When using the cutout from a deck as the piece for the hatch cover, what wood do people recommend for the frame and under the deck opening.
I used some alder on the last one I did and my hatch covers cupped a bit as the alder moved. They are ok but was wandering what would have been a better choice. I don't really like using oak around water. All the pieces get epoxy coated to seal them.
We use Port Orford Cedar under the hatch opening and around the hatch lid. The cedar is very light weight and matches our frames. We use a box joint to build the frame and a 1/2 rabbit to recess 1/2 plywood into a 3/4 inch deep frame. The box joint and the epoxy joint of the 1/2 ply help prevent cupping.