An update on grading timber for structural use

This Wood Information Sheet explains the legal basis behind CE marking and the requirement to comply with the EU Construction Products Directive. The role of 'Harmonised standards' and CE marking in demonstrating compliance with the CPD is discussed.

Products which can be CE marked to Harmonised Standards currently...

Although the vast majority of structural timber in the UK is softwood, there is a significant interest in hardwoods from both temperate and tropical regions for structural applications. When using hardwoods in structures, the specifier may need to take more interest in the species, its origin and its moisture condition...

Philip O'Leary, head of TRADA Technology's Structural Investigations team, highlights his concerns about a lack of understanding in the industry about timber strength grading issues.

Timber as a natural material, is inherently variable, even within a single species. Strength grading of softwood and hardwood overcomes this, by assessing the...