Woodframe Construction? Why You Need to Store Your Timber Carefully

Posted on: 24 September 2020

If you have a major construction project ahead and you are responsible for ordering all the relevant supplies, then you need to employ an approach known as 'just in time'. You will need to take a leaf out of the logistics book and balance deliverability, availability and cost carefully so that the project goes ahead successfully. But you may also need to consider other elements, especially when it comes to your timber supply. How should you look after this valuable resource until it's ready to be used?

Storing Timber

Some materials are less prone to damage than others and can be left to their own devices on site. Concrete, plastic or metal may not suffer at the hands of the elements in the short term while contractors get on with their work. Timber, on the other hand, is highly susceptible to exposure, and you need to be very careful here. This is not a cheap commodity, after all, especially if it has already been premade at a remote location.

Understanding the Risks

You need to liaise carefully with each contractor so that you know when to schedule the delivery. You will need to have a dedicated storage area so that you do not expose the timber to excess moisture or the harsh rays of the sun. If you are not careful, wood could begin to decay and lose its colour. It might expand and shrink in accordance with the temperature and, as a consequence, lose a lot of its moisture content.

Careful Approach

If you don't have a dedicated building available, ensure that you lift your timber supplies off the ground and store them on top of a trestle or wooden pallet. The timber should not overhang the sides and be subject to extra stress as, in the worst-case scenario, it could begin to warp. You will also need waterproof coverings to protect the timber from not just heavy rain but also humidity in the air.

Other Considerations

In an ideal scenario, store your timber indoors but take steps to protect it from moisture as well, as certain buildings may have a high humidity content in any case. Don't be tempted to wrap the timber completely but ensure that air can circulate to an extent.

Best Scenario

If you become a master at logistics, you may be able to arrange for delivery just prior to construction. In any case, talk with your timber supplier to make sure that you approach this task correctly.

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