Anyone build with apsen?

[SkeptiBee]

I have plans on building a new viv over the summer but I'm curious if anyone has built using aspen wood. The local hardware store has precut 4' x 2' boards to act as a base, with 3/4, 1/2, 1/4 inch available. But aspen seems really soft, so I was curious if it would be considered too fragile to really make a sturdy viv.

I'm also curious if it will weep with heat on it. I haven't seen much information to gauge possible fume risks involved but I do plan on sealing the interior with white paint to be on the safe side.

I know a lot of people will use oak, alder, or melamine. I keep reading that melamine will sag or crack / chip over time so I'm trying to stick with solid wood but keep it light weight (without sacrificing stability). I just thought I could cut down some time by getting the precut boards.

Anyone who has worked with a variety of woods, I'd appreciate feedback and suggestions! Thanks!

 

[cjlee89]

I built mine out of these exact boards (3/4") and it turned out solid. I used pocket screws and Titebond III wood glue and it is solid as ever. The pocket screws (Kreg Jr.) are extremely helpful for creating a tight and strong joint.

 

[cjlee89]

Here it is finished as of 1 hour ago!

 

[SkeptiBee]

Wow that turned out awesome! Did you put laminate flooring along the walls? That looks really sharp!

Thanks for the feedback. I guess I could go ahead and build it and just see how it holds up over the long term.

 

[cjlee89]

Thanks! I bought the aspen boards because it is not safe cutting those big 4' x 8' boards safely with the table saw I had. I cut a 2' x 4' in half (for the sides) using a circular saw and a homemade jig to keep it straight. This is the more expensive route to take but if you don't have the proper tools to handle something like a 4' x 8' sheet of wood its a really good option.

Yep, laminate wood flooring. Took all about 45 minutes to install and I used liquid nails. The viv has been airing out for the last 2 weeks before Marty gets to live there.