The Journey of a Timber Beam: From Forest to Construction Site
Every piece of wood has a story that starts long before it reaches the timber yard, and, ultimately, the building or piece of furniture it’s used to construct.
As family-run timber merchants with more than 100 years of experience, we watch this process unfold daily – from the careful selection of trees to the final delivery at building sites across the country.
Ever wondered how a tree becomes the timber in your home? Or why some wood travels thousands of miles while other pieces come from forests just down the road?
Let’s follow the journey from forest to building site and discover what makes timber such a special building material.
The Art of Selection
There is a myriad of different forms of timber, all with unique aesthetic characters and physical characteristics.
European Oak is grown in managed British and European woodlands and is renowned for its durability and character, while imported timber like sapele offers rich colour and exceptional stability. Each species has unique properties that make it perfect for specific uses.
Our locally sourced softwood includes Douglas Fir, Larch and Western Red Cedar, prized for their strength and natural resistance to decay
Pine on the other hand offers versatility and cost-effectiveness for everyday construction needs. Before any tree is harvested it must meet our very stringent specification on timber quality. Throughout the milling process it is assessed for its suitability for construction grades of timber.
From Forest to Mill
At our sawmill in Wiltshire, each log begins its transformation. First, we conduct a detailed assessment, analysing knot patterns, grain direction, and potential stress points.
Performing careful examination on a log-by-log basis helps determine the best cutting pattern to maximise both quality and yield.
We combine modern scanning technology to best utilise each sawn board. This combined with over a century of expertise ensuring the highest quality timber possible.
The Science of Seasoning
Fresh-cut construction timber contains high levels of moisture that must be carefully reduced.
Our kiln-drying process follows strict schedules, tailored to each species and timber size. Oak requires different drying from Pine, and thick beams need extra care compared to planks.
This controlled drying prevents warping and splitting while enhancing the timber’s natural durability. It can take weeks or months, but it’s essential for creating stable, reliable building materials.
Precision and Grading
As trade timber suppliers, we understand that accuracy matters. Every piece of timber goes through multiple stages of machining and grading.
Our advanced planing equipment can handle beams up to 10 meters long, creating precise dimensions and smooth finishes.
Each piece of sustainable timber receives a careful visual and mechanical stress grade. We assess factors like:
- Grain pattern and direction
- Knot size and placement
- Growth ring density
- Natural characteristics that affect strength
- Surface quality and finish
Environmental Responsibility
We hold FSC, PEFC and Grown in Britain, as well as forest management expertise to reflect a deeper commitment to forest sustainability.
We track every load that comes into the sawmill, ensuring it comes from responsibly manage sources.
This careful consideration and control means that customers can be sure of their materials environmental credentials.
Specialised Processing
We don’t just process standard sizes. Custom cutting, planing, and profiling services let architects and builders create unique specifications.
Whether you’re searching for massive oak beams for barn conversions or precise joinery timber for high-end carpentry, we can deliver exactly what you need.
From Yard to Site
The final stage involves careful handling and delivery. Timber needs protection from weather and appropriate and safe support during transport.
Our team ensures materials arrive in perfect condition, ready for immediate use on site.
Finest-Quality Timber from East Brothers
Sustainably sourced timber isn’t just about environmental responsibility – it’s about creating buildings and furniture that stand the test of time.
Properly selected and processed timber develops character over time, becoming more beautiful with age while maintaining its structural integrity.
East Brothers has refined our processes over a century, combining traditional expertise with modern techniques and cutting-edge technology.
Contact us to discuss your specific requirements and discover how our timber products can support your project’s success.