I just installed an exterior deck made of ipe. It is extremely hard, does not absorb well. I want to maintain its color and grain through the very damp climate in San Francisco. The deck is wet every morning, the wood gets very blotchy, sun then drys it out during the day and the discoloration disappears. In the winter we often have multiple days of rain. This cycle is very hard on wood and eventually, I fear  the blotchyness will not disappear.

Do you have an opinion about the following solutions to protect the wood:

Wax.

Marine Varnish.

Stain and water seal.

Linseed oil

Hardwood formula Penofin

Can you suggest any other solution or product.

I don’t mind spending some time maintaining the deck, but I would like to minimize the time as much as possible.

Thanks for your help.