A Lesson in Timber Supply

A Lesson in Timber Supply

In last month’s edition, I spoke of the supply of a large, sectioned hardwood for an up-market pergola. I withheld details and photos until we had the owner’s permission to promote the project. We have since received that permission.

Going over the details, Bowens was to supply the following timber product.

• The species specified was Tallowwood; a species known for cracking in large sections, particularly on the ends
• Tallowwood was selected because it matched the surrounding timber
• The size was 200×200
• The 200×200 posts were to go in-ground. Tallowwood is class 1 (the highest) for in-ground situations
• The client’s original supplier was unable to supply the timber in the time specified, so we had a relatively short timeframe.

As it was, we sourced the material quickly. However, as the timber was about two years old, there was more cracking than expected.

How did Bowens approach the situation?

We successfully supplied the timber by implementing the following:

• We sent the architect photos of the extra cracking, so they were aware of these unexpected features
• We advised the builder to install the cracked ends in the ground, but also with a coating of bitumen paint for extra protection
• We advised the builder to seal the timber to slow down further moisture loss
• Our buying power was better than the client’s original supplier, so we suggested two extra-long pieces, so the builder had some selected posts to choose from.

How did we resolve the issues?

• Before supply, we informed the architect of the product’s condition, so they were aware of what to expect.
• We had an appreciation of the client’s budget so, through our better buying were in a position to suggest some extra posts
• We would strongly advise against using unseasoned timber where there is concrete in close proximity
• If there are large timber sections involved, as above, we advise using a recycled product where the wood, which can be up to 100 years old and largely seasoned.

Tallowwood is also a notorious tannin bleeder, and as the timber is still relatively high in moisture content, it has stained some surrounding concrete. We are assisting the builder to overcome this issue.

Bowens will never walk away when post-installation problems such as the above arise. Our brief is to keep goodwill with a client irrespective of where the fault lies, no matter the product involved.