Storing Lumber Properly
Posted on: 31 December 2015
If you had just finished a remodeling project in your home, you may have a few pieces of lumber left over. You have the choice in bringing lumber back to a hardware store or lumberyard for monetary compensation, or you may want to hang on to a few pieces in case another project arises in the future. Proper storage methods need to be administered to keep this wood in the best of shape so you do not lose out on your investment. Here are some tips to use when storing lumber.
Lie Pieces Horizontally
When storing lumber, it is best to keep the pieces horizontal rather than vertical. Placing pieces flat will help reduce the chance of warping if the humidity or the temperature happens to fluctuate in the area where the lumber is kept. Vertically stored pieces will be more at risk of bending if they are not stored compactly between like-sized items. Rather than take this risk, lie pieces flat. Make sure the largest piece is on the bottom and stack pieces from large to small to help avoid bending of edges.
Raise The Stack Slightly
To help keep lumber from becoming moist, raising the entire stack off the floor or ground can be helpful. Make sure the items you use as raisers, such as wood or cinder blocks or bricks, are placed every foot or two beneath the bottom piece of lumber so it remains in a flat condition. Place a few underneath the middle portion as well. Storing lumber outside or on cement or concrete can be harmful to its structure as moisture will most likely make its way into the wood.
Raising the stack will keep it from retaining water due to condensation. Check the level of the bottom piece of lumber before adding additional pieces. Adjust the risers if necessary so the stack remains flat.
Keep Temperature In Mind
If you have set plans for lumber, it is best to store it in an area with similar atmospheric conditions to the spot it will be ultimately used. If you plan on using it outdoors, store it in a shed or garage without heat. If you are going to use it to construct a piece of furniture, store it in an attic or workroom inside the home. When lumber is moved from one type of condition to one very different, it may expand or contract in its new location. This can compromise the durability of the wood, making it more prone to premature damage.
For lumber in your area, contact a company such as Henning Building Supply Co Inc.
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