| Timber- Frequently Asked Questions What
is Laminated timber? Glued
laminated timber is manufactured from laminates of sawn timber planed
to a smooth surface, before being glued together with the grain
in the laminates running parallel. Laminated
timber vastly reduces the natural effect of fibre separation that
causes splits in timber poles giving high strength, highly engineered
timber poles. Laminated timber gives better dimensional stability
and suffers less from shrinkage and deformation than solid wood
sections. The glued joint is even stronger than the timber itself! Playdale
timber is pressure treated in accordance with EN 351-1 and EN 335-2
using a chromium and arsenic free treatment. The
way Playdale timber is pressure treated ensures that the timber
is preserved deep into the wood, hence why we can offer long guarantees
up to 20 years! During
production, all protruding edges are sanded, smoothed and finished
with a machined radius to give a smooth and splinter free finish
in accordance with BS EN 1176. We use soft timber rather than hard
timber, which reduces the risk of splintering.
Can timber play equipment be set on fire? Playdale
timber is flame and fire resistant. Infact only one in ten thousand
timber poles are replaced due to fire damage. Careful design by
Playdale engineers ensures minimum opportunity for fire damage.
What exactly does flame and fire resistant mean? Fire
resistance means that if someone attempted to burn the wood it would
most likely char on the outside as opposed to setting alight. For
example timber would only slightly char the surface if attempted
to be lit with a cigarette lighter and the damage could be sanded
back. No playground will ever be completely fire resistant however,
a substantial heat source would have to be placed under a playground
for it to set alight!
What will happen if vandals graffiti it? Graffiti
can be easily removed by lightly sanding and timber would not need
re-treating as it is protected deep into the wood. Your equipment
would also not require any repainting thus reducing your maintenance
costs for the future.
Is timber suitable in coastal areas, will it erode? Timber
is a proven product in all environments, even in the harshest of
coastal areas.
Does using timber have any implications on the environment? If
anything, timber has positive effects on the environment. It is
a natural renewable source and all Playdale timber comes from totally
sustainable, managed forests. The use of timber creates a need for
forests, which in turn is good for the environment in terms of reducing
pollution and benefiting wildlife. All Playdale timber comes from
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) accredited forests.
What are your guarantees on timber products? All
Laminated Timber Poles are covered by a 20 year guarantee and Sawn
Timber is covered by a 15 year guarantee both against structural
failure caused by rot or infestation.
How easy is timber to maintain? Timber
is an extremely low maintenance product, it is also a strong product
and our guarantees reflect this. Historically we supply an extremely
low percentage of replacement timber poles and timber does not require
any repainting during its life meaning lower maintenance costs for
you.
Do children like timber play areas? Timber
is great for children as it is warm and soft and provides year round
fun and challenge! Timber is also a natural material and offers
educational opportunity for children.
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