21.   The end grain of the boards is very porous, and it often absorbs moisture that can rot the boards.

22.   The end grain of the dowel will show, and will be dark when it is varnished.

23.   The end grain ought to match well enough to pass a fairly close inspection.

24.   The idea is to retard the loss of moisture through the end grain, which otherwisde will be so rapid that severe cracking will result.

25.   The method to use depends on the strength required and whether visible end grain bothers you.

26.   The shingles are particularly prone to decay because they are drawing up water at their butts, where the end grain is very absorbent.

27.   They were originally intended for planing end grain.

28.   They will also grip better in the end grain of wood.

29.   Use either a chamfer or a round-over bit to minimize the amount of exposed end grain, then seal the ends with preservative.

30.   Water can also penetrate into the tops of the fence posts where the end grain is exposed.