When having a building project, you can either have a builder help you or you can DIY. When it comes to structural timber, a builder knows the quality to buy and the correct timber supplies you may require. If you are doing it yourself and have little experience, you might not have this information. You can easily buy the wrong timber, leading to wastage of money and an unstable structure. Note the things you need to consider to get the correct timber and timber supplies:
Site Assessment
Hire a timber expert to assess the site you want to build your structure on. You need to inform the specialist what you are building and where. Timber has classifications based on hazard/stress levels and durability classes, where the hazard levels determine what and where you can use the particular timber and the durability class determines how long the timber can last.
By assessing the site, the specialist identifies your needs, checks for potential pest attacks, checks for moisture content, inspects weather conditions, etc. These factors help him or her recommend the best timber and give advice on how to protect it from environmental factors, which involves applying rot, UV- and water-resistant coats.
Competitive Prices
When buying timber, look for several timber stores and compare prices. You want to get the lowest price without compromising on quality. You should also check what other people say about the particular stores. Reviews give you people's experiences and help you make the correct choice.
Do You Need Additional Services?
You can either buy long timber planks to cut later or take measurements and have them cut as required to make work easier for you. If you want the latter, ensure that the timber store you choose offers this service. You might spend more.
Do you have a way to transport the timber you purchase to the construction site? If not, choose a company that offers this service or hire transport services. Weigh the cost to know which one is pocket-friendly.
Timber Storage
Once you purchase timber and have it transported to the site, ensure you store it correctly. Moisture and pests can damage timber.
Stack the timber away from structures and openings and ensure it is above ground. You should also ensure the area is dry, clean and well-ventilated. If possible, try not to store timber outside where it can get exposed to environmental hazards; a garage or shed is okay. You might also need to place a protective layer below the timber and cover it up.
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