I just had 6 white oak logs sawn and I’m going to also have them kiln dried. Meantime, I;m also in the process of building a deck for myself. The framing would be treated lumber, but the thought hit me, what about using some of the oak as decking? Of course I would treat it with something (I’m not sure what ) but anyway what about it? Does anybody have any thoughts on this or any ideas? thanks wishbone 4444.
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White oak is pretty rot resistant and stable outside. I think it would be fine.
We have in our back yard a picnic table made of roughly 1-3/4" air-dried oak, 29 years old. Has never been painted, stained, or sealed. Looks real rough (eroded 1/2" in places) but still solid.
Note that the oak will warp and twist somewhat worse than other woods, though.
happy?
Rock on, if it is really well graded. FAS ( first and second slices) tend to be clear of defects on one face for 66% of the boards total net.
As you saw closer to the heart of the log, depreciation expounds.
When you install flat sawn timber, cull the spike knots lest they fall in a mid span and break an ankle..trust me .
I'd add that you could gather up a better use for white oak...?
Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
Thanks, as for better uses, yes I probably could. But I was somewhat amazed at the amount of lumber I got from these six logs. I also believe in using native woods when possible.wishbone
Wishbone - I did a 8'x48' porch floor in 6/4 white oak, from trees I cut. It is 7 years old and no signs of decay. I installed it a little green and the gaps are kinda big. It is on the west side of the house so it gets all the wind-driven rain, etc. I was going for a rustic look, so I left it unfinished to gray over time.
With all that said, I wish I had used the wood for something nicer, since the oak was so pretty - I was just too cheap to buy decking at the time.
Treat every person you meet like you will know them the rest of your life - you just might!
Should have had it 1/4 sawn...beautiful wood. Jimmy...
Avoid using the sapwood. No decay resistance.