VS
Overall Winner: PVC Decking
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
exotic-wood
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood)
Price$12 – $25 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceLow
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
★ Winner
pvc
PVC Decking
Price$10 – $22 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceNone
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) (10/10)
=
PVC Decking (10/10)
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) (10/10)
←
PVC Decking (7/10)
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) (3/10)
→
PVC Decking (5/10)
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) (5/10)
→
PVC Decking (6/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood)
$9,600
to $18,000
PVC Decking
$9,000
to $17,100
★ Better Value
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
PVC Decking
Pros
- Completely waterproof — zero moisture absorption
- Will never rot, even in standing water
- Lightest weight decking option
- Resists mold and mildew
- Excellent for pool surrounds and lakefront
- Longest lifespan
Cons
- Most expensive option
- Can look more "plastic" than composite
- Expands/contracts with temperature
- Limited colour options vs composite
- Not made from natural materials
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Ipê (Brazilian Hardwood) if:
Luxury homes and commercial projects wanting the absolute best.
Choose PVC Decking if:
Waterfront properties, pool decks, or anyone wanting maximum durability.
