Post #296176 by Bincho on Sun, Apr 1, 2007 7:19 PM

I am in the trades as well-

I have had good luck using almost anything except ply products- the nature of that material makes them drink water and swell regardless of the top coat.

I have had good success salvaging large Doug Fir planks/ Beams and then sanding them/staining, and them applying MARINE VARNISH -- As this is boat stuff, it has UV protection and good waterproofing qualities.

If you have a job that yield some old petrified joists or something, they would be ideal to sand and stain. I come across so much awesome throw away wood like this it drives me nuts.

Any tropical deck hardwood will genarally do too, and Ipe or Palupe is now easy to get and sustainably farmed if you are green minded-- but not cheap--currently 2.40/leneal foot (6" plank)

[ Edited by: Bincho 2007-04-01 19:21 ]