PLYWOOD JOB SITE STORAGE & HANDLING
Structural plywood & ply bracing requires care in storage & handling. The packaging around timber products is designed to protect it during transport only.
- Your job site storage area should be protected from sun, rain & wind that cause any rapid changes in temperature & humidity. To avoid staining, fading and surface checking, the sheets should not be exposed to the weather while awaiting installation.
- Support for the sheets should be provided at both ends & at 600mm intermediate centres to avoid distortion.
- The stack should be kept dry and clear of ground contact, & be placed so that it will not be exposed to mechanical damage.
- The sheets should be stacked on their flat, NOT on edge.
PARTICLEBOARD JOB SITE STORAGE & HANDLING
The packaging around Timber products is designed to protect it during transport only.
- Particleboard boards need to be stored in an area that is protected from sun, rain and wind so that rapid changes in temperature and humidity are avoided. This will also help to avoid any surface staining or fading.
- If boards need to be stored outside they should be well protected with a tarpaulin or equivalent covering and need to be kept well clear of the ground & well ventilated.
- For use in dry warm areas the moisture content should be kept as low as possible to avoid shrinkage after installation.
- Boards stored on site, ie for a residential build, can better adjust to the moisture content of the surrounding environment. Each sheet should be stacked to allow free circulation of air.
- Excessive wetting should be avoided when cleaning. Boards can be lightly sanded to remove stains.
PLYWOOD & PARTICLEBOARD MAINTENANCE
Unless your design is being made specifically for a short life span, all structures, especially any exposed to external conditions, require on-going maintenance.
The purpose of any maintenance regime is to ensure the structural integrity, safety, original look & condition of your construction material, so that it can continue to effectively perform its intended function.
Maintenance must therefore be considered at your design stage, as you will find that the level & frequency of maintenance is a function of the original design & each materials specifications.
It is at this point where original costs must be weighed up against future costs.
Ongoing maintenance & inspections will help to make sure rot/infestation does not occur in structural above-ground applications.
You should periodically check your structure for any physical changes. Any possible leaks or exposure, where moisture could infiltrate & cause decay, & any signs of damaged should always be attended to without delay.