Tanalised Treated Timber 47 x 200mm 6.0m – 8×2 Timber
Tanalised Treated Timber 47 x 200mm 6.0m is a substantial length of pressure-treated softwood for outdoor construction, landscaping and general building projects. It is commonly referred to as 8×2 timber, based on its traditional approximate imperial dimensions of 8 inches by 2 inches.
The combination of a deep 200mm section and extended 6.0-metre length makes this timber useful for large frameworks and other projects requiring a substantial, continuous length. Where the design permits, the longer format can help reduce joints or provide enough material 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 external environments.
Product dimensions
The nominal product dimensions are:
- Metric section: 47mm x 200mm
- Common imperial name: 8×2 timber
- Length: 6.0m
- Material: Treated softwood
- Treatment: Pressure treated or tanalised
- Suitable for: Building, landscaping and outdoor projects
The common name 8×2 is a traditional trade description rather than an exact imperial conversion. Always use the stated metric dimensions when measuring and planning your project.
What is tanalised timber?
Tanalised timber is wood that has been treated with preservative using a controlled vacuum and pressure process. This treatment encourages the preservative to penetrate deeper into the timber than an ordinary surface-applied coating.
The process helps protect the wood against fungal decay and attacks from wood-destroying insects. It improves the timber’s durability and makes it suitable for many outdoor, exposed and moisture-prone applications.
Pressure treatment does not make timber waterproof or completely maintenance-free. The wood may still absorb and release moisture, resulting in natural movement, shrinkage, weathering and surface checking.
When the timber is cut, drilled or notched, untreated internal areas may be exposed. Apply a suitable end-grain wood preservative to these areas to help maintain protection after installation.
Common uses for 8×2 treated timber
The substantial 47 x 200mm section makes this product useful for a variety of larger outdoor and general construction projects.
Depending on its strength grade and the project specification, possible applications include:
- Large outdoor timber frameworks
- Garden buildings and substantial structures
- Landscaping and garden construction
- Timber supports and bearers
- Agricultural and equestrian projects
- Raised landscape features
- External carpentry and joinery
- General construction work
- Bespoke garden features
- Repairs to existing timber structures
- Load-bearing members where correctly graded
- Long timber runs requiring fewer joints
Where the timber will carry structural loads, confirm that it has the appropriate strength grade. Tanalised timber should not automatically be assumed to be C16 or C24 unless it is specifically marked and sold with that classification.
A suitably competent person should confirm the required spans, loading, support spacing, fixings and connections for structural applications.
Advantages of a 6.0m length
The extended 6.0-metre format provides additional flexibility for large projects. Where suitable, it may allow longer continuous runs and reduce the number of joints required in a framework.
The timber can also be cut into several shorter sections. Preparing a cutting plan before starting work can help reduce waste and make efficient use of the full length.
Consider access and handling requirements before ordering. Sufficient space is needed to unload, carry, store, turn and position a 6.0m length safely.
The combination of its length, substantial cross-section and moisture content may make the timber heavy and awkward to handle. Use appropriate lifting assistance and safe manual-handling procedures.
Natural timber characteristics
Timber is a natural material, meaning every length will vary in grain, colour, knots and surface texture. These variations contribute to the appearance and character of the product.
Knots, resin pockets, minor splits and surface checking may be present and are not necessarily manufacturing faults. Their acceptability will depend on the application and any relevant grading requirements.
Pressure treatment introduces moisture into the wood. As the timber dries, some shrinkage, twisting, cupping or bowing may occur. Longer lengths may show more noticeable movement and should be stored with adequate support.
Newly treated timber may initially have a green or brown shade depending on the preservative system used. Its colour will generally soften 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 8×2 is an approximate imperial description and should not be treated as an exact finished measurement. Where accurate dimensions are critical, measure the timber before installation or contact us to confirm the current stock specification.
Allow the timber to acclimatise appropriately before completing work involving precise joints or close-fitting components.
Cutting and installation
Use suitable woodworking equipment fitted with sharp blades when cutting or drilling the timber. Wear gloves, eye protection and appropriate respiratory protection while handling, sawing or sanding treated wood.
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 compatible end-grain preservative to all cut ends, drilled holes and notches. Use corrosion-resistant fixings suitable for treated timber, particularly where the installation will be exposed to moisture.
For structural work, all supports, fixings and connections should follow the approved drawings and specification.
Storage and maintenance
Store the timber flat, raised above the ground and supported at regular intervals. Adequate support is particularly important for 6.0m lengths, as incorrect storage may increase bowing or twisting.
A compatible wood oil, stain or protective coating may be applied to visible external timber once it has dried sufficiently. Follow the coating manufacturer’s instructions regarding moisture content and preparation.
Inspect outdoor timber periodically, paying particular attention to joints, cut ends, fixing points and areas where water may collect.
Key benefits
- Substantial 47 x 200mm timber section
- Commonly known as 8×2 timber
- Extended 6.0m length
- Can reduce joints across longer structures
- Pressure treated against decay and insects
- Suitable for substantial outdoor frameworks
- Useful for landscaping and garden construction
- Can be cut to meet project requirements
- More durable than untreated softwood
- Suitable for professional and DIY projects
Tanalised Treated Timber 47 x 200mm 6.0m – 8×2 Timber provides a substantial section and extended length for larger outdoor, landscaping and general construction projects. Always confirm its exact dimensions, treatment level and strength grade against the requirements of the intended application before installation.
