Comparison
Merbau vs Ipe: Outdoor Decking Comparison
Compare Merbau and Ipe decking for outdoor projects, including density, sourcing, appearance, and import planning.
2026-06-05 / 5 min read
Outdoor decking performance
Ipe is extremely dense and often specified for high-end outdoor decking. Merbau is also a dense hardwood and can be a practical option where Southeast Asian supply is preferred.
For both materials, moisture content, machining, and installation details strongly affect long-term results.
Both are dense hardwoods
Merbau offers Southeast Asia supply routes
Ipe can be harder to machine
Import planning
Buyers should compare lead time, legal documentation, container weight, profile options, and after-arrival conditioning.
Container weight check
Surface profile confirmation
Legal export documents