I posted this question earlier but it didn’t seem to take –
I have a source for some fabulous old growth straight grain hemlock that’s been milled and drying for probably 10 years or so. Thinking about re-sawing it to 5/8 and milling T&G to make soffit boards for the new porch we built.
– the porch soffit is well vented but I’m concerned about the stability of hemlock (twist & warp over time)
– considering a clear (tung oil) finish to preserve the beauty of the wood. Should the boards be back primed with a couple coats of the same exterior finish prior to installation? Would that stabilize the hemlock sufficiently on this thin stock?
From Beautiful Skagit Co. Wa.
Dennis
Replies
http://www.woodbin.com/ref/wood/emc.htm
http://www.woodbin.com/calcs/shrinkulator.htm
The first link can help determine how much the moisture content of the wood will change, based on humidity levels. The second one will tell you how much the wood will move, based on moisture content changes. Between the two, you should be able to figure out if your choice of hemlock, is a smart one.
Yes, you should back coat the wood, and using the same coating as the face will work. But note that backpriming dies not prevent movement. It only helps to assure that the movement is even from front to back (hopefully preventing some warping).
down Tacoma way we'd put that old growth straight grain hemlock up in a heartbeat
coat it all around as you've both suggested
you have enough for another 8 X 60' porch?
if it is as you say will function almost same as doug fir