I need to reproduce three exterior gates for a home. They are currently 1/4 ply with 1 x 4 framing on the visible side, attached to square metal tubing. What's the best type of 1/4 ply to use in this application? Thank you.
How do you intend on finishing these gates? If you want more of a natural wood look and you're going to use stain/varnish or fence/deck stain, then I would look at T1-11 siding or a marine grade plywood. I'm not sure you could find either in 1/4" but certainly in 3/8+". If you want to paint, then medium density overlay (MDO) plywood would be an excellent choice. It's an exterior grade of plywood with a special paper coating that's takes paint well and is commonly used for exterior signs. Again, MDO is probably only available in 3/8+" thicknesses.
With the exception of the T-11, you'll need to find a specialty lumber supplier rather than most home centers.
Thank you! The gates I'm replacing are painted, not stained/varnished. They want the exact same look, so I was planning on primer/paint/waterproofing. Thickness is a non-issue, 1/4 inch is what they had, if I have to go a little thicker I don't anticipate any issues with doing that. Thank you for your expertise and time!
Another option might be sheet PVC, like the stuff Azek makes. Because it's plastic it will never rot and takes paint very well. I would do some reading on how to use the stuff, you may have to take factor in for expansion/contraction depending on the size.
BTW, there's no need for more than primer and two topcoats of a good quality paint. Plenty of houses have painted wood trim and none of it is "waterproofed."