Wooden fence slats in Ipe hardwood

Our fence slats are Ipe hardwood, 21 mm thick and 50, 70 or 90 mm wide. For a bolder look there are 40 x 40 mm battens. All slats are fitted horizontally on 60 x 60 mm Azobé posts, with hidden clips in the side groove and a click joint at the ends. An EPDM membrane behind the slats adds privacy and reduces noise.

Free Clips & Screws Included Premium Ipe Hardwood Built for 25+ Years Outdoors
Modern garden with wooden fence slats of Ipe installed next to a swimming pool
A-Grade Quality

Ipe slatted fencing with 50 mm slats

Ipe - 5.0 cm
 Hidden clip fixing
 All-in-one delivery

Modern horizontal Ipe slatting creates a stylish privacy fence in the garden
A-Grade Quality

Ipe slatted fencing with 90 mm slats

Ipe - 9.0 cm
 Hidden clip fixing
 All-in-one delivery

Modern wood fence slats made of Ipe beside a garden room and lush border
A-Grade Quality

Ipe slatted fencing with 70 mm slats

Ipe - 7.0 cm
 Hidden clip fixing
 All-in-one delivery

Modern horizontal slat fence made from durable Ipe wood in various slat widths

Ipe fencing with mixed slat widths

Ipe - Mix with
 Hidden clip fixing
 All-in-one delivery

Calculation tool

Calculate your dream garden with the calculation tool.

Calculate my project

Modern fence slats made of horizontal Ipe hardwood battens in a garden
A-Grade Quality

Modern Ipe Hardwood Batten Fencing (4x4 cm)

 Ipe 4.0 x 4.0 cm slats
Free backing membrane
All-in-one  delivery

Garden fence built with horizontal Ipe wood slats on a modern paved patio

Single-sided Ipe batten fence

 Ipe 4.0 x 4.0 cm slats
Free backing membrane
All-in-one delivery

Calculation tool

Calculate your dream garden with the calculation tool.

Calculate my project

Modern Ipe hardwood barcode fence installed vertically beside a garden bench
Vertical Fence | A-Grade Quality

Vertical Ipe barcode fence

Solid & private
Modern barcode cladding
All-in-one delivery

Ipe low slatted fence installed on top of a white garden wall on a paved patio
A-Grade Quality

Low Ipe slatted fence with EPDM liner

 Ipe slatted fencing
Invisible clips 
Modern wall design

Calculation tool

Calculate your dream garden with the calculation tool.

Calculate my project

Ipe low batten fence with 40 x 40 mm battens on a low wall at a street corner
A-Grade Quality

Low modern Ipe slatted fence

 Ipe slatted fencing
Invisible clips 
Modern feature

Refitting an old wooden fence with horizontal Ipe hardwood slats and clips
Refit | A-Grade Quality

Clad your old fence with Ipe slats

 All-in-one complete kit
 Transform your fence
 Old fence look brand new

Modern house exterior with vertical Ipe cladding on the balcony and gable
FACADE CLADDING

Ipe wood cladding

 sustainable Ipe   
Wood click system  
Mixed lengths  
   
Thickness: 2.1 cm
Width: 5.0 - 7.0 or 9.0 cm
Modern garden wall made of horizontal Ipe wooden slats under a dark pergola

Ipe slatted wall with 40 x 40 mm battens

 Long slatted bars  
 Very luxurious  
Fully enclosed  
   
Length: Long lengths
Free: Clip + Screws

Calculation tool

Calculate your dream garden with the calculation tool.

Calculate my project

Calculation tool

Calculate your dream garden with the calculation tool.

Calculate my project

Modern metal gate with wood slats made of durable Ipe between garden walls
4.0 x 4.0 cm slats

Ipe gate modern - 4.0 x 4.0 single-sided

 Building kit  
Steal frame  
1 side bars  
   
Thickness: 7.0 cm
With m1: 1.00- 1.20- 1.50
Hight m1: 1.90 up to 2.10
Free: Screws
A modern metal gate with wood slats in durable Ipe next to a matching fence
4.0 x 4.0 cm slats

Double-sided Ipe batten gate

 Building kit  
Steal frame  
2 side bars  
   
Thick: 11 cm
With m1: 1.00- 1.20- 1.50
Hight m1: 1.90 up to 2.10
Free: Screws + Epdm cloth
A bespoke Ipe garden gate with a black metal frame fitted in a paved alley
Made to measure

Bespoke Ipe garden gate

 Made to measure
 Steel frame
 Price on request

Modern wooden garden gate made of Ipe slats mounted next to a matching fence
5.0 cm slats

Ipe garden gate with 50 mm slats

 Building kit  
 Steal frame  
 2 sides slats  
   
Thick: 7.0 cm
With m1: 1.00- 1.20-1.50
Hight m1: 1.85 up to 2.10
Free: Clip + Screws

Calculation tool

Calculate your dream garden with the calculation tool.

Calculate my project

Modern Ipe wooden garden gate with vertical slats installed in a side passage
7.0 cm slats

Wide Ipe garden gate with 70 mm slats

 Building kit  
 Steal frame  
 2 sides slats  
   
Thick: 7.0 cm
With m1: 1.00- 1.20-1.50
Hight m1: 1.85 up to 2.10
Free: Clip + Screws
Ipe hardwood garden gate with wide vertical slats mounted next to a modern wall
9.0 cm slats

Hardwood garden gate with 90 mm Ipe slats

 Building kit  
 Steal frame  
 2 sides slats  
   
Thick: 7.0 cm
With m1: 1.00- 1.20-1.50
Hight m1: 1.85 up to 2.10
Free: Clip + Screws

Calculation tool

Calculate your dream garden with the calculation tool.

Calculate my project

Installing hardwood battens over a black membrane for fencing in a garden

Black EPDM membrane for slatted fencing

 Privacy Backing Membrane
 Acoustic / Sound-Reducing
 100% Sightproof

The before and after result of applying fence oil to a hardwood garden fence

Fence oil for Ipe and hardwood

 Premium fence oil
 UV & colour protection
 Dirt & water repellent

Calculation tool

Calculate your dream garden with the calculation tool.

Calculate my project

Scrubbing weathered Ipe hardwood decking boards with a wood reviver and brush

Grey wood restorer for Ipe

Ipe - degreaser  
Starter kit  
 Complete set  
   
Thickness: Any
Width: Any
Length: Any
Free: Delivery
Black fence cover membrane fitted to a hardwood garden fence for privacy

Woven ground cover for decking

 Black  
 Perforated  
 Anti-weed  
   
Thick: 2.0 mm
Width: 2.15 m1
Length: To choose
Application: To choose

Deliverytime UK

7 to 14 days delivery time
For Fence and Decking
Free delivery from £4300
Up to £4300 delivery charge £250 Parcel service (small box) delivery £26

  • Free delivery from £4.300
  • Delivery in 14 days
  • Up to £4.300 delivery charge of £250
Package L
Ipe packages
Package XL
Large timber bundles
Canopies or steel doors
Steel doors 6 to 8 weeks, canopies about 8 weeks
From £ 4.300 free delivery
From £ 4.300 free delivery
England
Delivered in 7 to 14 days

Package L

From £ 4.300 free delivery

Package XL

From £ 4300,- free delivery
Wales
7 to 14 days delivery time

Package L

From £ 4300 free delivery

Package XL

From £ 4300,- free delivery
Scotland
7 to 14 days delivery time

Package L

From £ 4300 free delivery

Package XL

From £ 4300,- free delivery
Northern Ireland
7 to 14 days delivery time

Package L

Delivery price on request

Package XL

Delivery price on request

Ipe fence boards: horizontal slats 21 mm thick with a 5 mm gap, posts hidden behind the slats.

In short: Our wooden fence slats are solid Ipe hardwood, 21 mm thick and 50, 70 or 90 mm wide, or 40 x 40 mm battens. They are fitted horizontally on Azobé posts of 60 x 60 mm with hidden clips, so no screw heads show, and they click together at the ends. A complete slatted fence 1.80 m high, about 6 ft, starts at about £330 per metre including posts, clips and screws. Ipe lasts 25+ years, even without treatment. Delivery to the UK takes 7 to 14 days.

SlatLookProduct
50 mmFine lines, modernIpe fence slats 50 mm
70 mmBetween fine and calmIpe fence slats 70 mm
90 mmCalm, fewer gapsIpe fence slats 90 mm
40 x 40 mm battensDepth and shadowIpe batten fencing

To be fair: softwood fence slats from a DIY shop cost far less per slat. Ours are sold per metre of finished fence and do not need replacing after a few years.

Hardwood fence boards define the overall character of your garden. Choosing Ipe means choosing more than a durable fence board: it means investing in a premium finish that stays beautiful for decades. Thanks to its exceptional stability, natural durability and refined grain structure, Ipe is recognised worldwide as one of the finest hardwoods for modern garden fencing and luxury screening.

Design your own garden fence
Use our practical fence calculator to see which Ipe hardwood fence boards best suit your garden. Because we keep our hardwood fence boards in stock, you benefit from delivery within 7 to 14 days. Whether you need a tall privacy fence for maximum screening or a low design wall on a garden boundary: our tall garden fences and modern fencing systems are available in a range of designs.

Choose fence boards designed for maximum longevity

Not every hardwood fence board performs to the same standard. For a long service life, the best choice is a timber species with outstanding natural durability. Within Durability Class 1, Ipe belongs to the absolute top category. Its very high density, natural resistance to moisture, fungi and insects, and minimal movement help an Ipe fence stay straight, stable and visually refined for many years.

This is why Ipe is widely specified for modern villa gardens, architect-designed outdoor spaces and premium privacy screening projects where appearance and lifespan are equally important. With an expected service life of 25+ years, an Ipe garden fence is a long-term investment in quality.

Horizontal or vertical fence board installation?

The direction of the fence boards has a major influence on the look and feel of your garden. Horizontally installed boards create calm lines, make the garden appear wider and suit contemporary architecture beautifully. This layout is often chosen for modern homes, urban gardens and exclusive landscaped spaces.

Vertical installation creates a more classic appearance and can make a garden feel taller. Both designs are possible with our Ipe fence boards. Thanks to the timber’s high dimensional stability, horizontal and vertical constructions remain clean, straight and visually balanced over time.

The right board width for every garden

The width of each fence board has a major impact on the appearance of the finished fence. Slim 5 cm slats create a refined, contemporary line pattern. Wider 7 or 9 cm fence boards produce a calmer, stronger look with more visual screening, ideal for larger gardens and modern architecture.

Combining different widths can also create a distinctive, high-end design effect. With our various Ipe profiles, you can create a garden fence that works perfectly with your home, terrace and landscape design.

Durability Class 1: the advantages of Ipe

After years of working with different timber species, we made a conscious decision to focus on one specialism: Ipe fence boards. With exceptional stability, high density and Durability Class 1 performance, Ipe is recognised worldwide as one of the most premium hardwoods for exterior use.

Compared with many other timber species, Ipe moves very little. This helps garden fences stay straight, refined and visually consistent for many years. The combination of luxury appearance, fine grain structure and extreme natural durability makes Ipe the ideal choice for high-quality fencing projects.

Ipe fence boards: inspiration & completed projects

Ipe fence boards form the foundation of some of today’s most beautiful outdoor projects. Premium hardwood boards, clean lines and architectural quality come together to create garden spaces with a timeless, high-end finish. The examples below show why Ipe is chosen worldwide for durable luxury gardens and contemporary privacy screening.


Loose Ipe fence boards in Durability Class 1 for modern garden fencing

These Ipe fence boards are the foundation of a durable, premium garden fence. Their high density, exceptional stability and natural durability make them one of the best choices for modern hardwood fencing. The fine grain structure and warm colour create an exclusive finish.

Large stock of premium Ipe hardwood fence boards for luxury fencing projects

Our Ipe fence boards are available for both residential gardens and large-scale landscaping projects. Every board is carefully selected for colour consistency, grain quality and dimensional accuracy, ensuring a beautifully finished fence that will perform for decades.

Horizontal installation of Ipe hardwood fence boards

Horizontal fence boards create clean architectural lines and make outdoor spaces appear wider and more contemporary. This style has become increasingly popular in modern gardens, luxury homes and professionally designed landscapes throughout the UK.

Vertical Ipe hardwood fence boards for timeless garden fencing

Vertical fence boards offer a timeless appearance and work equally well in traditional and contemporary gardens. Thanks to the outstanding stability of Ipe, the boards remain straight and uniform, helping your fence retain its premium appearance year after year.


Hidden stainless steel clip fixing system for Ipe fence boards

Our hidden fixing system allows every fence board to be installed without visible screws. Only the natural beauty of the hardwood remains visible, while the concealed stainless steel clips create perfectly even spacing, excellent ventilation and an exceptionally clean finish.


Modern Ipe hardwood privacy fence with contemporary slatted design

A completed Ipe fence combines privacy, exceptional durability and timeless design. The warm colour tones, elegant grain and concealed fixings create a premium finish that complements modern architecture, luxury gardens and high-end landscaping projects.

Choose the perfect fence board profile

Our range of Ipe hardwood fence boards allows you to design a fence that perfectly matches your property. Whether you prefer narrow contemporary slats or wider boards for maximum privacy, every profile is manufactured from premium Durability Class 1 hardwood.

How long do Ipe fence boards last?

When correctly installed, Ipe fence boards can last 25+ years. Thanks to their natural Durability Class 1 rating, they require very little maintenance. Left untreated, the timber gradually develops an elegant silver-grey patina. If you prefer to maintain the original rich brown colour, simply apply a quality hardwood oil. You can learn more on our pages about Ipe fence maintenance and What is Ipe hardwood?.

The engineering behind premium Ipe hardwood fence boards

A high-quality fence starts with more than attractive timber. It begins with the technical performance of every fence board. Ipe has an exceptionally high density of approximately 1,050 kg/m³, making it one of the strongest and most durable hardwoods available for exterior construction. Its natural resistance to moisture, fungal decay and insects, combined with minimal movement, makes it perfectly suited to modern fencing systems where clean lines and long-term stability are essential.

Lower-grade timber can warp, twist or split after only a few seasons outdoors. Ipe behaves very differently. Its outstanding dimensional stability helps fence boards remain straight, keeping joints even and preserving the elegant appearance of the entire fence for many years.

Why a 5 mm expansion gap matters

Our Ipe fence boards are installed with a consistent 5 mm spacing. This allows for natural ventilation, efficient water drainage and controlled timber movement throughout the seasons. At the same time, the evenly spaced shadow gaps create the clean architectural lines that define a premium contemporary fence.

Why stainless steel hidden fixings are essential

Ipe contains natural tannins that can react with ordinary steel fixings. For this reason we use black stainless steel clips and stainless steel screws throughout our fencing systems. Stainless steel prevents corrosion and staining, while the concealed black finish keeps the fixing system virtually invisible, allowing the natural beauty of the hardwood to remain the focal point.

Why architects and landscape designers choose Ipe

Modern gardens demand materials that combine exceptional durability with timeless design. Today's fences are no longer simple boundary structures; they have become an important architectural feature within the overall landscape. This is why architects, garden designers and landscaping professionals increasingly specify Ipe hardwood fence boards for premium residential and commercial projects.

Ipe works beautifully alongside black steel posts, aluminium, porcelain paving, natural stone and contemporary outdoor living spaces. The rich natural colour and refined grain add warmth while maintaining the clean, minimalist appearance expected from modern British garden design.

One of the key advantages is the hidden fixing system. Without visible screw heads interrupting the surface, every board forms part of one continuous architectural composition. Even spacing, uninterrupted lines and premium detailing create a finish usually associated with bespoke landscape architecture.

Just as importantly, Ipe continues to perform for decades. Its Durability Class 1 rating, exceptional density and minimal movement make it one of the most reliable hardwood species available for long-term outdoor construction.

Explore more about Ipe hardwood fencing

Planning a complete garden transformation? Discover more about Ipe hardwood, modern fencing systems and professional installation with our specialist guides below.

What is Ipe Hardwood?

Learn about the unique properties, durability and natural performance of premium Ipe hardwood.

Luxury Hardwood Fences

Discover complete Ipe fencing systems designed for contemporary gardens.

Garden Privacy Screens

Create stylish privacy with premium hardwood garden screens and slatted fencing.

Hardwood Fence Posts

Build a strong, durable fence with premium Ipe hardwood support posts.

Hardwood Garden Gates

Complete your fencing project with matching Ipe hardwood gates.

Triple Slatted Fence Design

Combine different slat widths to create a distinctive architectural appearance.

Ipe Fence Maintenance

Learn how to preserve the rich colour of Ipe hardwood and keep your fence looking its best.

Ipe Hardwood Decking

Match your fencing with premium hardwood decking for a seamless garden design.

What makes our Ipe fence boards different?

Not all hardwood fence boards are manufactured to the same standard. The quality of the timber, the machining, the fixing system and the complete design all influence the final result. Our Ipe fence boards have been developed specifically for contemporary fencing projects where appearance, stability and long-term performance are equally important.

  • Premium selected Ipe hardwood with exceptional density and a refined natural grain.
  • Designed for hidden fixing systems with no visible screws through the face of the boards.
  • Precision-machined grooves for fast, accurate installation using stainless steel clips.
  • End-matched connection profiles for cleaner joints and a more continuous appearance.
  • Multiple profile widths to suit everything from compact urban gardens to large architectural landscapes.
  • Complete fencing system including clips, stainless steel screws and matching fence posts.
  • Available directly from stock for fast delivery throughout the UK.

Rather than simply supplying individual fence boards, we provide a complete premium fencing solution engineered specifically around the exceptional properties of Ipe hardwood.

Build a complete hardwood fencing system

Creating a bespoke garden fence requires more than quality fence boards. Every component should work together as one integrated system. That is why we supply complete Ipe fencing solutions, including hidden stainless steel clips, premium fixings and matching hardwood fence posts.

  • Hardwood fence posts for maximum structural strength and durability.
  • Hidden stainless steel fixing system for a clean, screw-free appearance.
  • Premium Ipe fence boards manufactured from Durability Class 1 hardwood.
  • Matching hardwood garden gates to complete your project with a consistent design.

Would you like expert advice or a free hardwood sample?

Would you like to experience the colour, grain and exceptional quality of genuine Ipe hardwood before making your decision? Request a free hardwood sample and compare the material in your own garden. It is the easiest way to choose the right profile, finish and design for your fencing project.

If you have questions about installation, board sizes, hidden fixing systems or the amount of material you need, our Ipe specialists are happy to help. We provide practical advice for homeowners, landscapers and architects, ensuring every project is planned correctly from the start.

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Contact our specialists via WhatsApp or call us on +49 2821 7483051 for personal advice.

See the wood before you order

Want to see the colour and grain of Ipe next to your house or patio first? Order a free sample, or send us a photo of your garden on WhatsApp and we will help you choose the right slat.

Why professionals choose Ipe hardwood fence boards

Ipe is recognised worldwide as one of the finest hardwoods for demanding exterior applications. Its exceptional density, natural durability and outstanding dimensional stability make it the preferred choice for architects, landscape designers, contractors and discerning homeowners seeking long-lasting quality.

Why we focus exclusively on one hardwood species: Ipe

Many timber suppliers offer a wide range of hardwood species. We have deliberately taken a different approach. Rather than selling dozens of different timbers, we have chosen to specialise entirely in one of the world's most respected hardwoods: Ipe.

This decision allows us to optimise every part of our product range around the unique characteristics of Ipe. Our fence boards, hidden fixing systems, clips and installation methods have all been developed specifically for this exceptional hardwood, resulting in better performance, easier installation and a superior finished appearance.

Specialisation creates better products

Because we work exclusively with Ipe, we understand exactly how the timber behaves in real outdoor environments. We know the ideal expansion gap, the correct stainless steel fixings, the best installation techniques and how to achieve perfectly straight architectural fence lines that remain beautiful for decades.

That knowledge comes from years of practical experience rather than theory. Every completed fencing project helps us further improve our products, installation systems and technical expertise.

Real expertise built through experience

Every day we supply Ipe hardwood for luxury fencing, premium decking, bespoke garden projects and contemporary landscape designs. This continuous experience enables us to provide advice that goes beyond simply selling timber. We help customers build outdoor spaces that combine outstanding durability with timeless design.

Our philosophy

We don't aim to become the largest hardwood supplier. Our ambition is to be recognised as the leading specialist in Ipe hardwood. By focusing on one exceptional timber species, we continue to improve our products, installation systems and technical knowledge to deliver outstanding quality for every project.

Our customers benefit from specialist advice based entirely on Ipe hardwood. Whether you're building a contemporary garden fence, a complete landscape project or a luxury outdoor living space, we provide practical guidance on installation, maintenance and material selection.

All fence boards are available together with professional hidden fixing systems and matching components, allowing both private and commercial projects to be completed quickly and to the highest possible standard.

Fence slats: what you are actually comparing

Search for fence slats and you will find softwood slats from a few pounds each. Those are sold per slat, often treated pine, and you buy posts, rails and screws separately. Our Ipe fence slats are sold per metre of finished fence, as a kit: Azobé posts of 60 x 60 mm, the Ipe slats, hidden clips and black coated stainless steel screws. A fence of 1.80 m high with 50, 70 or 90 mm slats starts at about £330 per metre (October 2026), and it lasts 25+ years without treatment.

Horizontal fence slats

Our slats are always fitted horizontally, with a 5 mm gap set by the clip. Each slat has a groove along the side for the clip and a tongue and groove joint on the short end, so a joint does not have to land on a post. Horizontal lines make a garden look wider and calmer. Prefer upright slats? Then the vertical Barcode fence is the one to choose.

Slatted fence panels, 6 x 6 ft

A standard slatted fence panel is 6 x 6 ft, about 1.83 x 1.83 m, hung between two posts. We do not sell fixed panels. Our slats click together end to end, so the fence runs the full length of your garden without a break at every post. For the height of a 6 ft panel, choose our 1.80 m fence; we also make 2.00 and 2.10 m.

Slatted fence battens

For a deeper, three-dimensional look there are solid Ipe battens of 40 x 40 mm instead of flat slats. Choose between batten fencing with wood on both sides and the single-sided batten fence, which works well against a wall.

Fence slats for privacy

With a 5 mm gap you hardly see through the fence from a distance. For complete privacy and less noise, fit the EPDM membrane behind the slats. Work out what your fence needs with the fence calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ipe Hardwood Fence Boards

How long do Ipe hardwood fence boards last?

When installed correctly, Ipe hardwood fence boards can last 25+ years. As a naturally durable Class 1 hardwood, Ipe offers outstanding resistance to moisture, fungal decay and insect attack without requiring chemical treatment. Its exceptional density also helps minimise movement, keeping your fence straight and attractive for decades.

Can Ipe fence boards be installed horizontally?

Yes. Horizontal installation has become one of the most popular choices for contemporary gardens throughout the UK. The clean horizontal lines create a modern architectural appearance while making outdoor spaces feel wider and more open. Our Ipe fence boards are specifically designed for both horizontal and vertical installation.

Which fence board width should I choose?

The ideal board width depends on the style you want to achieve. Narrow 4 cm and 5 cm boards create refined contemporary fencing, while wider 7 cm and 9 cm boards offer a calmer appearance with greater privacy. Many designers also combine different widths to create unique architectural patterns.

Do Ipe fence boards require maintenance?

Ipe requires very little maintenance. Left untreated, the timber naturally weathers to an elegant silver-grey colour. If you prefer to retain the original rich brown appearance, simply apply a high-quality hardwood oil periodically.

Can hidden fixings be used with Ipe fence boards?

Absolutely. Our Ipe fence boards are engineered for hidden stainless steel clip systems, allowing every board to be fixed without visible screws. This creates a cleaner appearance while maintaining consistent spacing and excellent ventilation throughout the fence.

Why choose Ipe instead of pressure-treated softwood?

Pressure-treated timber can provide a lower initial purchase price, but Ipe offers significantly greater durability, improved stability and a much longer service life. It is also less likely to warp, split or twist, making it the preferred choice for premium fencing projects where long-term performance matters.

Why do architects choose Ipe hardwood?

Architects and landscape designers specify Ipe because it combines exceptional structural performance with a refined natural appearance. Its fine grain, rich colour and compatibility with hidden fixing systems make it ideal for luxury residential gardens and contemporary architectural projects.

Will Ipe fence boards crack or warp?

All natural timber responds slightly to seasonal changes in temperature and humidity. However, thanks to its exceptional density and dimensional stability, Ipe moves significantly less than most other hardwood species. When installed correctly with the recommended expansion gaps, the boards remain remarkably straight for many years.

Can Ipe fence boards be used for privacy screens?

Yes. Ipe is one of the best hardwoods available for contemporary privacy screens and slatted garden fencing. Its strength, durability and elegant appearance make it ideal for creating private outdoor spaces that complement modern homes and landscape designs.

Why invest in premium hardwood fence boards?

Although premium hardwood requires a higher initial investment, it often delivers the lowest lifetime cost. The exceptional lifespan, limited maintenance requirements and timeless appearance of Ipe mean your fence will continue adding value to your property for decades while requiring minimal upkeep.

The Complete Buyer's Guide to Premium Hardwood Fence Boards

Choosing the right fence boards is one of the most important decisions when creating a modern garden. While many homeowners focus on colour or price, experienced landscapers know that long-term performance depends on the quality of the timber, its natural durability and the complete installation system. Premium hardwood fence boards should continue to perform beautifully for decades, not just during the first few years after installation.

Ipe hardwood has earned its reputation worldwide because it combines exceptional strength, outstanding durability and timeless natural beauty. Whether you are building a contemporary slatted fence, a luxury privacy screen or an architect-designed garden boundary, selecting the correct hardwood from the beginning will determine how your fence looks and performs for many years.

Why timber quality matters more than price

Fence boards are constantly exposed to rain, frost, direct sunlight and seasonal temperature changes. Lower-quality timber often absorbs more moisture, resulting in movement, twisting and splitting over time. Although these products may appear less expensive initially, they frequently require replacement much sooner than premium hardwood.

Ipe is one of the densest hardwood species available. Its natural oils and extremely compact cell structure provide outstanding resistance against decay, moisture and insects without the need for chemical treatments. This makes Ipe one of the most reliable hardwoods for exterior fencing applications.

Designed for contemporary garden architecture

Modern gardens demand more than simple boundary fencing. Clean horizontal lines, hidden fixings and carefully selected materials create outdoor spaces that feel like a natural extension of the home. Ipe fence boards complement black steel posts, aluminium, porcelain paving, natural stone and modern outdoor living areas, making them a favourite among architects and garden designers.

Because Ipe remains exceptionally stable throughout changing weather conditions, the fence retains its clean lines and refined appearance year after year. Combined with hidden stainless steel fixing systems, the result is a premium architectural finish with no visible screw heads interrupting the timber surface.

A complete fencing system delivers the best results

High-quality fence boards perform best when every component has been designed to work together. Matching hardwood fence posts, concealed stainless steel clips and correctly spaced expansion gaps all contribute to the longevity of the finished fence. A complete system not only improves appearance but also simplifies installation and reduces maintenance over the lifetime of the project.

At Hardhout Discount we have developed our fencing systems specifically around the unique characteristics of Ipe. Every profile, clip and fixing has been selected to maximise stability, durability and visual quality.

A long-term investment in your property

While premium hardwood fence boards require a greater initial investment than standard softwood alternatives, they often provide the lowest lifetime cost. Their exceptional lifespan, minimal maintenance requirements and timeless appearance mean they continue adding value to your property for decades.

For homeowners who want outstanding quality rather than short-term savings, Ipe remains one of the finest hardwood choices available anywhere in the world.

Common Mistakes When Buying Hardwood Fence Boards

Choosing premium hardwood fence boards is a long-term investment. However, the quality of the finished fence depends on much more than the timber itself. The fixing system, installation method, ventilation and construction all play an important role in how your fence will perform over the next 25+ years. These are the most common mistakes we see and how to avoid them.

1. Choosing timber based on price alone

Many homeowners compare fence boards purely on price per metre. Unfortunately, lower-priced hardwoods often have a shorter lifespan, greater movement and higher maintenance requirements. Although premium Ipe hardwood costs more initially, its exceptional durability and stability frequently make it the most economical choice over the lifetime of the fence.

2. Using ordinary steel screws

Ipe contains natural tannins that can react with standard steel fixings, causing corrosion and staining around the screw heads. Professional installations always use stainless steel fixings. Our fencing systems are supplied with hidden stainless steel clips and stainless steel screws, ensuring maximum durability and a clean architectural appearance.

3. Ignoring expansion gaps

Even the world's most stable hardwood needs space for natural seasonal movement. Installing fence boards too tightly can reduce ventilation and increase stress within the timber. Maintaining consistent expansion gaps improves drainage, airflow and long-term stability while creating the clean shadow lines associated with premium fencing.

4. Mixing incompatible materials

A premium hardwood fence performs best when every component has been designed to work together. Fence boards, hidden clips, stainless steel fixings and hardwood posts should form one complete system. Mixing different materials often leads to uneven movement, inconsistent finishes and unnecessary maintenance.

5. Forgetting the overall garden design

A fence should complement the entire outdoor space rather than simply marking a boundary. Consider how the fence will work alongside decking, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, planting and architectural features. Choosing matching materials throughout the garden creates a more cohesive and luxurious appearance while increasing the overall value of the property.

Our advice

The best fence is not always the cheapest one. It is the one that continues to perform beautifully year after year. By choosing premium Ipe hardwood, hidden stainless steel fixings and a complete fencing system, you invest in a solution that combines exceptional durability, minimal maintenance and timeless architectural appeal.

Ready to Build a Premium Ipe Hardwood Fence?

Whether you're designing a contemporary slatted fence, a luxury privacy screen or a complete garden transformation, our Ipe hardwood specialists are here to help. From selecting the right fence boards to calculating materials and choosing the ideal hidden fixing system, we'll guide you through every step of your project.

✓ Free Hardwood Samples
Compare the colour, grain and quality at home.
✓ Fence Calculator
Calculate your complete fencing project in minutes.
✓ Technical Advice
Expert guidance from Ipe hardwood specialists.
✓ Complete Fencing Systems
Fence boards, posts, clips and fixings supplied together.

Request Your Free Sample Use the Fence Calculator

Premium Ipe hardwood • Durability Class 1 • Hidden Fixing Systems • Fast Delivery • Professional Support

Prefer teak? The same build, with 50, 70 or 90 mm slats on Azobé posts, also comes in paler plantation teak at 10% less. See teak fence boards.

Written by Tom Wegter (team leader IT) and Marc Westerhuis (team leader communications) at Hardwood Discount· last updated: 31 October 2026· Facebook · Instagram · YouTube · Pinterest