Alder wood

[Russell Sova]

I've been able to get a hold of some alder wood. Is there any use for it in boat building? Does it rot, check, etc?

[Bob Smalser]

Red Alder? A legume. Pioneer species in western forests. Short-lived tree.

I cut thousands of board feet of it. Makes nice cabinets and trim for the house....a bit softer than most maples. Easily fashioned to be a dead ringer for Black Cherry in cabinets. Rots as quick as Aspen. Dries fast and well but long, straight lengths are difficult to come by because long, straight logs are difficult to come by....good sawlogs above 18" sell for over a dollar a BF....bad ones used as pulp for $400 or so a ton.

Maybe has a use in a well-protected boat interior, but I'd pick something else.

[ 10-16-2003, 08:21 AM: Message edited by: Bob Smalser ]

[Russell Sova]

Thanks Bob, I was hoping you'd respond because you're the man when it comes to wood.