Shopsmith Forums

I am building a cupola and I want to know what would be the best type of wood to use. I have not built one before but I do have some construction skills

Every project serves a different need, so it needs different woods. For outdoor building, you want a soft wood and it needs to be protected with paint or stain, or some other sealer.
For outdoor projects, I don't worry much about type of wood. I look for the best looking wood at the best price. Species really doesn't matter once you slap paint over it.

For furniture used indoors, you want the classic hardwoods. Pick your favorite.

I agree that the species of wood won't matter much for an outdoor project, but whatever species, select dry/cured wood.

After saying that, I would stay away from structural wood (2 bys) that show loose knots or pitch pockets, and/or twisted grain. As a general rule, more expensive wood will yield better results.

I built one from redwood when I took Junior High School woodshop as a summer school project.
It has been reshingled a couple of times but is still on the house.

..... that would have been around 1968!

Thanks for the help guys. I will keep you informed on my progress with my
cupola It Might be awhile but I am hoping to get it done within the year