We see hundreds of lists of timber supplies from customers every month. Some easy are easy to understand and some are not from both the trade and DIY alike. When there is confusion or ambiguity a few simple questions always gets to the bottom of things.
We thought a few tips on how to present a timber specification might help you. This will more useful to our DIY customers rather than our trade customers.
Timber is 3D
This may sound obvious; a length of timber has three dimensions. Length, width and thickness. It is important to state all three. It is surprising how many customers visiting our timber yard in Deddington only provide two, then look totally surprised when asked for the third dimension.
Units of measurement
It does not matter whether you think imperial or metric. We understand both so just use which ever units you are more comfortable with.
If you are imperial give the length in feet then the width and thickness in inches. If you are metric give the length in metres then the width and thickness in millimetres. Try and avoid using centimetres.
Putting it together
The most important thing to do is be consistent. Use the same units of measurement throughout your list and keep the dimensions of the timber in the same order. Don’t mix up the measurements or switch between metric and imperial. We find it easiest to give the quantity first, followed by length then width and thickness in any order. For instance,
4 – 3.6m 47x100mm and 4 – 12’ 4”x2”
are both very clear examples.
Continue in this way until your list is complete. For example, the following list leaves no room for doubt.
4 – 3.6m 47x100mm
10 – 4.2m 47x225mm
5 – 4.8m 75x200mm
8 – 3.0m 25x150mm
If you give us a clear timber specification you will be served in double quick time without the need for too much cross examination.
We look forward to seeing you soon with your timber requirements for your building, landscaping and DIY projects.