[Homestead] Re: Ask a question?
clhw
clhw at InfoAve.Net
Sat Nov 27 07:13:46 EST 2004
Sandy, generally speaking, any of the rapid growth trees do not have the
strength that slow-growth trees do. Compare pine (7 years to maturity) to
oak (100 years or so to maturity). Poplar is not a high-strength wood and I
would assume the rapid-growth versions are even less so. That said, what do
you want the poplar for? I've seen some very attractive paneling and other
decorative wood made from poplar.
I would go to something else for load-bearing uses like rafters, etc., but
poplar of all types could be used for trim, paneling, possibly even top
layer flooring.
Poplar is somewhat difficult to dry and tends to warp worse than other
woods. It also develops some really gorgeous (blue/purple) mold streaks as
it dries. You'd be better off talking to some one with more experience in
wood useage than I but this is my opinion.
Lynn
>Thanks for taking the wheel and getting us back on track!
>I do have a question:
>I've seen mentioned, in various newsletters lately, proposals to begin
>planting/using poplar as hardwood for general construction purposes (which it's
>supposed to become once it's kiln-dried).
>I'm curious if 'poplar' would include the hybrid poplars that are advertised as
>being so fast-growing?
>Anybody?
>Sandy
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