I am going to build carriage house doors for a garage. They will be painted. The garage is located in phoenix, so the climate is very hot and dry. They are east facing, so will get direct sun exposure during the morning. I am unsure about what kind of wood to use. Rot resistant softwoods, like ceder, redwood or even doug fir would be fine, given that it will be painted. But I am concerned that these woods will warp and check in the heat/sun. I’m also considering Red oak, since it is relatively inexpensive and will resist rot, but I’m not sure about overall stability in the sun. Cost is a consideration. Any thoughts for me? Many thanks.
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Ford Motor Company slashes prices for some F-150 Lightning models to stimulate demand for electric vehicles (EVs).
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
stabilize the moisture content
In my opinion wood warp and check happens with significant changes in moisture content. So if you build with wood that starts at a stable and reletively low moisture content (say 5-6%) and stays that way in service, then there shouldn't be any warping and checking. Remember, rot can only take place when wood gets wet; particulary when that wetting cycle is long and/or repetitive.
Seems to me that bulk water managment and proper sealing of the doors you are making should be of more concern than the range of species you are considering. Personally I recommend VG red cedar if you can afford it.
Fir
My lumberyard(TWPerry) carries 2x Douglas Fir, typically for framing use. 2x6 runs about 2.50 per lin. ft. But it's knot-free, actually kiln-dried, and best of all, it's all quarter-sawn. I bought about 1200 worth to make interior doors. It sat racked for about 4 months before I touched it (inside, in a/c) and not a bit of it checked/cupped/warped. Can't say the same for the SPF 1x and 2x material I've gotten!
Whatever species you choose, it's best to get VG or quartersawn wood. More expensive, but far more stable. Balancing the moisture content between in and out is also key to preventing wood movement.