The Benefits of Using Oak for Construction

Jan 10, 2024 | Blog

Timber is a natural material choice for versatile construction sectors. It is also the most favoured material for all the timber merchants in Hampshire. Its availability, strength, eco-friendliness and longevity have made it a popular material for various construction purposes.

There are several wood species to choose from, and selecting the right timber type takes work. So, here we outline some of the benefits of using oak for construction.

Why should you choose oak for construction?

Let’s look at the many advantages oak brings to the construction industry.

1. Excellent strength and durability
Oak is a medium-density hardwood (around 720kg/m3). Yet its strength and durability surpass many other timber species. Oak, in that sense, can beat some tropical hardwoods as well.

2. Low maintenance
Since oak is one of the most durable timber types, it requires little maintenance. Hence, it could last and go unscathed over a prolonged period. Moreover, exposure to the sun and the harsh environment enhances its aesthetic. Exposure to the sun brings out its silvery look. On the other hand, exposure to rain causes the oak to develop a warm and blackened hue.

3. A stunning appearance
When oak is aged by weather or preserved with a fitting varnish, the overall beauty of it increases. Its distinctive look manifests a vintage appearance. Moreover, the rich colouring and the attractive woodgrain add a layer of an elegant texture. Its overall rustic look is stunningly pleasing.

4. Versatility
Oak is an extremely versatile wood type. It is highly adaptable and malleable. It starts soft, but when dry, it becomes rugged and durable — making it a stellar choice for use across many projects.

Oak can be used for both internal and outdoor works. It can be used for interior works for supportive frames, beams, decorative features and flooring. For outdoor work, it can be used for cladding, fencing, decking, and waterworks, to name a few. The strength and durability of oak also make it a suitable material for constructing retaining walls and raised beds.

5. Affordability
Oak is a highly affordable hardwood. It falls in the gap of cheap and highly abundant softwoods such as pine and spruce on one hand and expensive tropical hardwoods such as Iroko and Sapele on the other. So, it is the best mid-range timber in the market. It equally excels in terms of durability, strength, affordability and availability.

Are you looking for quality oak beams for timber construction projects? Timbershed Sawmill, one of the eminent timber merchants in Hampshire, can help you with any oak timber construction project.