Post #691127 by tikiskip on Fri, Aug 23, 2013 11:00 AM

http://www.google.com/search?q=wood+mantels&rlz=1C2EODB_enUS533US533&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=FqEXUp-KBMq7qAGqw4GoDA&ved=0CEcQsAQ&biw=1280&bih=652#facrc=_&imgdii=_&imgrc=MOsJoRr_yhXooM%3A%3BU7CWIqb6m-r5gM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Ffarm4.static.flickr.com%252F3253%252F2306519004_8a881b7f9e.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.timbermantels.com%252Fblog%252Fpage%252F3%252F%3B500%3B333

Wow that link is big.
But I think you can see the pic.
This would be the high end of what I'm saying.
But on the low end it could be 2x6 inch boards end to end with a stain and protective coating.
That stuff you show looks like flooring.
How would you finish the end on that kind of top?
You want a big fat piece of wood that can wear down over the years.
Something that will feel solid as you stand or sit next to it.
Plus if it's going to be outside it's going to weather and look better and not warp.