Post oak outdoor durability - Woodworking Talk

jeffreythree · 01-29-2009, 01:24 PM

I was wondering about post oak, a white oak, durabililty outdoors. It would be used in a cantiliever dock, no direct contact with the ground or water, mostly covered by decking on the top. I just don't want to buy that big of a PT pine board if I can cut a couple of post oak boards on site.

**TexasTimbers** · 01-29-2009, 02:05 PM

It's very durable, even for ground contact. "Post Oak" is so named because it is one of few oaks that can be successfully used for fence posts.

Very hard, heavy, close-grained wood which is well known to be resistant to decay. Use it with confidence.

jeffreythree · 01-29-2009, 02:25 PM

Thanks TT, I always like a second opinion on these things. Especially when PT 2x12s cost so much for anything approaching clear lumber.

gharvey · 01-29-2009, 04:43 PM

I think white oak is more durable than cedar. Remember that the old sailing ships were made from white oak and they lasted a while. Might be tough on your tools though.

Gharvey