Plywood stringers

[toddeppley]

Have any of you out there ever used 5/8" plywood for your stringers?  I am not able to source clear wood for an affordable price.

 

I will be using quality, marine grade stuff.

 

Please advise.

thank you

[Action Tiger]

Nope. Don't do it.

There is NO WAY you can't find clear enough wood to use. People must be building houses and fences near you.

I have used 2x stock for boats for years. I get it from a lumberyard where they know me, and sometimes set aside nice pieces for my weekly visits, but you can pick stacks at a box store. Easily ripped into 5/8" pieces, and easier to rip down from there, even with a circle saw and guide. Generally, the wider the board, the nicer the wood, so look at 2x10s. Fascia boards, anyone? Stair tread or riser stock? Deck material?

Use whatever softwood is available. Look for tightish grain (say 12-30 rpi) and small knots. You'll probably have to scarf, but so what?

Also, a local tree guy mills wood for kicks, and I buy good stuff from him. He charges 1-3 dollars a board foot. Maybe you can find one in your area. It requires more treatment than square stick from the store, but...

[Hirilonde]

There is NO WAY you can't find clear enough wood to use.

That's not true, BS 1088 is perfectly clear.  But the problem with any plywood as stringers is that every other layer has the grain going in the wrong direction for strength as the stringers need.  Solid stock has all the grain oriented to accomplish the task.

[Action Tiger]

No. I meant wood wood. Lumber. No way you CAN'T find good wood.

Good clear lumber is everywhere.

Plywood needs to be picked over carefully, too, no matter the stamp.

But, yes, the reason Dave stated is why ply won't work here.

[Hirilonde]

Plywood needs to be picked over carefully, too, no matter the stamp.

Not true.  BS 1088 plywood manufactured by a reputable company needs no inspection unless you suspect damage from handling, which will be quite obvious.  It is flawless.  Most people are used to US made plywoods, which are nothing close to the standard BS 1088.