VS
exotic-wood
Cumaru
Price$8 – $16 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceLow
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
aluminum
Aluminum Decking
Price$15 – $30 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceNone
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Cumaru (9/10)
→
Aluminum Decking (10/10)
Cumaru (9/10)
←
Aluminum Decking (6/10)
Cumaru (5/10)
→
Aluminum Decking (7/10)
Cumaru (7/10)
←
Aluminum Decking (4/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Cumaru
$8,400
to $15,300
Aluminum Decking
$10,500
to $19,500
Cumaru
Pros
- Similar hardness to Ipê at lower cost
- Beautiful golden-brown tones
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- Very dense and durable
- More affordable exotic option
Cons
- Still expensive compared to domestic woods
- Imported — sustainability concerns
- Hard to work with — requires pre-drilling
- Can be inconsistent in colour
- Less well-known than Ipê
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
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Cumaru if:
Homeowners who want exotic hardwood looks at a lower price than Ipê.
Choose Aluminum Decking if:
Commercial, waterfront, or fire-prone areas needing maximum durability.
