Best Hardwood for Decking: 7 Species Compared

Quick answer: Ipe is the best overall hardwood for decking — the densest, longest-lasting (often 40+ years) and most fire- and rot-resistant option. Cumaru offers similar performance for roughly 20–30% less. Garapa is the best choice for a lighter golden color and cooler surface, and Tigerwood gives the most dramatic striped look but needs careful drying and finishing.

Quick comparison table

| Species | Janka hardness (lbf) | Typical lifespan | Stability | Relative cost | |---|---|---|---|---| | Ipe | ~3,500 | 40+ years | Very good | $$$$ | | Cumaru | ~3,300 | 25–40 years | Good (moves more than Ipe) | $$$ | | Garapa | ~1,700 | 25+ years | Very good | $$ | | Tigerwood (Goncalo Alves) | ~2,100 | 25+ years | Good | $$–$$$ | | Massaranduba | ~3,200 | 25+ years | Fair — prone to checking | $$ | | Batu / Balau | ~1,800 | 20+ years | Good | $$ | | Thermally modified ash | ~1,300 | 25+ years | Excellent | $$–$$$ |

How we evaluate decking species

EHCI evaluates species on five criteria: density and hardness, natural decay resistance, dimensional stability, fire performance and availability of legally verified supply. Every species can perform well — or fail early — depending on installation, which is why we recommend using a certified installer.

Ipe

The benchmark exterior hardwood. Class A fire rating in many tests, highly resistant to rot and insects, and extremely stable once acclimated. Downsides: cost, weight, and it requires pre-drilling and end sealing. Read the Ipe installation guide or the Ipe species profile.

Cumaru

Often called "Brazilian teak." Nearly as hard as Ipe with a warmer reddish-brown color. It shrinks and swells more than Ipe, so correct acclimation and gapping matter more. A strong value pick for residential decks.

Garapa

A lighter golden-honey species that stays cooler underfoot in sun. Softer than Ipe but very stable and easier to machine. Good for pool surrounds and homeowners who want a light look.

Tigerwood

Striking dark-streaked grain. Oily wood that benefits from a first finish soon after installation. Common problems — surface checking and color shift — are almost always drying and finish-related.

Other species worth considering

Massaranduba is dense and affordable but checks readily if not end-sealed. Batu is an economical Southeast Asian option. Thermally modified woods offer excellent stability with a lower density.

How long does a hardwood deck last?

A properly installed and ventilated Ipe deck commonly lasts 40–75 years; Cumaru, Garapa and Tigerwood typically last 25+ years. Lifespan depends more on substructure, ventilation and fastening than on the species alone.

Choosing a species for your climate

• Hot, sunny sites: Garapa or thermally modified wood for cooler surface temperature.
• Humid or coastal: Ipe or Cumaru for decay resistance; use 316 stainless fasteners.
• Wildfire zones: Ipe, which has documented Class A flame-spread performance.
• Low-profile or rooftop decks: the most stable species, plus maximum ventilation.

Explore every species in the EHCI Species Library.

FAQ

What is the best hardwood for decking?

Ipe is generally considered the best hardwood for decking because of its extreme density, 40+ year lifespan, and natural resistance to rot, insects and fire.

Is Cumaru as good as Ipe?

Cumaru is nearly as hard and durable as Ipe and costs less, but it moves more with moisture changes, so acclimation and proper gapping are more important.

Which hardwood decking stays coolest in the sun?

Lighter species such as Garapa and thermally modified woods stay cooler underfoot than dark species like Ipe.

How long does a hardwood deck last?

A well-built Ipe deck can last 40 years or more; most other tropical hardwoods last 25 years or longer when installed and ventilated correctly.