What Are the Hardest Woods? A Guide to the Toughest Options for Your Deck

When it comes to building a deck, choosing the right wood species is crucial for durability, beauty, and longevity. Hardwoods are often the go-to choice for those looking to build a deck that can withstand the test of time and harsh weather conditions. But not all hardwoods are created equal—some are tougher than others, making them better suited for high-traffic areas and outdoor applications.

In this post, we’ll explore some of the hardest wood species available for decking, including Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Garapa, and Brazilian Redwood. These woods are not only known for their hardness but also for their stunning natural beauty.

1. Ipe

Janka Hardness Rating: 3,680 lbf

ipe wood porch
Ipe Wood Porch

Ipe, often referred to as Brazilian Walnut, is widely regarded as one of the hardest and most durable woods in the world. It is incredibly resistant to wear, rot, insects, and even fire, making it a top choice for decking and outdoor furniture. Its high density and strength are evident in its Janka Hardness Rating of 3,680 lbf (pounds-force), which measures its resistance to denting and wear.

Ipe’s rich, deep brown hues with natural grain patterns create an elegant and timeless look. It’s also known for its longevity—decks made of Ipe can last up to 75 years with minimal maintenance.

2. Cumaru

Janka Hardness Rating: 3,540 lbf

Cumaru Decking

Cumaru, also known as Brazilian Teak, is another incredibly hard and durable wood. With a Janka Hardness Rating of 3,540 lbf, it comes very close to Ipe in terms of toughness. Cumaru is resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestation, making it ideal for outdoor use.

In addition to its durability, Cumaru offers a beautiful range of colors from golden brown to reddish tones, often with unique striping patterns. Its striking appearance and long-lasting strength make it a popular choice for decking, siding, and flooring.

3. Tigerwood

Janka Hardness Rating: 2,160 lbf

Tigerwood Boat Dock


Tigerwood, known for its dramatic, exotic appearance, is slightly softer than Ipe and Cumaru but still incredibly durable. With a Janka Hardness Rating of 2,160 lbf, Tigerwood can withstand heavy foot traffic and extreme weather conditions. It’s resistant to rot, decay, and pests, making it an excellent option for decking and outdoor projects.

Tigerwood’s defining characteristic is its bold, tiger-like streaks of dark brown and black against a golden or reddish-brown backdrop. This unique look makes it a favorite among homeowners who want a deck that stands out.

4. Garapa

Janka Hardness Rating: 1,650 lbf

Garapa deck
Garapa Decking


Garapa, also known as Brazilian Ash, is another popular hardwood for outdoor use. Although it has a lower Janka Hardness Rating of 1,650 lbf compared to Ipe and Cumaru, it is still much harder and more durable than most domestic hardwoods. Garapa offers excellent resistance to rot, insects, and weathering, making it a reliable choice for decking and outdoor applications.

Garapa has a bright, golden-yellow appearance that darkens to a honey-brown over time. Its smooth, uniform texture and natural luster make it a visually appealing option for decks, while its lower density makes it easier to work with than some of the harder woods.

5. Brazilian Redwood (Massaranduba)

Janka Hardness Rating: 3,190 lbf

Brazilian Redwood Decking
Brazilian Redwood Decking

Brazilian Redwood, also known as Massaranduba, is a highly dense and durable wood with a Janka Hardness Rating of 3,190 lbf. Like the other hardwoods on this list, Brazilian Redwood is resistant to decay, insects, and moisture, making it an excellent choice for outdoor applications.

Brazilian Redwood has a deep reddish-brown color that can darken over time, giving it a rich, classic appearance. Its high strength and natural resistance to wear make it a long-lasting option for decking, siding, and outdoor furniture.

Why Hardness Matters

The hardness of a wood species is directly related to its durability and resistance to wear. A higher Janka Hardness Rating means the wood is more resistant to dents, scratches, and other forms of damage. This is especially important for outdoor decks that are exposed to foot traffic, furniture, and harsh weather conditions.

Conclusion

When choosing the right wood for your deck, it’s important to consider not only its appearance but also its durability. Hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, Tigerwood, Garapa, and Brazilian Redwood are among the toughest options available, each offering a unique combination of beauty and strength.

Whether you’re looking for the incredible durability of Ipe, the exotic patterns of Tigerwood, or the golden tones of Garapa, these woods will provide a long-lasting and visually stunning solution for your decking needs.

If you’re ready to invest in one of these hard, durable wood species, check out AdvantageLumber.com for a wide selection of premium hardwood decking options.

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