What wood for outside table and where to buy

[DiscoStu]

As per the title, I am intending to make my first real woodworking project an external dining table.

I was thinking of making it out Yellow Oak, but no idea if this is the best option. I also don't want to spend a fortune on it so I suspect there might be better cheaper options available?

Also where should I be going to buy my wood?

Thanks for your thoughts.

 

[Chrispy]

Sorry but I've heard of red oak, green oak, white oak, brown oak, golden oak, but as yet not seen any Yellow Oak!

 

[Spindle]

Hi

If it's going to have the rustic look I'd suggest getting Larch from a sawmill.

Regards Mick

 

[Kalimna]

Cedar? Also from a sawmill.

 

[John15]

Hi Stu,
Did you mean Yellow Pine? It's used for decking (treated) so it would be OK for an outside table, and it is less costly than hardwood. I used some to build a bridge over a water feature in my garden and I'm very pleased with it. I believe it is imported from The States.
Cheers,
John

 

[Myfordman]

Iroko would be another choice from a hardwood merchant. The dust can be irritating to some so worth being aware and taking sensible precautions. Sometimes known as poor mans teak, it has natural oils that resist rot.

 

[Giff]

+1 for Iroko…it's my sort of Teak )

 

[DiscoStu]

I just googled yellow oak to check I wasn't going mad. I read it in a book a while ago. Anyway it is part of the white oak family. Iroko sounds like a good option? I initially thought teak but then found out it's not easy to get hold off and I'd guess is very expensive. Where can I get Iroko?

 

[Phil Pascoe]

Most hardwood merchants, especially those near boat builders.

 

[DiscoStu]

I live on the South Coast, so does anyone have any specific recommendations of anyone in the Southampton / Portsmouth area? Plenty of boat builders around here I suspect.

 

[Myfordman]

Lathams should be able to provide what you want.

 

[John15]

Try the internet - most of the reputable hardwood merchants are on there.
John

 

[Giff]

Have you got an Arnold Laver near you.

 

[DiscoStu]

No idea but I'll google the two names that I've been given.

 

[toysandboats]

Bamptons in Southampton should be able to help and advise
David

 

[woodfarmer]

Keruin is also good and not expensive for a hardwood... But... any chance of using green oak?