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With winter finally here, it’s that time of year when all we want to do is stay indoors and get cosy – but if you’ve still got some work to do outside, you might have to brave the cold weather. Though winter can be challenging when you’re working outdoors with timber, it can be done, and we’re here to help.
At Savoy Timber, we’ve been helping people transform their gardens all year round for the last 70 years. From timber decking to fences and sheds, we’re proud to provide durable, high-grade timber products guaranteed to enhance any outdoor space. With that in mind, let’s explore some safety tips you’ll need to consider when working with timber this winter.
Whether you’re building a log store to protect your firewood or are adding a pub shed and deck to enjoy in Spring, it’s important to consider how the cold weather will affect your project. Winter can offer suitable conditions for building, but if the ground is frozen or muddy, it can be tricky to work with, and may affect the safety, longevity and stability of your build.
We recommend choosing a period of days where the weather is dry and mild, waiting for the ground to thaw before you get started. This is especially important if you’re using concrete to install fences or decking posts. A too-low temperature can slow down the curing process, weaken the set concrete and cause the foundations to shift and become unsteady. If you’re installing something like a timber fence, we also recommend adding gravel first to the bottom of the hole for drainage, making sure you bury the posts below the frost line so they aren’t shifted by frost heave.
When working in winter, it’s also important to properly store timber between projects. Keep your supplies in a shed or beneath a waterproof, breathable tarp, using something like concrete blocks to elevate them off the ground. This encourages air circulation and protects your wood from moisture, making sure it stays safe and strong.
When the temperature drops and the days get wetter, timber is particularly vulnerable to problems like warping, rot and cracking. Choosing pressure-treated timber is a great way to make sure your projects can withstand the weather. We also recommend adding an extra layer of protection by applying stain, sealant or paint. Just remember: only apply sealant to dry wood to make sure you aren’t trapping in moisture. Also, keep in mind that cold temperatures can stop treatments like sealants from properly curing, leading to an uneven, ineffective finish. Always check how long your sealant will take to dry in the current temperatures, and find a few dry days to get the job done. This will help to keep your timber sturdy and protected in the harsh winter weather.
When transforming your garden in winter, you need to fully consider your safety. Make sure you’re dressed for the cold, wearing gloves if necessary to keep your hands warm and dexterous, preventing accidents and injuries. If you’ve installed a new timber deck, take the time to regularly clear away snow, leaves and ice. As well as helping to prevent problems like rot and mould, this also means you’re less likely to slip and fall. Our timber decking features handy anti-slip grooves, designed to keep you safe in the tricky winter weather. Best of all, you can use our handy timber decking kit calculator to make sure you order the exact materials you need to finish your winter project without wasting money or timber.
That’s the essentials covered! If you’re looking for timber to complete your next garden project, we’re here to help. With great prices and speedy national delivery, there’s no one better placed to help you upgrade your outdoor space. Our friendly team is on hand to provide expert guidance 7 days a week, so you can find exactly what you need to transform your home. Interested? Don’t hesitate to give us a call on 0345 0268 799 or visit one of our stores today!
