Benches

[welderskelter]

I have a call this morning for some live edge bench seats about 2and a half in. thick and 8 ft. long. I was wondering how maple will stand up to the weather.Harold

[doc henderson]

not the best.  but most things do ok up off the ground and with some finish/repellant on it.  black locust or white oak might be naturally better.  Hedge and Mulberry work well.  some say walnut and ERC heartwood.  If it is not needed to last for years, than almost anything can work.  will it set on concrete, or in the grass/soil?  for many, a live edge bench is rustic, and you use what you have.  I have a slab of cottonwood outside, but off the round, and it is sound after 5 years in the sun and rain, with no finish.

[doc henderson]

What up Benches? in General Woodworking (forestryforum.com)

[WV Sawmiller]

https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?topic=97464.0

   This is my style and a lengthy thread on how I make them. I agree for outside use I'd recommend Black locust or white oak, or treated wood and and keep them on a concrete pad or paver or such if possible.