I am wondering if there is any difference in performance or lifetime
of beams made from size 10 wire or aluminum tube, and what is the
difference between the tubing bought at a local home center vs tube
bought from an antenna source?
Thanks for any replies.

There are many grades of aluminum. I think it is 6061 that is usually the
best for the antennas . It will withstand the weather beter than some other
grades. As the wind bends the elements and ice forms on them and they bend
they will become brittle and maybe break if the wrong kind is used.
Strength is another property. If used for the boom one type may bend too
much for the length.