: I typically just work to 1/16" and 1/32 on critical parts.

: I wish I could find some decent white oak. Problem around here is Red oak is
: much more common. Not much white oak grows around here so White is oak is
: hard to find. I was thinking of just using construction grade pine. Take
: larger pieces since they are better quality and just resaw them to the
: size I need. Glue all the joints with epoxy and bed the floating panels in
: caulking. That should keep the water seeping in to a minimum. Then paint
: it. It should last a long time that way.

Red oak coated with epoxy works almost like white oak, generally for a whole lot less money (including the epoxy), pretty strong too.

I'd bet a tree built with softwoods will degrade over time with the abuse it'll get on the road.

Bill H.