IPE vs Pressure-Treated Lumber — The Coastal NC Decking Decision

Coastal NC 2026 installed pricing for 1×6 deck boards over standard 16-on-center stringers:

• Pressure-treated southern yellow pine: $3–$5/sq ft
• Pressure-treated marine-grade (.60 CCA equivalent): $5–$7/sq ft
• IPE Brazilian hardwood: $14–$22/sq ft
• Cumaru / Garapa (IPE alternatives): $10–$16/sq ft

On a 400 sq ft dock, the IPE upgrade adds $4,000–$7,000 over standard PT.

Real-world lifespan in saltwater splash zone:

• Pressure-treated southern yellow pine: 12–15 years before significant cup, check, and surface decay
• Marine-grade pressure-treated: 18–22 years when installed with stainless fasteners
• IPE: 30–50 years with no surface treatment needed

What you actually have to do each year:

• PT: Annual pressure wash, recoat with deck stain or marine oil every 2–3 years to slow weathering. Surface checks and splinters start appearing around year 5.
• IPE: Annual rinse with fresh water. Optional UV oil every 1–2 years if you want to keep the rich brown color. If left untreated, IPE silvers gracefully without losing structural integrity.

If you are building a dock you plan to use for 10 years or fewer before selling, pressure-treated is the right choice. The upfront savings rarely come back at resale on a short hold.

If you are building a dock for your forever home, IPE on the decking with pressure-treated framing underneath is the best long-term value. You pay 3× upfront and forget about the dock for three decades.