I am building new log gates (5 pieces, 420*200) and attaching them with new Henderson fittings. Since this costs quite a bit đ
I would like to reuse panels from 4 gates for 2 of the "new" ones (also to save the environment). That way, I get enough boards that are in OK condition according to me. The surface is cracked, but inside they are as good as new. The gates need to be higher due to the new hanging system, which means the existing boards are too short. Plus, I might not even get enough long boards even if the gates were the same size. Now to my question. Can I have the panels lying horizontally instead? Then I would just need pieces ~200 cm long, and that would most likely work with the amount I have saved. BUT, would the cracks then become a "shelf" where water could collect and damage the wood? It makes a difference if the boards stand upright, as water would run along the cracks and have no reason to stay. Does anyone know about this? Am I exaggerating this risk? The gates face south if that matters.
Thank you for the response! Am I marginally shortening the lifespan or is it significantly? There's also the option to set them standing but angled and spliced - is that better? I should also consider turning them, but then I miss the beveled edges, which do have an aesthetic value on a gate đ