Input wanted on using ash for wooden boat frames instead of oak

Im building a 22 foot Carolina Dory ,plywood on frame. I was going to use white oak for the frames, but before I proceed I would like some input on using ash for the frames. Ash is similar to White Oak but is not a rot resistant wood. What if the ash is encapsuated with epoxy ? Doesnt that eliminate for the most part the rot issue? Im using Meranti plywood for the skin and I would like to use epoxy encapsulated ash for the frames. It would save alot of cash. Anyone with experience or knowledge please reply.

 

Ash is a really good wood for steam bending. It was traditionally used for framing and areas that took a lot of abuse. Wisconsin has an overabundance of ash thanks to the borer beetles.

 

Give the ash 3 coats of epoxy and a few coats of paint, then keep up on the paint. Paint protects the epoxy, epoxy protects the wood. Works as long as the system is intact.

 

Thank you

 

I really am a fan of ash, but I would avoid using in a planned wet bilge.

It will take epoxy better.

Unless you WILL do 3 coats; stick with white oak. Make sure the wood edges are also not sharp and fill all defects with thickened epoxy before coatings.

 

Silver Ash is a nice one, takes steam & a bend well.

Ash, Silvertop | WoodSolutions https://www.woodsolutions.com.au/wood-species/hardwood/ash-silvertop

Jeff.

 

Yep, applicable for any material. but especially wood;
"An unbroken layer of paint is the first line of defense".

 

Anybody know steam bending characteristics of black locust it would last well in a wet bilge.

 

Black Locust | The Wood Database - Lumber Identification (Hardwood) https://www.wood-database.com/black-locust/