C-Rack Materials - United States
Everything you need to source materials for your C-rack build from US suppliers. The C-rack's curved design requires careful timber selection for the arms.
Home Depot
Your primary supplier for lumber, hardware, and finishing supplies.
Lumber
- 2x4 studs for uprights and frame
- 1x6 or 1x8 pine boards for curved arms
- 3/4" plywood for curved template
- Cedar boards for outdoor builds
- Dowel rods (1" diameter) for arm pegs
Hardware & Finishing
- 3/8" carriage bolts and hex nuts
- Wood screws (#8 and #10)
- Wood glue (Titebond III for outdoor)
- Foam pipe insulation for board protection
- Polyurethane finish (water or oil-based)
- Sandpaper (80, 120, 220 grit)
Pro Tip
Use Home Depot's free wood cutting service for all straight cuts. For the curved arm sections, you will need a jigsaw. Home Depot also offers tool rental if you do not own one.
Lowe's
Alternative supplier with competitive pricing on cedar and premium lumber.
Materials Available:
- Full range of dimensional lumber and sheet goods
- Premium cedar selections (often better priced)
- Hardware, fasteners, and adhesives
- Finishing products and sandpaper
Ace Hardware
Best for specialty hardware and marine-grade fasteners.
Best For:
- Stainless steel bolts for coastal environments
- Marine-grade hardware and adhesives
- Specialty fasteners and hard-to-find sizes
- Project advice from knowledgeable staff
C-Rack Specific Tips
The C-rack's curved arms are its defining feature. Select straight, knot-free boards for the arm pieces since knots create weak points when cutting curves. Appearance-grade pine or clear cedar works best.
Remember that US lumber dimensions are nominal: a "1x6" actually measures 3/4" x 5-1/2". Our plans account for these actual dimensions. For coastal areas, use stainless steel hardware throughout and apply marine-grade polyurethane for the finish.