Our company has stopped using IPE and other tropical hardwoods. Although long lasting, if the moisture content is not correct, they warp horribly and have gotten expensive, not to mention the ecological damage harvesting this wood has on ecologically rich forests. We've been using Thermory for a couple of years now and have had great success. It doesn't warp, is quite lightweight, and meets fire code when used on roofs.

A similar product to Azek at about 40% less cost is KOMA trimboards. I used this prodcut recently and couldn't tell the difference from Azek. You can check their site for dealer locations -www.KOMAtrimboards.com You mentioned that you'd have to paint. No so with the Koma or Azek. They come white. As for poplar, like any other wood, you want to keep the column wraps about 1/2" of the floor to prevent rotting from water. Cover that gap with trim. Take a look at vinyl beadboard for your soffits and overhang. You'll be glad you did years from now when you don't have to paint it. I've blended M/Free products, both vinyl and aluminum, and they actually work well together. Good luck on your project. The Porch Guy Here is a link that might be useful: My Album

OK so when it comes to stains, I want an environmental sound product that is safe for the kids to play on. Should I look for a redwood stain that is water based? Any brands you recommend? As this post has been going on I found the best type of wood to use. Recycled. I found a guy that was getting rid of his play structure that is about eight to ten years old. It is made of redwood. It is strong...I hung on it myself and at 200lbs it is more than strong enough for little kids. So I will sand this down and refinish it. So what kind of stain should I use? thanks is advance. jack

Robo, that's hilarious. And how did the screen hold up? Not sold on a purple door in my future. I now look at every front door of every house I pass, which means I drive down some neighborhood streets like a little old lady who wears nothing but purple. :) The older neighborhoods with the cute cottages and bungalows are just a treasure trove of fantastic doors. I want black hardware. Is that so wrong?