How to bring your ipe decking back to life (and colour)
If your ipe decking has turned grey, don't worry: it isn't damaged. As a family business that works with this timber every day, we know that grey patina is one of the things that worries people most and one of the easiest to fix. Here is the step-by-step guide to bringing back its original reddish-brown tone.
Why it turns grey (and why that isn't a problem)
The sun breaks down the lignin at the surface of the timber and leaves a thin silvery-grey layer. And here is the important part: that layer does not affect the strength of your ipe. Underneath, it is as solid as it was on day one. It is purely cosmetic. So if you like the grey tone, you can leave it as it is. If you prefer the original colour, read on.
What you will need
- A specific cleaner for tropical hardwoods.
- Ipe oil, ideally with a UV filter.
- A pressure washer on a low setting, or a hose.
- A stiff-bristled brush (never metal, it would mark the timber).
- A wide brush or roller.
- Dry cotton cloths.
Step by step
1. Clean and lift the grey
Wet the timber, apply the cleaner and scrub with the brush along the grain. Rinse at moderate pressure (80 bar maximum, nozzle about 30 cm away) so you don't splinter the fibre. You will see the real colour come through underneath.
2. Let it dry. Properly.
This is the step almost everyone skips, and the one that makes the difference. Wait 24 to 48 hours. If you oil the timber while it is still damp, the product won't penetrate and dark patches will appear within weeks. Be patient here and you will save yourself doing the job twice.
BEFORE (weathered timber)
AFTER (oiled timber)
3. Feed it with oil
Apply a thin, even coat with the brush. Let the timber absorb it for about 15 minutes and, very importantly, wipe off the excess with a dry cloth so the surface isn't left tacky. Ipe is dense: it doesn't need to be flooded with oil, just a well-spread coat.
A warning few people give: oily cloths can self-ignite if you pile them up. When you finish, spread them out in the open to dry completely, or soak them before throwing them away. Never leave them balled up in a closed bin.
Making it last
- Once a year is enough, ideally before summer, when the timber takes the most punishment.
- Day to day: water and neutral soap. No abrasive products.
- Choose the oil well: make sure it has a good UV filter, or the colour will last half as long.
Frequently asked questions
Why does ipe turn grey?
Because of the sun's UV rays, which break down the surface. It is cosmetic: the timber is just as strong underneath.
How often should it be oiled?
Once a year in most cases. If it is very exposed to the sun or gets a lot of traffic, go over it every six months.
Can a badly neglected deck be saved?
Almost always, yes. Even after years of neglect, a good scrub (or a light sanding) and oiling will bring the colour back. If you are unsure about yours, send us a photo and we will tell you what it needs.
Starting a new project?
The best maintenance starts with good timber. If you are looking for ipe that stands up to time with minimal movement, we work it with a finger-joint construction precisely for that stability. You can see it in our outdoor decking.
And if any questions come up about your decking, write to us at info@kamikspace.com.
Natalia · Kamik Space
