Why timber failure happens on commercial projects (and how to avoid it)

We talk a lot about why timber is an excellent building material – but what about when things go wrong? While not at all common, timber failure on commercial projects can happen. From warped boards to constructions which fall apart far too quickly, it is important to understand why these failures happen in order to prevent them on your commercial site.

In this guide, we will dive into exactly why timber can fall apart (and spoiler alert: it is entirely avoidable!).

Choosing the Wrong Timber Species

Mistakes can occur before you have even started building. If you order an unsuitable timber species for your project, you are setting yourself up for failure, and your timber has very little chance of remaining structurally sound.

To prevent this problem, spend a little time exploring how to choose the right timber species. Our experts recommend looking at:

• Durability class: This refers to your timber’s natural resistance to rot and insect attack, which strongly influences its expected service life.
• Use class: Use class categorises timber by its exposure conditions. For example, Use Class 1 is suitable for indoor joinery, while Use Class 4 is required for timber in ground or freshwater contact, such as piles and marine structures.

You can also talk to our team, letting us know what you are building and its intended location, and we will recommend some great timber species which will stand up to your requirements.

Incorrect Installation of Timber Products

Once you have sorted the right timber species for your project, you then need to make sure you install it correctly. Timber is a natural material which constantly responds to its environment, absorbing and releasing moisture as conditions change. If it has not been installed with this movement in mind, the timber can come under internal stress.

For example, decking boards which are fixed too tightly with no allowance for expansion can begin to push up against each other and buckle as the timber naturally swells. On the other hand, if decking boards are spaced too far apart, it can lead to instability as the gaps become too wide. Follow directions on correct installation and use spacers where needed to ensure consistently correct gaps.

It is also vital that you use the correct fixings when installing your timber. The wrong type or size of screws, for instance, can weaken your timber, causing cracks around the fastener points or boards which pull away from their substructure. We recommend using appropriate corrosion-resistant fixings, such as hot-dip galvanised or stainless steel, depending on the timber species and exposure conditions.

Not Maintaining Your Timber

If you are not caring for your timber after installation, it could be a contributing factor to its failure.

There are some timber species, such as Ekki and Greenheart, which do not require much maintenance. These are durability class 1 timbers, and you can expect at least 25 years of service life when correctly specified, detailed and installed in suitable exposure conditions.

However, other species do need a little TLC to keep rot at bay, ensuring your structure stands the test of time. If you are using Pine outdoors, for instance, you will need to apply a preservative or sealant (such as an oil or stain) every 12-18 months. This boosts the durability of your timber against weather and insects, maintaining the structural integrity of your commercial timber project for years to come.

Find the Right Timber for Commercial Construction at EcoChoice

A sturdy, long-lasting commercial project always starts with a reliable timber species. Whether you are landscaping a pub garden or building a marine dock, specifying your timber is a task you simply cannot ignore. The good news? We are here to help.

Get in touch to find the right timber species for your commercial construction.