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Timber talk: Top tips for storage

Timber talk: Top tips for storage

Published on March 31, 2023

Posted in Advice & Reviews

by

2 min read

Timber for internal use

It’s one of the most resilient and versatile building products on the market, but improper storage of timber can lead to unnecessary damage and wastage.

Let’s face it, British weather is hard to predict in all but one respect – it rains, a lot. All that wet weather doesn’t just dampen our spirits, it can be potentially damaging to timber, as well. That’s why, where possible timber should be stored safely undercover, protecting it from the elements and ensuring that its key properties aren’t compromised.

There are multiple benefits to keeping timber dry. Timber expands when it takes on water and then contracts when exposed to sunlight or wind, fluctuation in moisture content that can compromise the rigidity of the material. Ensuring your timber is well protected from the elements means you can use it in confidence, knowing its fundamental properties have not been altered.

three men stood in a warehouse working

When using timber internally, a ‘dry’ product is also much preferred. Using wet timber, and then letting it dry after fixing, can lead to the material warping or moving; significantly impacting the overall integrity of the product.

Damp timber also weighs more, so can be heavier when needing to be transported – a simple factor, but one that can add expense to haulage of goods to site.

But it’s not just wet weather that timber needs sheltering from. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can also impact the product’s properties, with the UVs leading to the discolouring or greying of timber.

Whatever the weather, MKM do all we can to make sure you have access to top quality timber products. That’s why  many of our branches have dedicated, covered storage areas, to protect our timber from the very worst British weather can throw at it. By taking care to protect our products, we are able to provide you with timber that delivers all of the benefits synonymous with the material – durability, versatility, reliability and strength.

Find out more about MKM’s complete timber and joinery offering online or visit your local branch.