Tanalised Treated Timber 47 x 150mm 6.0m – 6×2 Timber
Tanalised Treated Timber 47 x 150mm 6.0m is a long and versatile pressure-treated softwood section suitable for building, landscaping and outdoor construction projects. It is commonly referred to as 6×2 timber, based on its traditional approximate imperial dimensions of 6 inches by 2 inches.
Combining a substantial 150mm depth with an extended 6.0-metre length, this timber is useful for larger frameworks and outdoor structures. Where appropriate for the design, the longer format can reduce the number of joints required or provide enough timber to cut several shorter components.
The timber has undergone a controlled pressure-treatment process to provide additional protection against fungal decay and wood-destroying insects. This makes it more durable than untreated softwood when correctly specified, installed and maintained in suitable outdoor conditions.
Product dimensions
The nominal product dimensions are:
- Metric section: 47mm x 150mm
- Common imperial name: 6×2 timber
- Length: 6.0m
- Material: Treated softwood
- Treatment: Pressure treated or tanalised
- Suitable for: Building, landscaping and outdoor projects
The term 6×2 is a familiar trade description rather than an exact imperial conversion. Use the stated metric dimensions when planning, measuring and completing the project.
What is tanalised timber?
Tanalised timber is softwood that has been treated with wood preservative using a controlled vacuum and pressure process. This allows the preservative to penetrate deeper into the wood than a basic surface-applied coating.
The treatment helps protect the timber against fungal decay and attacks from wood-destroying insects. It can improve the timber’s durability and extend its service life when the product is used in an appropriate environment.
Pressure treatment does not make the timber entirely waterproof or maintenance-free. The wood can still absorb and release moisture, which may lead to movement, weathering, surface checking and gradual changes in colour.
Any internal wood exposed by cutting, drilling or notching should be coated with a compatible end-grain preservative. This helps restore protection where the original treated surface has been broken.
Common uses for 6×2 treated timber
The 47 x 150mm section is widely used for outdoor and general construction projects. The long 6.0m format offers additional flexibility for larger structures.
Depending on its strength grade and the project specification, possible applications include:
- Outdoor timber frameworks
- Garden buildings and structures
- Landscaping projects
- Timber supports and bearers
- Agricultural and equestrian construction
- Raised garden features
- External carpentry and joinery
- General building projects
- Bespoke outdoor structures
- Repairs to existing timber frameworks
- Load-bearing members where correctly graded
- Long timber runs requiring fewer joints
Where structural performance is required, confirm that the timber has the correct strength classification for the proposed application. Tanalised timber should not automatically be assumed to be C16 or C24 unless it is specifically marked and sold with that grade.
The required span, loading, support spacing, connections and fixing arrangement should be confirmed by a suitably competent person.
Benefits of the 6.0m length
The extended 6.0-metre length can provide longer continuous runs across suitable structures. Reducing joints may simplify some installations and create a cleaner finished framework.
The length can also be divided into several smaller components. Planning cuts before starting work can help minimise offcuts and make efficient use of the available material.
Consider site access before ordering. A 6.0m length requires enough space for delivery, unloading, storage and manoeuvring into its final position.
Long lengths can be heavy and awkward to handle, particularly while the timber retains moisture from the treatment process. Use appropriate lifting assistance and safe manual-handling procedures.
Natural characteristics of treated timber
Timber is a natural material, so differences in grain pattern, colour, knots and texture are normal. Every piece will have its own appearance.
Knots, resin pockets, small splits and surface checking may be visible. These characteristics are not automatically product defects, although their suitability will depend on the intended use and any applicable grading requirements.
Pressure treatment increases the timber’s moisture content. As the wood dries, some shrinkage, twisting, bowing or cupping may occur. Longer lengths may display more noticeable movement and should be stored with sufficient support.
Newly treated timber may have a green or brown shade depending on the treatment system used. This colour will normally fade and weather gradually following outdoor installation.
Important sizing information
Please note: Timber dimensions are nominal and may vary slightly due to machining, pressure treatment, moisture content and the natural movement of the wood.
The common name 6×2 is an approximate imperial description rather than a guarantee of exact finished dimensions. If precise measurements are critical, check the timber before installation or contact us to confirm the current stock specification.
Allow the timber to acclimatise appropriately before completing work that requires precise joints or close-fitting components.
Cutting and installation
Use suitable woodworking tools with sharp blades when cutting or drilling this timber. Wear protective gloves, eye protection and appropriate respiratory protection when handling, sawing or sanding treated wood.
Complete cutting work in a well-ventilated location and avoid breathing timber dust. Sawdust and offcuts should be collected and disposed of responsibly. Pressure-treated timber must not be burned on domestic fires, in wood-burning appliances or on garden bonfires.
Apply a suitable end-grain preservative to all cut ends, drilled holes and notches. Use corrosion-resistant fixings compatible with treated timber, particularly in external or moisture-prone environments.
For structural installations, supports, fixings and connections should be designed for the expected loads and fitted in accordance with the approved specification.
Storage and maintenance
Store the timber flat, raised above the ground and supported at regular intervals. Correct support is particularly important for 6.0m lengths because unsuitable storage can increase bowing and twisting.
Protect the wood from prolonged saturation while allowing sufficient airflow around each length. Do not leave the timber resting directly on wet ground.
For visible outdoor applications, a compatible oil, stain or protective coating may be applied once the timber has dried sufficiently. Follow the coating manufacturer’s preparation and moisture-content instructions.
Inspect external timber periodically, paying particular attention to joints, cut ends, fixings and areas where water may collect.
Key benefits
- Versatile 47 x 150mm timber section
- Commonly known as 6×2 timber
- Extended 6.0m length
- May reduce joints in larger structures
- Pressure treated against decay and insects
- Suitable for outdoor frameworks and landscaping
- Useful for garden and agricultural projects
- Can be cut to meet different requirements
- More durable than untreated softwood
- Suitable for professional and DIY construction
Tanalised Treated Timber 47 x 150mm 6.0m – 6×2 Timber combines a versatile section with an extended length for larger outdoor, landscaping and general building projects. Always confirm its dimensions, treatment level and strength grade against the requirements of the intended application before installation.
