brightener to reverse UV damage
3. Rinse thoroughly
4. Let dry completely
5. Apply oil to revive the brown tones

This process can bring back much of the original warmth, especially if done annually.

Design Considerations

Whether you maintain Ipe’s color or let it grey, it remains a premium material for:

• Decks and patios
• Pool surrounds
• Facades and cladding
• Outdoor furniture
• Boardwalks and docks

Greyed Ipe offers a weathered elegance, while oiled Ipe delivers a luxurious richness — both are visually stunning.

Final Thoughts

So, does Ipe wood turn grey? Absolutely — if left to nature, it will develop a beautiful silver-grey patina. But with a little care, you can preserve its deep brown hues for years. Either way, Ipe remains one of the most durable and visually striking woods available for outdoor use.