In the construction industry, a project’s continuity depends on its size, scope, and complexity. When undertaking a construction project, one can easily predict its time-consuming nature. Due to various tangible and hidden factors, construction projects tend to last longer than the projected timeline. Given this possibility, one always looks for the proper storage of construction materials to avoid the wastage of resources and money. Among all the materials, lumber holds significant importance due to its delicate nature.
Lumber is defined as processed wood, cut into different sizes and used for building residential and commercial structures. It includes softwood, hardwood, seasoned, and unseasoned wood, depending on the nature of the project and application. It is commonly used for framing roofs, floors, and walls.
When it comes to storing the lumber, it is not a daunting task, given its susceptibility to various environmental factors. Any neglect in the storage can weigh heavily on your budget, derailing not only the project timeline but also budget management. Therefore, before storing the lumber, you must consider the pertinent questions: How Long Can You Store Lumber for Long-Term at a Construction Site? Is it a wise thing to store lumber for an indefinite time? What is the ideal Lumber storage duration for your construction project?
It is unavoidable to get caught in unpredictable circumstances, and you can be compelled to store the lumber. Here is the complete guideline of what factors affect lumber storage and how one can store lumber properly by using the best strategies and techniques.
For a detailed cost breakdown of small structures and efficient material usage, explore our guide on cost to build a 12×12 shed to complement your lumber planning.
The Risks of Storing Lumber Improperly for Long-term
Undoubtedly, proper storage of lumber is important for the structural integrity of your construction project. Owing to its delicate nature, lumber can become vulnerable to various destructive factors, leading to financial loss and decreased project efficiency. There are certain risks that can damage lumber in the case of poor storage practices.
- Owing to the hygroscopic nature of the wood, it possesses the ability to absorb moisture. To worse, storing lumber directly on the moist ground and uncovered can lead to moisture absorption. This moisture-ridden lumber can easily be rotted, reducing load-bearing capacity.
- Similarly, poorly preserved and moist wood is more susceptible to mold and pest infestation.
- Moreover, twisted and warped lumber due to poor preservation results in weak structural integrity.
- Poorly stacked Long-term lumber storage also causes material waste, financial costs, and prolonged project delays.
According to a research study, 49% of lumber is wasted in the construction industry primarily due to poor & outdated storage practices, pest infestation, and moisture.
For smart cost control and reduced material waste, explore our preliminary estimating services to plan your lumber needs effectively.
Environmental Factors Affecting the Lumber Storage at Construction Site
It is difficult to store lumber for a longer period at the construction site. However, the environmental factors surrounding the site can severely affect the Lumber preservation on site. Here is the list of damaging factors for your lumber.
● Moisture Content
Moisture is highly damaging to the storage health of lumber. If you are storing lumber on the ground consisting excessive moisture content, lumber will either rot or warp.
● High Humidity
Humid air is also responsible for damaging the lumber. High humidity in the storage location precipitates mold growth, causing damage to wood fibers.
● Temperature Fluctuations
Stable temperature conditions maintain the longevity of lumber. On the contrary, unsteady temperatures, fluctuating between freezing, thawing and scorching heat, can easily weaken structural integrity.
● Direct Exposure to Sunlight
If you have stored lumber in an open space, direct and unrestricted exposure to sunlight can degrade the surface of lumber and cause cracking and discoloration.
● Pest Damage
Furthermore, proximity to the ground and space littered with harmful pests and insects is highly harmful for lumber storage.
Where Should One Store Lumber?
Given the factors affecting the Wood storage at construction site, it is pertinent to ask for a suitable location for storing lumber for construction project. Most importantly, lumber needs to be kept somewhere dry and with good air circulation and ventilation. Lumber should be stored indoors whenever possible with low moisture content. Moreover, Wood must not be exposed to rainwater or direct sunlight. If you are storing lumber at the site, you can store lumber racks horizontally and vertically, depending on the types of wood used in the project.
Proper storage is essential to make the most of 100% accurate lumber takeoff services, ensuring quality materials are preserved until installation.
The Best-Suited Construction Site Lumber Storage Tips
If you are looking for the best-suited construction site lumber storage tips to enhance the longevity of your lumber, here are the tips.
Elevating Off the Ground
Storing the lumber on the floor is not advisable due to pest infestation, poor air circulation, and high moisture content. Therefore, lumber should be stored properly by elevating it off the ground. For this purpose, blocks and pellets are used to avoid the lumber’s contact with the ground. Lay a sheet of plywood or OSB down over the ground. It is necessary for Lumber moisture control on site.
Well-Protected Storage Location
The location of the storage area for Lumber preservation on site also holds significant importance. Always vouch for the location that is airy and shady. It must be well-drained to avoid humidity and mold growth. Choose the indoors instead of the outdoors because of the environmental conditions that can prove harmful for lumber storage.
Stacking Arrangement
Managing lumber storage is not everyone’s cup of tea. But you can enhance the storage period of lumber by properly stacking it. You can stack lumber with spacers between each layer to allow the air circulation and prevent twisting. You can also store seasoned and unseasoned wood horizontally for a good air flow. Vertical arrangement is also possible. Spacers can be aligned vertically and spaced 18-24 inches along the racks. It will prevent water from seeping in from the floor.
Cover properly to protect from External Elements!
You can also use a breathable and waterproof tarp to protect lumber from rainfall and excessive moisture. Place a few bricks over the tarp to level the pressure on the lumber. It will not prevent condensation build-up, but also disperse the moisture, reducing the chances of warping.
Rigorous Inspection for Pest Control
It is important to regularly inspect the lumber storage sites to identify the signs of pest attack, mold growth, and mildew. By inspecting these sites, one can take proactive measures to protect lumber from the destruction posed by pests.
Organizing Lumber Stocks Effectively
Organization is also very important for Proper lumber storage. Storing lumber on racks vertically or horizontally can work equally well, depending on the storage available for lumber.
Horizontal racks should be installed at least 8-12 inches off the floor, so you have enough room to sweep under them to keep the area dust-free. For a small space area, vertical organization is more suitable.
Check Seasonal Considerations
For better protection, one must take into account seasonal considerations. For example, in the dry season, the core focus should be on protection from heatwaves and wildfires. On the other hand, in humid & wet seasons, precautions must be taken regarding the rains and mold growth.
Learn how accurate framing estimating can support better lumber usage and storage planning.
Recommended Lumber Storage Duration
You can easily determine the recommended storage period based on the types of lumber.
- Untreated Lumber
It is the lumber that is not processed and finished. You can store untreated lumber for a two to six-month duration. The storage also depends on the protection from the aforementioned factors.
- Treated Lumber
Treated and well-processed lumber can be stored for six to twelve months. However, for long-term Lumber durability on construction site, you need to protect it from excess water.
- Engineered Lumber
Engineered Lumber, such as plywood, laminated veneer lumber, and OSB, can be stored up to 7 months if kept in original packaging.
- Kiln-dried Lumber
Due to low to little moisture content, such kinds of lumber can be stored upto 4 to 9 months.
Safety Measures for Lumber Storage
Always keep these safety measures in mind while setting up the storage for lumber.
- It is important to keep your pathways clear and without obstructions
- Keep lumber stacks stable and balanced. Put heavier boards at the bottom of the stack for better safety.
- Store lumber in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of chemically harmful gases.
- Ensure fire safety protocols in your storage area, especially during the sweltering and dry season.
- The hygiene of the storage area must be prioritised to keep it clean and dust-free.
- Always wear protective gear while dealing with high-stacked lumber racks.
- For theft prevention, proper fencing should be established around the area.
- The entry of unauthorized people should not be permitted in the backdrop of safety measures.
Guidelines on When to Avoid Long-term Storage
Here are some comprehensive Lumber storage guidelines that offer insights into when to avoid long-term storage of wood products.
- For high-finish lumber, storage is not recommended due to low moisture content. Therefore, in-time delivery should be preferred.
- In the case of Insufficient and poor storage conditions, storage is not advisable. It will cause more damage.
- In areas surrounded by high security concerns, one must not store lumber in such areas.
- If your project has fallen victim to indefinite delays, storing the lumber on-site will only enhance the chances of damage.
In such cases, opting for freelance estimating services can help you manage fluctuating project timelines and avoid unnecessary long-term lumber storage.
Are You Looking For Expert Guidance on Lumber Long-term Storage?
If you have undertaken your construction project and are clueless about the informed lumber storage requirements, turn to Cost Estimator. We truly acknowledge the importance of lumber for your structural projects. Being expensive, you cannot afford to waste resources on your project. In the case of a project delay, you look for expert options to store lumber properly. This is why the Cost Estimator is here at your disposal to guide you throughout the lumber storage journey. Our experts schedule meetings with clients belonging to diverse professions and understand the project requirements and lumber involved in the construction. After analyzing the project, our expert estimators offer the best storage solutions tailored to your project needs based on Best practices for storing lumber. Besides consultation, we also offer Lumber Takeoff Services, where our experienced and certified experts quantify construction material, equipment, and labor wages for the project. With our in-depth industry knowledge and proven industry strategies, we will ensure that you store your lumber properly without any loss. Contact us now!
Final Thoughts
To sum up, one cannot negate the importance of lumber in the construction project. But managing and storing the lumber in the case of delay is not everyone’s cup of tea. It demands expertise, knowledge, and hands-on experience. With proper techniques and storage conditions, you can store lumber for longer periods. The preservation lies in a controlled environment, regular inspection, safety measures, storage location, and industry’s best practices. Let our experts help you preserve lumber. Hire our cost estimators for outstanding and accurate consultation. To further explore the services that we offer, visit our website now!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is it advisable to store lumber outside?
Yes, you may store lumber outside. But it must be properly protected and contained low humidity in environment and good air circulation. In the absence of these conditions, indoor is a good choice.
-
Should I seal the ends of lumber for long-term storage?
Yes, it is important to seal the ends of lumber with wax, paint, or sealers to ensure long-term storage.
-
What are the ideal humidity levels for storing lumber?
You can store lumber on the site, where humidity levels are between 40% and 50%.
-
Does the storage requirement depend on the types of wood?
Yes, it depends on the wood types. For example, seasoned wood is air-dried and contains low moisture. On the other hand, unseasoned wood possessed high water content. Hence, both types will demand different protocols.
