Timber Durability Starts Here: Why Storage Matters More Than You Think

 

Choosing the right timber supplier isn't just about the quality of timber when it leaves the yard; it's about how that timber is stored, handled, and delivered to you. At MKM, we understand that timber durability starts long before the first cut. Whether you're a tradesperson tackling a large-scale build or a homeowner planning a decking project, the way your timber is stored from yard to site makes all the difference.

Key Factors That Affect Timber Durability

1. Moisture Content and Environmental Exposure

Timber naturally absorbs and releases moisture from the environment. If that moisture level fluctuates too much, it can cause the timber to warp, twist, or bow. Even pressure-treated timber, which is designed for outdoor use, needs correct handling and use to maintain its strength and ensure the treatment performs as intended.

2. Temperature Fluctuations and Direct Sunlight

Sudden changes in temperature cause timber to expand and contract, which can lead to small cracks or surface checking. Continuous exposure to direct sunlight can also cause colour fading and surface drying. Timber needs to be stored in shaded or covered areas to reduce temperature stress and UV exposure, so it stays in optimal condition until it reaches your project.

3. Air Circulation and Stacking Methods

Poor airflow around stacked timber traps moisture and encourages mould or staining. That's why timber is stored using spacers (stickers) between each layer, allowing air to move freely around every surface. This careful stacking method helps maintain straightness and surface quality, a small detail that makes a big difference once you start building.

4. Ground Contact and Base Support

Even seemingly dry ground or concrete can transfer moisture into timber by capillary action. To prevent this, timber should be raised on bearers or pallets, maintaining a minimum of around 150mm clearance from the ground. This simple but crucial step stops moisture absorption and helps timber stay true to its graded performance.

5. Treatment Quality and Species Selection

Not all timber species are equally durable. Some, like Western Red Cedar and European Oak, have natural resistance to decay. Others rely on pressure treatments to perform in exposed or damp environments. Timber that is sourced from trusted, sustainable suppliers is always better quality.

MKM stocks a comprehensive range for every application, from construction softwoods to premium hardwoods and engineered timbers. Each product is stored and handled according to its specific durability and treatment class.

Comparing Timber Storage Methods

Storage Method	Moisture Protection	Air Circulation	Structural Integrity	Best For
Raised on Bearers (≈150mm+)	Excellent. Prevents ground moisture	Very Good. Airflow beneath stack	Excellent as timber maintains straightness	All timber types
Covered with Ventilated Tarp	Very Good. Protects from rain	Good (if ends remain open)	Very Good as prevents weather exposure	Outdoor sites
Indoor Warehouse Storage	Excellent. Controlled environment	Good but depends on layout	Excellent as creates stable conditions	Joinery, planed, engineered timber
Stacked with Spacers	Good. Prevents moisture trapping	Excellent as provides full surface airflow	Excellent as prevents bowing	Longer boards, planed timber
Ground-Level Storage	Poor. Moisture ingress risk	Poor, due to limited ventilation	Poor due to high risk of warping	Not recommended

MKM combines multiple best-practice methods, raising, spacing, and covering timber appropriately for species and treatment type.

How MKM Ensures Timber Durability 

Expert Sourcing from Trusted Suppliers

Every MKM branch works with established, sustainable timber partners who meet strict quality and grading standards. This includes timber graded to BS EN structural grades C16 and C24, ensuring consistency and durability from the moment timber enters our yard. Whether you need construction-grade softwood or premium hardwood species, MKM's sourcing standards guarantee quality you can rely on.

Professional Storage from Day One

From delivery to dispatch, MKM applies industry best-practice storage and handling techniques. Timber is raised on bearers, stacked with aligned spacers, separated by species and treatment type, and stored in shaded or covered bays. This careful approach helps preserve structural stability and surface finish, so the timber you receive is ready to perform on your project.

Local Expertise, Built Around You

Each MKM branch is locally led by experts who understand how regional climate affects timber behaviour. Whether it's the damp west coast or drier eastern counties, your branch team can recommend the right species, treatment class, and storage advice for your job. That's what our "Built Around You" promise means in practice: personal, local expertise backed by national buying strength.

Stock Rotation and Quality Monitoring

Branches operate a first-in, first-out system so timber never sits in the yard longer than necessary. Regular inspections ensure every batch meets our storage and quality expectations before it reaches you. This systematic approach to stock management means you can trust that the timber leaving an MKM branch has been properly cared for throughout its time in the yard.

Delivery That Protects Your Timber

MKM's delivery vehicles are equipped for secure, stable transport, with proper restraint systems to prevent movement and weather protection where needed. We also schedule deliveries to match your build schedule, helping you avoid excess on-site storage. This attention to detail extends the professional care your timber receives all the way from our yard to your site.

Timber Budget and Grade Guide

Budget Level	Timber Type	Typical Applications	Key Benefits	Notes
Economy	Untreated C16 Softwood	Internal framing, joists	Cost-effective; meets strength standards	For use in dry, internal environments only
Mid-Range	Pressure-Treated C16/C24	Decking subframes, fencing, external framing	Enhanced protection; long lifespan outdoors	UC4 treated timber offers up to 15-year guarantees (when used correctly)
Premium	Hardwood / Specialty Softwood	Cladding, decking, joinery	Naturally durable, visually appealing	Western Red Cedar, European Oak, Accoya
Professional Grade	Engineered Timber	Beams, floor joists, roof trusses	Dimensional stability; reduced waste	LVL, glulam, and I-joists

Durability depends on correct treatment class, species, and exposure conditions. Always confirm with your local MKM expert before purchase to ensure you're selecting the most appropriate timber for your specific application.

Practical Timber Storage Tips for Your Site

Keep Timber Elevated

Use pallets or bearers to maintain at least 150mm clearance from the ground. This prevents moisture transfer from soil or concrete and allows air to circulate beneath the stack. Even on construction sites where conditions aren't perfect, this basic practice significantly extends timber life and maintains quality.

Use Spacers Between Layers

Place 25mm × 25mm stickers every 400–600mm along the stack between each layer of timber. Align spacers vertically in each stack to distribute weight evenly and prevent sagging. This technique is essential for maintaining straightness, particularly with longer boards.

Cover But Ventilate

Use waterproof covers or breathable membranes to protect timber from rain, but ensure the covering doesn't touch the timber directly. Leave ends open or loosely covered to prevent trapped moisture and condensation. Air circulation is just as important as weather protection.

Choose a Dry, Level Area

Select storage locations away from pooling water, drainage channels, and areas prone to flooding. If possible, position timber in shaded areas to avoid direct sunlight, which can cause surface checking and colour fading. For indoor storage, ensure adequate ventilation and avoid placing timber against external walls where condensation may occur.

Rotate and Inspect Regularly

Use older stock first and check stored timber periodically for signs of moisture damage, staining, or warping. If you notice any issues, improve ventilation, add additional covering, or relocate the stack. Early intervention can prevent minor storage issues from becoming serious problems.

Let Timber Acclimatise Indoors

When installing timber in enclosed spaces, allow the timber to acclimatise in the room for a minimum of 72 hours before installation. This lets the timber adjust to the internal humidity and temperature, reducing the risk of movement after installation. This is particularly important for planed or finished timber products.

Store Species Separately

Keep treated and untreated timber apart to avoid staining or cross-contamination. Different species and treatment types may require different storage conditions and separating them also prevents confusion during use. This is the same principle MKM follows in our timber yards.

Why Choose MKM for Your Timber Projects

Local Service, National Strength

With branches across the UK, MKM combines local expertise with national buying power, giving you a dependable, personal source for all your timber needs. Your local MKM isn’t just a supplier; it’s part of your community, run by people who understand local building practices and conditions.

Complete Timber Range

From structural framing timber to decking, fencing, cladding, and engineered beams, MKM offers a comprehen sive range under one roof. You’ll find everything you need in one place, ensuring consistency across your project and saving you time.

Expert Advice and Flexible Ordering

Our teams know timber inside and out. Whether you order online, by phone, or in branch, you’ll get friendly, practical guidance and convenient collection or delivery options. Trade customers can also benefit from flexible account facilities to support cash flow.

Built Around You

Everything we do, from stock selection to delivery timing, is designed around your project’s success. That’s the MKM difference: genuine service, expert knowledge, and flexibility that puts you first.

Timber Durability Starts with the Right Supplier

Durable timber depends on more than species or treatment, it’s about how it’s stored, handled, and delivered. At MKM, every board is responsibly sourced, professionally stored, and backed by local expertise to ensure lasting performance.

When you choose MKM, you’re not just buying timber, you’re gaining the benefit of decades of yard experience and storage standards that protect your materials before they ever reach your site.

Visit your local MKM branch to discuss your next timber project. Our experts will help you choose the right species, grade, and treatment for your application, all with the service and quality that are built around you.