Best wood for a sign

[greybeard]

Greetings,

I could use a little advice as to the best wood to use for a sign that will be outdoors a good part of it's life. I might also add where it will be outdoors is by the shore in Ocean City, MD. I'm carving this sign for a friend who visits there almost every weekend pretty much year 'round. It will be a welcome to her property.

I know teak and mahogany are good for outdoors, but what about cypress? Is there any other woods I should consider?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Regards,
Greybeard.

[Lynn O. Doughty]

Redwood. Expensive but there is nothing better. I carved and hung sign back in the 70's and while I've had to paint the letters a couple times the wood is in great shape and should last another 35 years.

[papasar]

Ditto the redwood if you can get it. A local sign carver/author used it for years but has switched over to a synthetic material. He paints and gold leafs his signs.
Bill K.

[greybeard]

Much appreciated information. I thank the both of you for your replies. Redwood it is, there is a Lumber yard about an hour away that specializes in cedars, redwoods and other regular and exotic woods.

Thanks and good health to yas,
Greybeard.