VS
Overall Winner: Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood)
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
aluminum
Aluminum Decking
Price$15 – $30 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceNone
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
★ Winner
exotic-wood
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood)
Price$12 – $25 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceLow
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Aluminum Decking (10/10)
=
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) (10/10)
Aluminum Decking (6/10)
→
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) (10/10)
Aluminum Decking (7/10)
←
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) (3/10)
Aluminum Decking (4/10)
→
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) (5/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Aluminum Decking
$10,500
to $19,500
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood)
$9,600
to $18,000
★ Better Value
Aluminum Decking
Pros
- Completely fireproof (ideal for fire-prone areas)
- Will never rot, warp, crack, or splinter
- 100% recyclable — eco-friendly lifecycle
- Zero maintenance required
- Cool to touch in direct sun
- Lightweight yet extremely strong
Cons
- High upfront cost
- Modern/industrial look — not for everyone
- Limited colour and style options
- Can dent from heavy impacts
- Fewer contractors experienced with aluminum
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood)
Pros
- Hardest and most durable decking wood
- Stunning natural beauty
- Fire resistant (Class A)
- Naturally resistant to insects and rot
- Can last 75+ years
- Increases home value significantly
Cons
- Very expensive material
- Extremely hard — difficult to work with
- Requires specialized installation
- Imported — environmental concerns
- Heavy — needs strong substructure
- Can be slippery when wet
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Aluminum Decking if:
Commercial, waterfront, or fire-prone areas needing maximum durability.
Choose Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) if:
Luxury homes and commercial projects wanting the absolute best.
