Post #737487 by AlohaStation on Mon, Feb 16, 2015 12:07 PM

Any wood can be used to carve - traditionally (in mosdern times) palm is used because it is plentiful, and easy to carve (notice how I didn't say durable!). Island natives used whatever wood was available - TIKIS were idols of great power that were worshiped and displayed with great consideration, not placed outside to look pretty. Modern people don't have the same considerations and stick their wood idols out in the rain and snow, exposed to bugs and worms, and place them in areas that are inappropriate for the material. Hoping they last 100 years is pure fantasy! There is a reason why you don't see tikis from a 100 years ago without consideration for their environment. If you want wood tikis to last outside keep them dry and elevated off the ground (so worms/bugs can't find them). I have several palm tikis outside that have lasted years (with some deterioration, but not bad). People often ask me "do your tikis do alright outside?" - "yes, of course" - "will they rot?" - "yes, of course" - "how do I keep them from rotting?" - "its simple, keep them inside".

If you are looking for good, durable tikis - look up PJC5150. He is carving cool/affordable tikis out of Cypress and Cedar. Those are you best options for wood tikis that are to be placed outside. OR do what the rest of us have done - pick up a chisel and get choppin!