Building industry has increased the using pine in building processes

The UK building industry supply chain has started to increase the import of European Redwood or pine. Before that, they preferred to use European Whitewood or spruce, but the situation on the market has changed. But what is the reason for these changes, and what are the advantages of pine?

The main source: UK construction sees more pine as timber mix evolves

What is the current situation in the UK wood market?

Everything began with the bulletin, issued by the Trade body Timber Development UK for its members. This list shows that the UK construction industry must diversify its supply chain in wood import. There are several reasons for that. First and primary – European sawmills have problems with providing enough spruce. Also, there are different factors, like recent bark beetle infestations, geopolitical factors, and changing forest management priorities that have seen some European sawmill lines temporarily closing. In fact: UK timber imports consist of 65% from coniferous timber, where the spruce was the dominant due to its qualities. However, due to changing market situations, it must review plans.

TDUK chief executive Dave Hopkins said: “Spruce has traditionally been preferred for use in construction projects due to its visual appeal and smooth finish. However, market changes are causing us to see a higher rate of pine imports. It’s important that merchants and contractors understand that pine has the same strength grading as spruce, and so while it may be slightly different visually, it can be used for C16, C24, and TR26 applications, in the same way as spruce, without concern. Merchants can be confident that each piece of structural timber will meet the strength class performance stamped on the piece – whether it is pine or spruce.”

What are the advantages of pine?

But what are pine’s advantages in comparison to other timber? First of all, it`s available. Pine is more widespread than spruce, especially in Eastern Europe. A second reason – its price. Pine is cheaper than other types of wood. At the same time, it has the same properties as spruce and a few other more expensive analogs. Also, pine is more readily able to absorb preservative treatments, allowing it to achieve Use Class 3 and Use Class 4 more easily than spruce, which requires incision for ground contact Use Class 4 applications.

TDUK chief executive Dave Hopkins also said: “We have not yet seen any major change in the overall volume of timber being imported to the UK, it is simply the mix of timber species that is changing, and by ensuring they choose the correct strength-graded timber, merchants, and builders can remain confident in their timber products.”

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