Tag Archives: ipe hardwood

How to Build a Horizontal Ipe Fence

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Ipe isn’t just for decking anymore. This versatile wood is perfect for a variety of outdoor projects because of its durability. Its strength and dimensional stability can make it a little harder to work with than other woods, but with a lifespan of 75 years, it’ll be worth it to put the little extra elbow grease into your project.

Today we’re going to show you how to build a fence out of Ipe. Not only will this give you added privacy, but it will look fantastic in your yard!

Picking the straightest boards will make the installation run smoothly.
Picking the straightest boards will make the installation run smoothly.

Step 1: pick out the straightest boards you can find from your shipment. This will make the fence building process easier.

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End sealing protects the board from warping and cracking over time.

Step 2: End seal your boards. This is going to keep the wood from cracking, splitting and warping over time.

Be sure to get accurate measurements to ensure easy installation.
Be sure to get accurate measurements to ensure easy installation.

Step 3: Measure where the board will overlap on the post. Mark the center of the overlapping part. This is where the board will be attached to the post. Make note of this measurement.

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Predrilling is important so you don’t crack the board.

Step 4: Use a 1/8” drill bit and 3/8” countersink bit to predrill a hole for the screw.

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Construction adhesive will give the deck board extra holding power.

Step 5: Apply some construction adhesive on the post. Allow the adhesive to dry before attaching the deck boards.

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Attach the first board to the post.

Step 6: Attach one end of the board to the post. Use a level and attach the board to the post.

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Be sure to obtain accurate measurements before you cut a groove into the board.

Step 7: Next, take a biscuit joiner, set it to the correct depth for the clip that you’re using. Practice on some scraps first so you don’t risk ruining an entire board.

Insert the ipe clips into the groove.
Insert the Ipe clips into the groove.

Step 8: Place the Ipe clip into the groove.

Don't forget to predrill!
Don’t forget to predrill!

Step 9: Use the drill bit from the Ipe clip complete kit and predrill at a 45° angle. Attach the screws.

Be sure to get accurate measurements to ensure easy installation.
Be sure to get accurate measurements to ensure easy installation.

Step 10: Take your measurements from the first board and mark the next board.

Repeat steps 4-9 until your fence is complete.

Insert wood glue into the hole before placing the plug in it.
Insert wood glue into the hole before placing the plug in it.

Step 11: Insert wood glue into the hole and use a hammer to tap the plug to fit securely.

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Cutting the ends of the plugs will yield a smoother surface

Step 12: Using a Flush Cut Saw, remove the extra piece of the plug so that it becomes flush with the board.

Sand down the plugs for a smooth surface.
Sand down the plugs for a smooth surface.

Step 13: Sand down the top of the plug with a 120 grit orbital sander for a smooth surface.

Here's the finished ipe fence.
Here’s the finished Ipe fence.

From here you have the option to oil the wood with Ipe Oil, or you can leave it untreated and allow it to weather to a natural gray.

***Pro Tip: Using an orbital sander leaves a smoother finish. Typical pad sanders will end up leaving scratches that become prominent as time