Ipe and Trex are the two most-compared premium decking materials on the market. One is a tropical hardwood, one is a wood-plastic composite — but they target the same buyer: someone who wants decking that lasts and looks good. Here’s the honest comparison.
Quick Comparison: Ipe vs. Trex
| Factor | Ipe | Trex (composite) |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Natural tropical hardwood | Wood fiber + recycled plastic |
| Lifespan | 25–40+ years | 25–30 years (warranty) |
| Surface temp (full sun) | ~100–110°F | ~140–160°F |
| Appearance | Real wood grain, natural variation | Manufactured wood pattern |
| Janka hardness | 3,680 lbf | ~450 lbf equivalent |
| Maintenance | Annual oiling (optional) | Periodic washing |
| Installed cost | $25–40/sq ft | $20–35/sq ft |
| Fire rating | Class A | Class C (most products) |
| Microplastics | None | Yes (documented shedding) |
Surface Temperature: The Critical Difference
This is where composites consistently lose the comparison for pool decks and sun-exposed applications. Independent tests have measured Trex at 150°F+ on hot summer afternoons — hot enough to cause burns on bare feet. Ipe stays 20–50°F cooler under the same conditions because wood is a natural insulator.
Appearance: Natural vs. Manufactured
Trex approximates the look of wood. Up close, the difference between quality composite and real wood grain is visible. Ipe is the real thing — each board has unique grain patterns and natural variation. Ipe varies board-to-board — natural character that many buyers find more authentic and beautiful.
Durability and Scratch Resistance
Ipe’s Janka hardness of 3,680 lbf is roughly 8x higher than composite decking. This means real-world scratch and dent resistance that’s far superior. Heavy furniture, dropped tools, high heels — ipe handles these without marking. Trex composite can scratch and dent, and those marks are difficult to repair.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose ipe if: You want authentic real wood, maximum scratch resistance, the coolest possible surface temperature, or you’re near a pool or in a fire-prone area (Class A rating).
Choose Trex if: You prefer truly zero-maintenance decking, you’re in a shaded environment where heat isn’t a concern, or you strongly prefer uniform board appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ipe more expensive than Trex?
Ipe and Trex are priced similarly installed — typically $25–40/sq ft for both. Ipe’s longer lifespan and lack of board replacement costs often make it better long-term value.
Does Trex get hotter than ipe in the sun?
Yes, significantly. Composite decking like Trex has been measured at 150°F+ in direct summer sun. Ipe typically reaches 100–110°F under the same conditions — a 40–50°F difference that matters enormously around pools and for bare feet.