Reply by bbasiaga

I would think any of the normal hardwoods would be strong enough. As far as keeping it straight, its going to thermal cycle a lot, trying to gain/lose moisture whcih will warp it. I would guess your finish will be the key here…something that will help to seal in/out moisture to avoid the exchange during the heating cycles that occurr when the stove is running vs. when its not.

-Brian

-- Part of engineering is to know when to put your calculator down and pick up your tools.