What Is Structural Carcassing Of Construction Timber?

What Is Structural Carcassing Of Construction Timber?

Structural carcassing timber, also known as engineered wood, is a type of timber used in construction for load-bearing purposes. It is made by combining different types of wood products, such as plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or laminated veneer lumber (LVL), to create a strong and durable material.

Carcassing timber is commonly used in the construction of floors, walls, and roof trusses, as well as beams, columns, joists, studs, and rafters. This type of timber is available in various grades, including general purpose, structural grade, stress-graded, moisture-resistant, exterior grade, and fire-retardant. It can also be treated with chemicals to improve its durability. Some of the benefits of using structural carcassing timber include its strength and durability, versatility, ease of workability, environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness.

Key Takeaways:

• Structural carcassing timber is used for load-bearing purposes in construction.
• It is made by combining different wood products to create a strong material.
• Carcassing timber is used in floors, walls, roofs, and various structural elements.
• It is available in different grades and can be treated for improved durability.
• Using structural carcassing timber offers benefits such as strength, versatility, and cost-effectiveness.

Different Types of Structural Carcassing Timber

Structural carcassing timber is categorized into different types based on their grading and treatment. The most common types include C16 timber, C24 timber, and treated structural timber.

C16 timber is a cost-effective option that meets performance requirements and is commonly used for internal applications like floor and roof joists. It has a strength grade of C16, which means it can handle moderate loads. This type of timber is versatile and widely available, making it a popular choice in construction projects.

On the other hand, C24 timber offers greater strength and can handle higher loads and wider spans. It has a higher strength grade of C24, which means it can withstand heavier loads and longer spans compared to C16 timber. This makes it suitable for more demanding applications such as beams and columns. C24 timber has more growth rings and higher overall density, resulting in improved durability and stability.

Treated structural timber is another option that is recommended for areas prone to moisture or fungal attacks. It undergoes a treatment process to enhance its resistance to decay and pests. Treated timber is commonly used in outdoor applications such as decking, fencing, and landscaping. It provides added protection against harsh environmental conditions, extending the lifespan of the timber.

Popular Uses of Carcassing Timber in Construction

Carcassing timber is a versatile material that finds extensive use in various construction applications. Its strength and durability make it suitable for load-bearing structures, while its ease of workability allows for flexibility in design. Some of the popular uses of carcassing timber in construction include:

1. Joists and Rafters

Joists and rafters are essential components of a building’s framework. Carcassing timber is commonly used to construct these horizontal structural elements that support the floors and roofs of buildings. The strength of carcassing timber ensures the structural integrity and stability of these crucial elements.

2. Wallplates and Stud Partitions

Wallplates, also known as sole plates, are horizontal timber members that form the base of a wall structure. They provide a stable foundation for the vertical stud partitions, which are used to divide interior spaces. Carcassing timber is an ideal choice for wallplates and stud partitions due to its strength, stability, and ease of installation.

3. False Work and Noggins

False work refers to temporary structures used to support formwork during construction projects. Carcassing timber is often used for creating these temporary supports due to its load-bearing capacity and affordability. Additionally, noggins, which are horizontal timber members used to provide additional support and stability to floors and walls, are also made from carcassing timber.

4. Fencing Panels and Pallets

Carcassing timber is frequently used in the construction of fencing panels, which provide privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal to outdoor spaces. Its strength and durability make it suitable for withstanding weather conditions and daily wear and tear. Additionally, carcassing timber is commonly used in the manufacturing of pallets, which are used for storage and transportation of goods.

As you can see, carcassing timber plays a crucial role in various construction projects, providing the necessary strength, durability, and versatility for building robust structures.

Table: Popular Uses of Carcassing Timber in Construction

Sizes and Availability of Carcassing Timber

When it comes to construction projects, having the right size of carcassing timber is crucial. Luckily, this versatile material is available in a wide range of sizes to suit various needs. Common dimensions include 47x100mm, 47x125mm, 47x150mm, 47x175mm, 47x200mm, 47x225mm, 75x150mm, and 75x225mm. These sizes can be easily adjusted by sawing the timber to the desired length.

However, it’s important to note that altering the length may affect the strength grading of the timber. In such cases, regrading may be necessary, especially for load-bearing elements. To ensure the highest quality and compliance with industry standards, it is recommended to source carcassing timber from reputable timber suppliers.

Timber suppliers play a significant role in providing a wide range of structural timber options to choose from. They are well-versed in British standards for quality assurance, making it easier for you to find the right size and specification of sawn carcassing timber for your construction needs. Furthermore, many suppliers offer convenient delivery services, making the procurement process efficient and hassle-free.