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For the first time, I have a potential client who possibly may want to spring for an Ipe’ deck. I told my client that I am somewhat familiar with it but have never installed it before and that they would be my guinea pig. I checked the Breaktime archives for answers, but didn’t quite find all that I needed. In particular, what about sawing Ipe or similar species wood? Will I need to replace the sawblades every 50 cuts? And what about the environmental aspects of using this wood? I have read that they have to chop down very large areas just to get a small amount of usable wood, but that some of it comes from “Certified” sources whatever exactly that means. And what is this I hear about using an end cut solution of some sort? Any other wisdom experienced Ipe’ users can share with me would be very much appreciated. Jon.
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b TVMDC
The wood is very hard but you should have no trouble with a new or newly sharpened carbide tooth blade. I use a 96 tooth Freud blade on my 12" chop saw.
Environmentally responsible cutting is an issue: Check out paulopedecking.com for more info on this subject.
Sealing end grain is important on any decking material. I use Smiths CPES, Clear Penetrating Epoxy Sealer for IPE. Smith's products were originally developed for the marine industry and include glues, caulks, varnish, etc. Parafin also works but is not really suitable for hot locations. Check out rotdoctor.com for mail order or Smith's websites for discussions on wood treatments, particularily the treatment of dry rot:
dryrotcontrol.com This is Smith's Contracting website explaining the product and has pictures of case studies.
woodrestoration.com This is Smith's technical paper on the treatment of dryrot using his products. Or phone 1-510-237-6842 for product information, literature and ordering factory direct at prices somewhat lower than the rot doctor (Cash B4 dely, no plastic).
As for fasteners, EB-TY makes a plastic biscuit for invisible fastening. If you are going to screw the deck, you must predrill and use Stainless Steel screws: if you're using ipe, don't try and save a few dollars with galvanized screws.
Incidentally, Home Deport can order Pau Lope (a tradename for ipe) at pretty decent prices.
Good luck!
b CDMVT
*Bill;Thanks for all the good information. I'm printing it out now for future reference. Jon.