"John" wrote in message
...
Why not build it out of IPE?? Would be heavier, but would last
forever

Since IPE has become available, I use in all my outdoor furniture
projects instead of cypress or teak or other woods

John

Thought about it briefly. He did not have the 4 x 4 I needed. I'm also
wondering how well I could cut a mortise in Ipe. Have you done that? I may
just try it on another project my wife wants but it may have to wait until
next spring.
Ed