Replies

1. 
   doorboy | Mar 15, 2006 01:03am | #1

   It's my opinion that any one of them would be fine.  The Genuine Mahogany typically comes from Central America or Mexico.  That's the rain forest and there is not always a good political or ethical reason to be cutting them down. Hence, the supply may be less.

   With your exposure, you should be fine with a proper seal.   Keep in mind that the Mahogany is an open pore wood, so filling should be a must.

   My own choice for an exterior door would be white oak.  Although it is also an open pore wood, the pores are naturally filled  with tyloses that make it naturally water resistant.

   Terry

   "Kinky for Gov. of Texas"

1. 
   aaronb | Mar 15, 2006 04:32pm | #2

   Terry,

   You seem to have some experience with making exterior doors? can you tell me what is the prefered gap between the door and the jamb. I was think about 1/4". The door I am planning will be rail and stile with flat pannels. The rails will be about 5-1/2" wide and the construction will be in the early spring when humidity levels are relatively low. Any advise?

   Aaron.

2. 
   doorboy | Mar 15, 2006 06:12pm | #3

   Aaron,

   I don't know what weatherstripping issues you may have up there, but down in Texas the old-timers used to carry a silver dollar to use as their gap gauge for both sides and the top.

   If you have the compression type of weatherstripping--similar to a refrigerator door gasket--the gap is not as critical.  But aesthetically I believe I would still go for something around 1/8" gap.

   Also, don't forget that the better you seal the wood, the longer you will enjoy it.

   Terry

    

   "Kinky for Gov. of Texas"

1. 
   aaronb | Mar 15, 2006 06:26pm | #4

   Thanks for the help. I will be using a rubber weather striping to seal the door.

3. 
   DonC | Mar 15, 2006 06:59pm | #5

   Ipe is very beautiful and used for outdoor applications. Do a google search to see the color and grain pattern.

4. 
   walnutjerry | Mar 16, 2006 02:36am | #6

   Douglas fir is widely used for making exterior doors, cypress is a good exterior wood  but it is pretty soft for a door.

                                           Jerry