Metsä Wood - Smooth Planed Whitewood Spruce Stick Timber - 2.4M - 169mm - 18mm

While spruce can be used outdoors, it is highly recommended to treat this timber with a suitable wood preservative, outdoor stain, or paint. This protection is essential to shield it from moisture, rot, and UV damage, significantly extending its lifespan in external environments.

The timber comes smooth planed (PSE), providing a good starting surface. However, a light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 180-220 grit) is always beneficial. It helps to open the wood grain, allowing finishes to absorb more evenly and resulting in a smoother, more professional final appearance.

Basic woodworking tools are generally sufficient. You will need a saw (such as a hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw) for cutting, a drill for pilot holes, a measuring tape, and appropriate personal safety equipment like safety glasses and gloves.

This 'stick timber' is primarily intended for DIY furniture and non-load-bearing applications where its dimensions and properties are suitable. For heavy structural projects that bear significant weight, it is crucial to consult an engineer or use timber specifically rated and certified for structural integrity.

To minimize splintering, always use a sharp blade designed for wood. Ensure the timber is firmly supported during the cut. You can also apply painter's tape along the cut line before cutting, which helps to hold wood fibers down.

'PSE' stands for Planed Square Edge. It signifies that the timber has been machined on all four sides to achieve a smooth finish and precise, square edges. This process makes the timber ready for immediate use in projects where accurate dimensions and a clean appearance are important.

For routine cleaning of finished furniture, simply wipe it with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and light grime. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or excessive water, which can damage the finish. For specific care, refer to the instructions for the particular finish (paint, stain, varnish) you applied.

Ensure timber is stored flat and allowed to acclimate to your project environment for several days before use. Maintain consistent temperature and humidity where stored.

Always pre-drill pilot holes. The pilot hole should be slightly smaller than the screw's core diameter. For nails, consider blunt-end nails or pre-drilling smaller guide holes.

Use sharp, clean blades specifically designed for wood to minimize tear-out. After cutting, sand the edges thoroughly with progressively finer grit sandpaper (e.g., from 80-grit to 180-grit) for a professional finish.