Choice of materials for patio railing?

[Joe Bräck]

The fence has rotted and needs to be replaced.
I plan to make a simple one with pickets and top/bottom rails. Something a bit American.

I want the slats to be just over 30x30 but preferably not as thick as 36x36.
Preferably not pressure-treated, but I have considered larch to minimize rot. (it will be painted, so maybe that's unnecessary)

I have access to machines, so I'm not afraid of making them myself, but I will naturally choose a dimension that is available.
How would you do it? And which wood would you use considering they shouldn't warp?

Best regards,
/Joe

 

[justusandersson]

The problem is that the type of timber you are requesting (small dimensions of good quality) is not available for purchase in regular hardware stores. If you can get hold of Norrland spruce that you can split yourself, it's a good option. A construction with cappings that protect the end grain of the slats extends the life considerably. The choice of paint type is important. You cannot use acrylic paint when painting the slats all around. Falu red paint or oil paint work best.

 

[Joe Bräck]

The problem is that the type of timber you're looking for (small dimensions of good quality) is not available for purchase in regular building supply stores. If you can get hold of Norrland spruce that you can split yourself, it’s a good option. A construction with an overlying piece that protects the end grain of the slats significantly extends their lifespan. The choice of paint type is important. You can't use acrylic paint when painting the slats all around. Falu paint or oil paint works best.

Thanks for the response.
I managed to get hold of slow-growing spruce as you advised, and they will also split it for me.

 

[justusandersson]

Great! Please upload a picture when you're done.

 

[Joe Bräck]

Great! Please post a picture when you're done.

If I get done...