Thanks for the info, I will try to check out the members info area. One of the other reasons I am drawn to poplar is because of its unique color variations, I have seen everything from white and light green or yellow sapwood to dark purple in the heartwood. I don't mind the checking as long as the integrity of the joints is not compromised. I would guess that some of the checking could be done by controlling the rate of drying and sealing the ends of the timbers well both before and after cutting. I think I will build on a 8' bay standard. I have built some furniture items from poplar and it seems to be very stable once dry. I wonder if anyone has noticed a difference between winter cut poplar and spring/summer/fall cut. I know it makes a difference in moisture content of most wood. I also see advantages in the lack of knots and strightness of the timbers. I have some poplars that are clear of knots for 40+ feet and straight as an arrow.
