We bought this house as a foreclosure 2 years ago. It has a really nice tongue and groove front porch, but it is starting to show some wear and I would like to refinish it. I have not been able to figure out what kind of wood it is, no stamps or tags anywhere that I can see. From looking around the web I think it may be Ipe.

Like a dummy I listened to a friends advice and used a pressure washer with some deck cleaner last year, which caused the discoloration in the picture.
I love how each board is a different shade and I am hoping I can keep that after refinishing it.

Which leads to my next question, if it is indeed Ipe, what it the best and easiest way to go about refinishing it? Should I pressure wash with deck cleaner, or would renting a sander be easier? What would I use for a finishing product?

Thanks in advance for the help, I've lurked this forum for a while, 1st time posting though!

If any additional info would be helpful, please just ask and I'll do my best to answer.