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I plan to enclose to lock-up an opening between cabin and cockpit on a 40 y.o. timber motor cruiser. Is meranti timber as sold by major hardware chains suitable to frame up the new bulkhead, or should I use tasmanian oak? The structure will be set off existing hull timbers and above (hopefully) any bilge water.
Greetings and I hope that your timber cruiser is everything you want it to be -The Meranti currently on offer at the hardware stores is a far cry that the boatbuilders of old used in the past. It appears very light both in weight and colour and of questionable durability. Conversely, the 'old stuff' was more like a light hardwood with a dark almost reddish colour with prominent rays throughout the grain.
Tas Oak or Vic Ash is not overly durable either and mostly used for indoor furniture. Having said that, if you prepare and coat it with a penetrating epoxy such as Everdure or the Norglass equivalent and then overcoat with the proper system ,then it will be fine.
Try and get hold of some old Oregon with close grain and this may serve you better, especially if you are cutting on a curve.
Regards C.R.