Most framing members are vertically oriented and are somewhat sheltered from
direct weathering by the decking and skirting, so treated SYP will last much
longer in a framing application than as decking. In this area (VA/MD), treated
2x SYP decking lasts 15-20 years and 10-15 years on southfacing decks which
really get cooked. Pairing Ipe (durable 40-50 year decking) with SYP framing
(30-40 year life when somewhat protected) is a reasonable match. If you have the
presence of mind to end-seal all cut treated lumber ends, you'll probably get at
least 40 years of life out of the frame.

FYI - Advantage and most other wholesalers carry Ipe in framing sizes, and most
retail vendors sell at least the rail components (4x4, 2x4 etc.) - only problem
is cost and weight - a 2x10x16 is a two man carry - I went with SYP.

Pat Barber wrote:

Since most PT-SYP has a warranty that exceeds 40 years, I wouldn't
worry about who is gonna outlive the deck.... IPE is probably
going to last 50 years, soooo you will have a deck that outlives
the house...

The other reason is that IPE doesn't come in the larger framing
sizes as a general rule. The structure requires much larger
framing members by most regulations.

Ed G wrote:

Fellas (and ladies where applicable) please excuse my ignorance, but why
would you make the structure of your deck with pressure treated wood and
then use Ipe for the rest of the deck? Wouldn't this mean that in a few
years, you'll have to remove the deck to replace the pressure-treated
structure? Sorry if this is a dumb question, but I'd like to know before I
re-do my deck next year. Thanks in advance.