05-13-2016, 07:30 AM
Guys, I've been asked to build a couple of window boxes in a frame and panel design. The picture that was sent to me shows raised panels on the front of the box, sort of colonial looking. To be honest, I think the picture may be of a vinyl box, but it looks like wood and is painted black. Easy enough to build this box as pictured using tradition frame and panel construction, but for its intended purpose I'm not sure that is wise. If I do build it that way, I would really prefer to glue the panel in for rigidity and weather seal. The panel will be only about 4 or 5 inches wide, so not a lot of movement, but maybe too much to not allow for it? I'm also concerned with all the joints in a raised panel frame when exposed constantly to the weather. I know TB3 can hold up to the moisture, but it still seems like a potential problem.
Do understand that this is all an attempt to give the customer what she wants. I know there are many more practical ways to build a box (and the wood embossed vinyl one in the picture looks pretty nice from ten feet). Both of these boxes will be sized specifically for their location, the largest is about 6', the other about half that. Build material is also a matter of debate. These will be painted black when finished so I lean toward pressure treated pine or fir. Cedar, Cypress or White Oak are also possibilities. All advice appreciated.
Do understand that this is all an attempt to give the customer what she wants. I know there are many more practical ways to build a box (and the wood embossed vinyl one in the picture looks pretty nice from ten feet). Both of these boxes will be sized specifically for their location, the largest is about 6', the other about half that. Build material is also a matter of debate. These will be painted black when finished so I lean toward pressure treated pine or fir. Cedar, Cypress or White Oak are also possibilities. All advice appreciated.