Beth n Rod

Well that's pretty funny - because there are a number of us who feel this way - go back and read James's (Jim) posts. I don't see you jumping on his caboose. You may not agree with it, but it is common practice in many states now and people are getting results. Ipe is not the same as cedar, or pine or the like. Beth

If it was a soft wood I would agree. I do not agree where ipe is concerned. Ipe is not very porous. If you let it age and dry a little you are going to get a little better absorption rate. Gives the finish a little more to hold onto. Beth

His shoes could use laces and be more like sneakers....I would see DIY'ers in sneakers more than boots.... I agree with you on the mittens... Lose the mittens or make them gloves. Beth

Have not heard that WoodGuard is difficult to use - have never used that particular product. Did you back brush or back pad as you sprayed? Beth

If you are going to sand it down to even out the bleep-ups, would you not want to let it then age a bit prior to sealing it? Ipe is one wood we advise folks to let sit and age a few months for better results. Sand, let age, wash, prep, seal. You have some work to do to even that out, and my concern would be that once it is evened out - you are back to much newer wood... Beth :cup: ps we love Osborn brushes, but the 3M pads are great on ipe - Neil is correct.

In between his legs you can't tell the D from the I. Also next to his chin...I think the letters need to have separation. Other than that I like it! Beth

McMaster Carr ships fast too! We get our Osborn brushes from them. Beth

Very cool stuff! You have to love a brand new home. I bet they are anxious to move in. Beth

Amazing! 500 a week? Beth

....missing the knots. Sinker cypress maybe.... Beth

Boy that's pretty. Have you got one of the whole door? You may have two species there. Parts of it (horizontal) look similar to white hickory or to ash, both of which grow in that area. Hard to say. Beth

So not only is this a comparison, but the puppies baptized your test wood? Is that what you are showing us? :) You and Ken are full of fun Ipe shots today, aren't you? Beth

And you say they prepped this eh? HAHAHAHA! Sorry. Not funny. Really...can't wait to see the afters Ken. Beth

So Carlos, what did you do, stock up on a few bargain homes? ;) Nice neighborhood. Beth

Thanks for the tip Larry! We appreciate it. :) Beth

Overall, as a deck owner you should be looking at maintaining it just a much as you would any other investment. Your instincts are spot on. Your deck is a part of the appraised value of the home and depreciates with neglect or abuse, while on the other hand, diligent care helps to preserve the value and helps the wood to last longer. Please forgive me if this is already something you are aware of but I feel it necessary to cover the salient points. The information being given by responders are quite worthy of your consideration as they have all been putting out some very work. Welcome to TGS and feel free to search our data base for all the information you need to help you make an informed decision. If you have any further questions, please post here and I am sure you will find plenty of courteous and helpful members here to provide some insightful answers. Rod!~

There are soooooo many great forums out there...and on just about every topic you can think of. Don't forget to post a link for your forums in the Business Links Directory here on TGS. :) Beth

but,but,but...that's where I got mine from to begin with! :) Rod!~

Don't forget the disclaimer: Just cause you read it here doesn't mean your qualified to do it. Good luck Ken. Rod!~

Best of luck Ken! :) Beth

Yeah, you see me cutting any 20K deals to sell it? lol... Beth

Thanks Jon. :) I appreciate the kind words. Beth

Thank you Jon! You made my day, and put a smile on my face. :) Beth

You're welcome - but it is still not working right... :(

You're right - free is not going to work. But TGS is not going to become an org either. Beth :cup: