Replies

1. 
   JohnWW | Sep 17, 2009 04:55pm | #1

   As long as the wood can dry out completely between spells of wet weather, and the window, if it is properly designed should allow that, then the pine will work just fine and is the traditional wood for making screen frames. Pine works easily, is stable and light weight, and accepts staples well. Pine frames, even without any finish, should last forever as long as they aren't continuously wet.

   Poplar has a reputation for rotting very easily when exposed to the weather and is never used for exterior work on the East coast. Sycamore is not considered rot resistant either, and will be harder to work with than the pine. There are two varieties of sycamore, the West coast tree is called plane sycamore, the East coast tree is American sycamore, although they both have other names which can create confusion.

   Whatever wood you use, giving it a coat or two of an exterior oil finish will help to keep it good looking and will add a bit to its resistance to water penetration. A film type finish such as paint or a varnish shouldn't be necessary.

   John White
   Shop Manager for FWW Magazine, 1998 to 2007
2. 
   troys | Sep 17, 2009 09:58pm | #2

   If you can find vertical grain Douglas Fir that might be your best choice. Light and strong.

   Troy

3. 
   Eef | Sep 17, 2009 11:27pm | #3

   pd,

   when i was a kid, living in pasadena, i recall everybody had wood screens. looking back, i am quite sure they were made from pine and painted.

   eef

4. 
   KeithNewton | Sep 18, 2009 03:16am | #4

   I would choose Western Red Cedar over any that you mentioned.