by 48Rob » Wed Sep 03, 2008 6:16 pm
Hi Tom,
Most pine won't be adequate for roof supports.
It would be fine for side wall studs.
Always pre drill for screw holes to avoid splitting wood, no matter what kind you use.
Straight grained Southern Yellow Pine is very strong, though probably not common, if even available in Oregon...
Some of the pine/fir species available there may be strong enough?
Check with local sources, a mom and pop lumberyard will know the answer.
Hardwood as was suggested, is the best bet for strength.
You look like a good sized fellow (compliment) so an easy test would be to place a piece of whatever wood you choose for the ribs on a couple supports at a 4' span.
The rib should only be a few inches off the ground...
You should be able to stand in the middle without it breaking.
It will deflect, perhaps several inches, but shouldn't break.
If it does, it needs to be a little larger, or you need to use a different wood.
Rob
Waiting for "someday" will leave you on your deathbed wondering why you didn't just rearrange your priorities and enjoy the time you had, instead of waiting for a "better" time to come along...