I am taking down and rebuilding a 65x 45 ft oak poplar and beech timberframe with oak pegs. When I rebuild it should I use some extyremely dense hardwooddogwood, apple or live oak pegs? Also are there any advantages in gluing the joints back together?
Greg,
In fifteen years plus of dismantling and restoring old timber frames, I very rarely find anything other than white oak used for trunnels. It splits very well along the grain, is very strong and flexible and rot resistant.
I don't see any advantage in gluing the joints. During moisture cycling and normal loading, the joints are subject to some motion. This would be hindered by gluing and may actually cause damage. The exception would of course be in repairs. You may find it necessary to glue in a relish repair or a free tenon.
Sounds like a great project. Have fun and work safe.