Softwood grades

[r3nov8or]

Some would also contend that VNLing two smaller pieces can result in a more stable, even stronger, single member, as you can choose to have the grains work against each other

[Moondog55]

Sometimes going to LVL can be cheaper, I'd use S/H timber if I could get it in the right sizes and at a better cost

[ErrolFlynn]

I've been scouting Facebook Marketplace. There's a Free Stuff section. Looking through it can be tedious, but occasionally there's the odd posting of people wanting stuff removed (eg. kitchen, pergola, shed, etc). A lot of the stuff should have gone straight to the dump, but there are a few gems from time to time. Maybe the kids have grown and the cubby house is no longer required, or a house is being demolished and it's cheaper to have people pick through the rubble (eg. rafters, floor joists) rather than taking it to the dump.