It is a pretty exciting time in your life. You have finally put together the resources needed to build your home. However, in all that excitement, do not forget to select the right structural timber for the project. In case you are feeling lost, you can always refer to the advice of the experts associated with leading timber frame companies. Or you can keep reading this blog, where useful information has been shared.
What Should Be Considered While Selecting Structural Timber?
People associated with leading timber frame companies advise new homeowners to consider the following when selecting timber for their new home.
The Right Grade Matters
There are multiple grades of structural timber available in the market. Hence, it is easy to get confused. The key lies in having the right information.
For example, it is best to use cost-effective C16 timber for internal stud walls and rafters. Additionally, one can select C24 timber if the project involves wide and open floor plans. This particular timber grade is also perfect for heavy-duty roof structures.
Kiln Dried Timber Is The Best
Experts recommend using kiln-dried timber with a moisture content of 15%–18% for all internal surfaces in a new home. Using unseasoned wood is a bad idea. When the HVAC would start blowing hot air in full blast, the unseasoned wooden surfaces would shrink.
And when that happens, your new home would then have cracked plasterboards, squeaky floors and possibly compromised joints. For the best results, always procure “dry-graded” timber for your home to keep every corner of the property future-proof from the get-go.
Hardwood, Softwood, And Engineered Wood
In case you are planning to have exposed aesthetically designed beams in your new home, source English Oak or Larch timber. Why? Well, English Oak and Larch timber are naturally durable and extremely resilient to rot.
Alternatively, if the design of your new home has massive spans, then it is best to source engineered “I-Joists” or Glued Laminated Timber. Engineered joists might be a modern alternative. But bear this in mind that engineered wood is made by using real wood bonded by high-strength adhesive. The best part about engineered wood is that it has no natural defects. Additionally, structures made with engineered wood will be lighter but equally strong as similar-sized sections made with natural wood.
Make Your Home Safe From The Beginning
When you keep the above-mentioned aspects in your mind while selecting structural timber for your home, you are securing its future from the beginning.
When the timber is high-grade and responsibly sourced, you are doing your part to preserve the environment. At the same time, you would build a home that will not creak with a roof that will not bow to the strength of the natural elements.
Additionally, the right structural timber protects your home’s future. This is why it is best that you avoid cutting corners and ensure the structural timber is sourced from a reliable supplier like BE Timber Frame. To learn more about the right grade of timber for your home, seek advice from the experts in case of confusion.