What Species to Use?

5 years ago I designed an framed my own timber frame home after attending a timber framing workshop at Benson Woodworking. I'm now planning on adding a timber framed screened room addition. The posts will be exposed to driven rain, so I am concerned about rot resistance, particularly at the post bases.

I was wondering what species of wood would be best suited to such a structure and are there any "tricks" that are done to minimize the possibility of decay.

I live in Ontario, Canada, so Eastern White Pine is plentiful (that's what most of my house is made of). Douglas Fur is also readily available in my area. Are either of these species suitable?

Any advice would be much appreciated.

Dave G

White oak would probably be the wood of my choice, though cedar would work, I think. Pine and fir are not appropriate choices.

Good luck.

I agree with Bob. White oak would work very well provided it is all heartwood. The sapwood will start to rot almost immediately. White oak is also very strong. Port Orford Cedar would also work quite nicely, but it's only available from West Coast suppliers. Nice wood if you can get it.

Enjoy your project.

Rudy

Thanks for the info, gents.

I'll see if I can find some sources for oak in my area. Does anyone have any opinions on Western Red Cedar? I've identified a source for that.

Dave

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Dave G:
[QB]Thanks for the info, gents.

I'll see if I can find some sources for oak in my area. Does anyone have any opinions on Western Red Cedar? I've identified a source for that.

Living in Virginia, I see cedar and locust used all the time as fence posts. You might check with farmers in your area as fence posts exhibit exactly the qualities you're looking for.

Good luck, Bob

Dave:

I've timber framed with Northern White Cedar, which is native to your area. Since you're only building a porch, it should be plenty strong for that. CB.