I want to build an Adirondack Chair out of cedar. In my area the only thickness available is 4/4. The plans that I am using calls for 6/4 for the structural components. Can I get away with laminating the 4/4 for the structural components?
Ben
I want to build an Adirondack Chair out of cedar. In my area the only thickness available is 4/4. The plans that I am using calls for 6/4 for the structural components. Can I get away with laminating the 4/4 for the structural components?
Ben
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Replies
Yes, if you use a weather-resistant glue. I like Titebond3, but there are others.
I made a few sets using Norm's plans with 4/4 WRC for the legs, cross braces and arms. No problems.
Ben,
I've probably made 50-60 of Norm's Adirondack chairs over the years, from cedar and cypress (when I lived in La), from pressure treated pine, and from a couple of others. I've never used anything thicker that 3/4" material, and the ones I brought north from Shreveport are now 15 years old and still strong. Photo is of a cherry set I did with/for my son over Christmas.
I would think 6/4 material is overbuilding, at least with Norm's design.
Just a thought.
Geoff
I built one from 3/4", and a strong wind picked it up and turned it into matchsticks. I think 6/4 may have been heavy enough to turn over once or twice without splintering, but I can't be sure.
You could make it out of purpleheart or ipé, and the wind wouldn't stand a chance. Of course, neither would your back.
-Steve
Wow! Some wind!! My 3/4" chairs of pressure treated pine are quite heavy - the cypress and cedar chairs were much lighter, but haven't been in danger of being upended due to the proximity to the house - and no tornadoes!Geoff
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