alternatives to pine for porch framing
stevieraycharles
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HELP!!
I am interested in building a screened porch without using pressure-treated lumber.
My main concern is the warp and twist that occurs as p.t. pine dries. Can anyone suggest alternative lumber that is weather and insect resistant, and will support a roof?? thanks….
Replies
Do you want to replace the framing or the decking? You could use cedar or redwood for the framing material, but PT is alot stronger, more resistant to decay (depending on what grade or cedar/RW you get) and a whole lot cheaper. PT can be difficult to work with, but once you have it framed up it shouldn't go anywhere.
Now, if you talking about the decking, I have heard good things about Tendura (try the advanced search) but have never used it. I have heard that it's pricey. Fir is a good choice as long as you are high enough above grade. There are many other woods that will work well if you maintain them correctly.
Jon Blakemore
The base for the porch is a brick patio w/ suspended slab approx. 10' above grade.
About 20 years ago, an aluminum and glass sunroom was installed by a now defunct company. The homeowner wants it removed and replaced w/ a screened porch.
The sole plates would be attached to the masonry, and 3 walls would be framed with a shed roof tied into existing home. I had planned to use 2x6x8's on 36" centers. That's one reason why I'm concerned about warp and twist. Other than the sole plate, the top plate, and blocking installed at 36", there's not much to hold studs plumb, level, square and straight. Given my history with the customer, cheaper is better.
The only place you NEED pt is the plate. All else has enough air circulation and no ground contact..no big deal.
Go Stab yourself Ya Putz! Ya think I Parked here?
got a saw mill nearby? white oak, locust, black walnut..osage orange (not big usually) often I can get white oak for less than 1.00$ a BF. thats a 12''x12'' x1'' unit of measure.
support your local sawmill..it's a hard life.