Is there a difference between garapa wood and ipe wood?
The short answer to this question is yes. Although similar, garapa wood and ipe wood don’t have all the same characteristics. So which one should you use for your project?
We’ve put together this guide to help you find out.
Let’s get started!
Garapa Wood vs Ipe Wood: Which One Is Better?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It all depends on how you plan to use the wood.
While ipe wood may work better than garapa (and vice versa) for some homeowners, that doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for every project. You should spend some time researching both types of woods so you get more familiar with their pros and cons before you choose anything.
We’ve put together a quick breakdown below to help you get started.
The Differences Between Garapa and Ipe Wood
Garapa wood and ipe wood are actually more similar than they are different. However, there are a few important differences you should know if you’re trying to pick between the two.
Durability
Both garapa and ipe are more durable than many other types of wood. They can both withstand a lot of weight, heavy foot traffic, food and drink spills, etc.
However, ipe wood is much harder than garapa, meaning it is also much stronger. If you’re building a deck or a fence that’s going to take a lot of wear and tear, ipe wood will hold up to this use better (and longer) than garapa.
Color
Ipe comes in a lot of different shades, but these shades are all different types of brown, such as light brown, dark brown, and olive brown.
Garapa wood, on the other hand, tends to be much lighter. You can find garapa in light yellows, a range of amber shades, and bronze.
Price
The price is one of the biggest differences you’ll find between these two types of wood. Ipe is much more expensive than garapa.
For example, tends to cost about $22 per square foot (at the lowest—it can get much higher) while garapa is almost always below $20 per square foot. This makes garapa a much more affordable option for people who don’t have a lot of flexibility in their budget.
Maintenace
Since both these types of wood are so hard and durable, they also don’t require that much attention on your part.
The only thing you’ll have to do is restain them every few years to keep their natural color from fading. This is especially important for ipe since the color will change from a brown to a silver-grey over time without proper staining).
Other than that, you can sit back and enjoy your deck (or whatever else you decide to build). Ipe and garapa are both resistant to fire, pests, mold, and rot. However, since garapa isn’t as strong as ipe, it is more likely to experience damage from these things.
Lifespan
Ipe will last a lot longer than garapa wood. That said, garapa still has a longer lifespan than many other types of woods commonly used for decks or fences.
Because of this, if you can’t afford ipe wood, garapa makes a good alternative.
How to Choose Between the Two
Once you know the differences between ipe wood and garapa wood, you can decide which characteristics best fit with the project you’re working on. If you’re not sure how to narrow it down, start by asking yourself these questions.
What Are You Using It For?
Are you making a deck? Putting up a fence? Hanging siding on your home?
Each of these projects requires different things from the wood. For example, a deck will get a lot of foot traffic and use while siding needs to be lightweight so it’s easier to hang.
If you’re making a deck, ipe wood (since it’s stronger and can withstand more use) is probably a better option. But if you’re building a deck or hanging siding, you don’t need such durable wood. Garapa wood will do the trick and help you save.
What Is Your Budget?
You shouldn’t buy ipe wood if you cant afford it. Going into debt over a deck isn’t worth it.
Garapa wood is still more durable and longer-lasting than many other types of wood. So you can save money (without losing too much quality) by buying garapa wood instead.
What Color Works Better for Your Home?
Although the stain you choose can change the color somewhat, you’ll still want to pick a wood that matches the style and color of the rest of your home. Otherwise, your deck or fence will feel out of place and look awkward.
If a lighter color fits the aesthetic of your home better than a darker color, you might want to consider garapa wood.
Which One Do You Like Better?
Finally, think about which type of wood you like better. After all, you’ll have to live with this deck or fence (or other structure) for as long as you live in the house. If you really don’t like how garapa wood looks, it might be worth spending the extra money on ipe.
Let the Building Begin
Picking between garapa wood and ipe wood might seem like a complicated choice, but if you follow this guide, you’ll be able to make the best choice for your project.
So what are you waiting for?
Make sure you take a look at our store to start shopping for garapa and ipe wood today! You can also get in touch with us if you have any questions.