Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Ipe help needed!

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Zora7404
05-10-04, 08:17 AM
I am considering using Ipe to replace a 12 x 16 PT deck about 8ft above ground. I think I can get it at a reasonable cost to fit within the budget since Advantage Lumber in NY and Lumber Liquidators in NJ are within driving idstance for pick-up. My father and I will be doing the project and we have never used Ipe before. I know there are special techniques and tools necessary for working with this product. Does anyone have a link to resources we can use to learn some tips and tricks to help us get it right?

davedoy
05-10-04, 12:21 PM
I know that the wood is hard to work with but looks great. I just built a cedar deck and used a product called deck spacers. You may want to look at them because of the bow in the wood. My deck looks great and it took the hassle out of proper spacing and installation. Go to www.deckspacers.com
lefty
05-10-04, 07:35 PM
The other name for Ipe is "ironwood" -- and justifiably so!!

A carbide blade will cut it, but you will have to drill and countersink every hole where you will be screwing it to the joists. It's not the cheapest decking out there to begin with, and it IS labor intensive. (That's the downside.) Nice look when you're done, and you'll probably never have to replace it. (That's it's good points.)