Making flat spindles

[kurt_rose]

Hi guys. I've been making flat spindles for a Victorian B&B out of 1x6 pine dimensional lumber. I was thinking this would be a lot easier if I could make them out of a 4X8 type of sheet goods. It can't be any type of PVC due to the B&B is in an historical area. I kinda remember that there is an exterior mdf. Has anyone used it and if so does it hold up ok? Does any other material fit the bill? They are getting painted and just have to feel and look like wood. Any suggestions appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[CNYDWW]

I have some samples of Exteria i was sent by the company. I dislike mdf, i would push for MDO plywood. No voids and great surface to paint. I'm actually developing some of those very products. Going to have them in pine, larch, cedar and pvc.

Regards
Randy

[cedars]

I have used Extera on a sizable exterior painted cabinet project. This is the product you want to use for your project. The project has been done for about 7 years and still looks like the day I installed it. Paint is sticking to it perfectly. Before I decided to use it, I dropped a piece of it into a bucket of water for three weeks. I micked it before and after the three weeks in the water. Absolutely no movement.

[bleeth]

Kurt:
You can also use Medex from Sierra Pine. It's not as heavy as Extira and is also rated exterior.

[kubotaman]

Kurt, If you want to use real wood you can use Sapela. It is rot resistant and cuts like a dream. If it is flat grain it will not raise or split like fir will. I think it is a dream to work with. The only thing I find with it is it makes a fine sawdust. The price isn't too bad.

[CNYDWW]

This was actually today's project. Composite decking materials from a discount supplier. They had the material sitting around for a few years. Don't mind the mildew etc. They're getting power washed and then stained once dry. These are for the "Showrooms" at their two locations. The baluster design is my own with inspiration from this site

http://www.ourvictorianhouse.com/FrontPorch.htm#The Balusters

To make them up to code I designed a male and female.

Regards
Randy

[kurt_rose]

Thanks guys for all the suggestions.