The Thorogood Difference…
When it comes to construction, why compromise? Our beams come from the same long-established, reliable sawmills that provide us with our joinery and furniture timber, so the quality is second to none. Talk to us about our special stock of Air Dried beams too - we do them properly.
Description
Oak has been valued for millennia as an essential material in the construction of framed buildings, cladding, fence posts, and various other applications. The robust nature of green oak allows it to endure extensive use while contributing a refine drustic aesthetic to architectural projects.
Supplied predominantly in its “green” state, these beams are processed directly from the log, retaining their natural moisture content. This characteristic permits the oak to undergo gradual drying post-installation. Consequently, structures incorporating green oak are engineered to accommodate anticipated changes such as shrinkage, splitting, and twisting, thereby ensuring both durability and structural integrity.
The inherent beauty of green oak beams enhances interior and exterior spaces through unique grain patterns and rich coloration, serving as prominent features in exposed ceilings, support elements, or decorative details. Furthermore, green oak is a sustainable resource, offering an environmentally responsible building solution.
We offer a bespoke cutting service capable of supplying freshly sawn oak in dimensions up to 12 metres in length, tailored to project requirements. For urgent needs, our comprehensive stock of both fresh sawn and air-dried oak beams is available on site, facilitating prompt fulfilment and continued progress on your project.
Working Properties
Green oak is relatively easy to work with when freshly cut due to its higher moisture content, which makes it softer and less resistant to hand and machine tools. It can be sawn, shaped, and mortised with less effort compared to seasoned oak, allowing for precise joinery and detailed craftsmanship. However, as the timber dries, it gradually becomes harder and more challenging to manipulate, so most shaping and fitting are best completed shortly before installation. Fixings such as nails and screws can be driven into green oak with little difficulty, though allowances should be made for movement as the wood dries and settles.
Physical Properties
When dry, oak is 675kg per m3. In the green (wet) can weigh in excess of 900kg per m3. We recommend using stainless steel fitting with green oak.
Durability
The heartwood of oak is rated as having very good resistance to decay.
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