what kind of Wood is best for building backyard structures in extremely hot dry climates like arizona desert?

Answer 1

I would assume, as answer number one states that those two suggestions are valid, and should be readily available. I have to believe that in a general sense you are in range of a Big Box Home improvement store or lumber yard. On the East Coast those stores may stock more varieties of Conifer type lumber readily available.

In any case you still have environmental issues to contend with and if you go with Cedar or Redwood, it should still be treated in some way, just as Pine or Spruce, etc. is Green treated to endure the elements.

In any case if I was in your place (And I consider it often...(Sedona and surrounding locals) I'd also want to think of Budget and Aesthetics.

"Structures" to me, relates to various types of siding, beyond just decking and pole barns.

Steven Wolf

Answer 2

I live in the desert in NM and I haven't found any wood yet that can take the extreme dryness. Perhaps the new composites but I would definitely paint it white to reflect the heat and hold in what moisture you can. Before I lived on the Gulf Coast and I thought that weather was bad on wood but nothing like here. Glue lines seem to be the most difficult.

Answer 3

Take care of Hygiene and eat every well cooked/fried meal. Avoid any kind of bottled and very cool drinks. Drink 1 or 2 Glass water before meals, a little during meals and one or two Glass after one hour. Drink a little more water as your thirst (2 to 3 Litre water a day in very hot days more). Use always boiled water and if you like sweet drinks, make your own drinks with lemon and sugar sometime with a pinch of Soda (cooking soda). You can have some good named powder Beverages-Mix but not so cold. Do not eat unhygienic food outside.

Answer 4

I would use either redwood or cedar. Both do well in all climates, and are light in weight. You also get a nicer look then using treated lumber. The redwood and cedar are both very resistant to bugs.