Aluminum siding for a 2x4?

[IronWing]

I'm working on a project, sort of a railing structure, that will result in a 2x4 being exposed to the elements. This top board will be oriented horizontally, wide side up. I'm wondering if someone makes flashing preformed to cover a 2x4? I was thinking of a prefab U-channel made of light weight metal. I searched around on flashing but came up short. Maybe this would be called something else? Aluminum or galvanized or enameled steel would work. Any ideas if such a thing exists?

 

[marvdmartian]

No idea about what you're talking about, but I presume you're at least using pressure treated lumber?

Why not use cedar, or redwood? Both have excellent durability in the elements, and could conceivably last a couple decades out in the weather.

Another idea is to check the non-wood substitutes they have out there, like plastic boards, similar to what they have for decking these days. They're designed to be UV resistant, so will last for years also.

Other than that, a good primer and paint will protect as good, if not better, than what you're looking for, imho.

 

[mizzou]

flashing is a requirement by code sometimes

i've never worked with it before

 

[BoomerD]

If the metal is there for protecting the wood, how about a good coat of paint?

 

[DrPizza]

You could try an aluminum rain gutter. I'd have to go out and check, but I think they're very close to the size of a 2x4. It would result in you probably needing to make two bends against the bottom edge of the 2x4, but shouldn't be that hard to do that.

 

[lxskllr]

I wouldn't sheathe wood that way. It'll inevitably trap water underneath and cause rotten spots. I'd use water seal, and perhaps paint.

 

[Jeff7]

Just use aluminum pipe instead.

(Because aluminum is quite excellent. Granted, it's no stainless steel or iridium, but it's pretty good. Bonus points for getting it anodized.)

 

[BoomerD]

Just use aluminum pipe instead.

(Because aluminum is quite excellent. Granted, it's no stainless steel or iridium, but it's pretty good. Bonus points for getting it anodized.)

Bonus points for using transparent aluminum...

 

[Jeff7]

Bonus points for using transparent aluminum...

Sure thing. How long do you need it to last?

 

[DaTT]

Call up your local Garage door company and ask if they can bend some aluminum for you. They do flashing all the time with new door installs. Or a window guy just the same. Also, as posted above in the first post, I don't really understand what is it you want.

 

[Squisher]

How about using a railing cover that is used with composite decking? It's for use with a 4X4 but it might serve your purpose.

 

[MikeyIs4Dcats]

what you're asking for is called "break metal" in the industry. Your local commercial window installers would be a good source.