Built for salt air, tropical humidity and High-Velocity Hurricane Zone code — Ipe decking is the highest-density hardwood on the market, engineered to outlast Florida's climate for 30+ years with minimal upkeep.
Between year-round humidity, intense UV, salt air on the coast, and hurricane wind-load codes, Florida is one of the harshest environments in the country for outdoor decking. Ipe is engineered by nature to take it.
Florida's intense sun degrades most composites over time. Ipe's dense natural oils resist UV breakdown, warping and cupping — even on unshaded, south-facing decks.
Coastal humidity and salt spray corrode fasteners and rot softer woods. Ipe's tight grain keeps moisture out, making it a top choice for waterfront and pool decks.
Ipe's density and strength class D60 make it a strong fit for structures that need to meet Florida Building Code wind-uplift requirements in coastal and HVHZ counties.
Florida's climate is ideal for termites and wood-boring insects. Ipe's natural density makes it virtually impenetrable, with no chemical treatment required.
A side-by-side look at how the three most common decking materials perform under Florida-specific conditions: heat, humidity, salt air and hurricane exposure.
| Property | Ipe Hardwood | Composite | PVC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expected lifespan in FL climate | 25–30+ years | 15–25 years | 20–25 years |
| Surface heat in direct sun | Stays cooler underfoot | Can run hot | Runs hottest |
| Salt air / coastal resistance | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Mold & mildew resistance (humidity) | Excellent | Good, needs cleaning | Good |
| Termite resistance | Natural, no treatment | Yes | Yes |
| Wind-load / structural strength | D60, very high | Moderate | Lower |
| Annual maintenance | Oil once a year (optional) | Occasional wash | Minimal |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Mid-range | Mid-range |
Floorboards, beams and posts in the most popular Ipe dimensions — delivered anywhere in Florida, from Miami to the Panhandle.
From the Keys to the Panhandle, we ship Ipe decking materials statewide — with regular deliveries into the major coastal and metro markets below.
Don't see your city? We deliver Ipe decking anywhere in Florida — get a shipping estimate for your address.
Pool decks, waterfront docks and lanai upgrades built with Ipe hardwood — click any photo to enlarge.
Coastal and High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) counties like Miami-Dade and Broward hold decking and structural fastening to some of the strictest wind-load standards in the U.S. Ipe's strength class supports installations designed to meet that bar.
"Our pool deck gets brutal afternoon sun and salt air off the bay. Two years in and the Ipe still looks brand new — best decking decision we made."
"After hurricane season last year, our neighbor's composite deck warped and ours didn't move an inch. The clip system made installation clean too."
"Delivery to the Keys was smooth and the boards arrived exactly as described. Dense, heavy, real hardwood — you can feel the quality immediately."
Get a free project quote and expert guidance from our decking specialists — Florida delivery included.
