Ipe Cladding

Ipe cladding, often referred to as Brazilian Walnut or ‘ironwood’, is one of the most durable hardwoods available. Exceptionally dense and hard-wearing, it offers a lifespan of 50–75 years or more with minimal maintenance. Naturally resistant to rot, insects, and even fire, it performs reliably in the most demanding environments. As the premium option in our hardwood cladding range, Ipe is well-suited to high-end projects where long-term performance and a refined finish are essential.

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Yellow Balau - Shadow Gap - 140 x 18mm
From£70.41 m2 + VAT (£84.49)
£8.45 lm + VAT (£10.14)
Oak - Square edge - 200 x 18mm
From£61.11 m2 + VAT (£73.33)
£9.17 lm + VAT (£11.00)
Oak - Featheredge - 200 x 28/6mm
From£61.11 m2 + VAT (£73.33)
£9.17 lm + VAT (£11.00)
Ipe - Shadow gap - 140 x 18mm
From£74.99 m2 + VAT (£89.98)
£9.00 lm + VAT (£10.80)
Ipe - Shadow gap - 90 x 18mm
From£92.21 m2 + VAT (£110.65)
£6.45 lm + VAT (£7.75)
Oak - Shiplap - 140 x 18mm
From£81.20 m2 + VAT (£97.44)
£10.56 lm + VAT (£12.67)
Yellow Balau - 140 x 21mm - TG&V
From£66.00 m2 + VAT (£79.21)
£8.45 lm + VAT (£10.14)
Yellow Balau - Shiplap - 140 x 18mm
From£64.99 m2 + VAT (£77.99)
£8.45 lm + VAT (£10.14)
Cumaru - Shadow gap cladding - 145 x 18mm
From£65.57 m2 + VAT (£78.69)
£8.20 lm + VAT (£9.84)
Yellow Balau - Batten - PAR - 43 x 18mm
From£56.60 m2 + VAT (£67.92)
£3.00 lm + VAT (£3.60)
Yellow Balau - Batten - PAR - 65 x 18mm
From£68.08 m2 + VAT (£81.69)
£5.11 lm + VAT (£6.13)
Yellow Balau - Batten - Eased Edges - 43 x 18mm
From£56.71 m2 + VAT (£68.05)
£3.01 lm + VAT (£3.61)
Yellow Balau - Batten - Eased Edges - 65 x 18mm
From£56.77 m2 + VAT (£68.13)
£4.26 lm + VAT (£5.11)
Ipe Batten - PAR - 40 x 18mm
From£70.09 m2 + VAT (£84.11)
£3.50 lm + VAT (£4.21)
Ipe Batten - PAR - 63 x 18mm
From£67.88 m2 + VAT (£81.45)
£4.95 lm + VAT (£5.95)
Ipe - Batten - Eased Edges - 40 x 18mm
From£70.09 m2 + VAT (£84.11)
£3.50 lm + VAT (£4.21)
Ipe - Batten - Eased Edges - 63 x 18mm
From£67.88 m2 + VAT (£81.45)
£4.95 lm + VAT (£5.95)
Oak - Batten - PAR - 45 x 21mm
From£72.95 m2 + VAT (£87.54)
£4.01 lm + VAT (£4.81)
Oak - Batten - Eased edge - 70 x 21mm
From£72.12 m2 + VAT (£86.54)
£5.77 lm + VAT (£6.92)
Yellow Balau - Batten - PAR - 140 x 18mm
From£56.32 m2 + VAT (£67.59)
£8.45 lm + VAT (£10.14)
Oak - Castellated - 138 x 20mm
From£79.97 m2 + VAT (£95.96)
£10.56 lm + VAT (£12.67)
Oak - Batten - PAR - 70 x 21mm
From£72.12 m2 + VAT (£86.54)
£5.77 lm + VAT (£6.92)
Oak - Batten - Eased edge - 45 x 21mm
From£72.95 m2 + VAT (£87.54)
£4.01 lm + VAT (£4.81)
Oak - TG&V - 140mm x 21mm
From£82.47 m2 + VAT (£98.96)
£10.56 lm + VAT (£12.67)

The Benchmark for Hardwood Cladding

Ipe’s extreme density places it among the hardest timbers available, giving it exceptional resistance to wear and environmental exposure. Rated Class 1 for durability, Ipe can last 50–75 years or more, even in demanding conditions. It is regularly specified for commercial and public projects where materials are expected to perform for decades with minimal maintenance. 

For projects where compromise isn’t an option, Ipe consistently outperforms most alternative timber cladding options.

Performance in Demanding Environments

Ipe’s natural density and oil content provide exceptional resistance to moisture, rot, and insect attack, even in exposed external settings. It also offers greater stability than many other hardwoods, with minimal movement once installed. 

A further advantage is its inherent fire resistance, making it a strong choice for projects where safety and durability are both priorities. Whether used on coastal properties, high-traffic areas, or fully exposed facades, Ipe delivers consistent performance.

Long-Term Weathering

Ipe is known for its deep, rich brown tones, often with subtle red and olive variation, giving it a refined and consistent appearance. Compared to more varied hardwoods, it offers a more uniform finish once installed. 

Over time, if left untreated, Ipe will weather to a smooth silver-grey patina. For those looking to retain its original colour, a Treatex Rejuvenator oil can be applied. Whether maintained or left to age naturally, Ipe holds a high-quality appearance for decades.

Available Profiles & Applications

Ipe’s strength and refined appearance make it well-suited to high-end homes, commercial builds, and landscaping projects. While primarily used externally, it can also be brought inside to create a seamless finish across the wider design.

Our range of Ipe cladding is available in:

  • Shadow Gap: Creates an architectural finish with sharp lines and consistent spacing, ideal for contemporary designs.
  • Batten: Offers a more structured look with flexible spacing, often used for screening, facades, and feature walls.

Working With Ipe

Due to its extreme density, Ipe must always be pre-drilled before fixing to prevent splitting and ensure a secure installation. Its hardness means it requires the right tools and can be more demanding to work with, with blades and drill bits wearing more quickly than with softer timbers. 

Stainless steel fixings are essential to avoid corrosion and staining over time. Once installed correctly, Ipe offers excellent stability with minimal movement, resulting in a precise finish that holds its quality.

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A Premium Timber Cladding Option

With a lifespan in the region of 50–75 years, Ipe is often specified for projects where performance cannot be compromised. Trusted by architects, developers, and landscapers alike, it delivers long-term value through strength, stability, and minimal maintenance, giving complete confidence in the investment.

If you need help specifying Ipe cladding, from profiles and quantities to installation advice, our team is here to assist. Get in touch for practical guidance to ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

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Need More Help?

Does Ipe cladding require maintenance?

Ipe is naturally low-maintenance thanks to its density and high oil content. It can be left untreated and will gradually weather to a silver-grey finish over time. If you prefer to maintain its original rich colour, periodic oiling is recommended. Aside from this, general cleaning is usually all that’s required to keep it performing and looking its best.

How does Ipe compare to Cumaru and Balau?

All three are durable hardwoods, but they suit slightly different priorities. Ipe offers the highest density and longest lifespan, making it ideal for premium applications. Cumaru provides similar performance at a more accessible price point, with greater colour variation and character. Balau, while still very durable, is slightly less dense and often chosen for its balance of performance, consistency, and value. The right choice depends on your budget, desired appearance, and project requirements.

How long does Ipe cladding last?

Ipe is one of the longest-lasting timbers available, with a lifespan typically ranging from 50 to 75 years, even in exposed conditions. In some cases, it can last even longer with proper installation and basic care. This longevity makes it a popular choice for both residential and commercial projects.

Is Ipe difficult to install?

Ipe is harder to work with than most timbers due to its density, so pre-drilling is essential and high-quality tools are recommended. Stainless steel fixings should always be used to prevent staining and corrosion. While it can be more labour-intensive to install, experienced tradespeople will be familiar with these requirements, and the result is a highly stable cladding system.

Is Ipe the best timber for cladding?

Ipe is often used as a benchmark for hardwood cladding due to its density, longevity, and resistance to the elements. While ‘best’ will depend on budget and design preferences, Ipe is typically chosen for high-spec projects where performance and lifespan are the priority. Other hardwoods like Oak, Cumaru, and Balau offer strong alternatives, but Ipe generally sits at the top in terms of overall durability.

What is Ipe cladding?

Ipe cladding is made from an ultra-dense South American hardwood, often referred to as ‘ironwood’ due to its exceptional strength and widely considered one of the highest-performing timbers available for external cladding.

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