UK construction sees increased pine supplies as timber mix evolves

The UK construction supply chain is seeing an increase in imports of European Redwood (Pine) as European sawmills face significant disruptions that are impacting the availability of European Whitewood (Spruce).

Timber Development UK has issued a Trade Note on the subject, reassuring members that this does not mean there is a shortage of timber available to the UK, but simply that the mix of species being imported is changing.

The UK construction industry heavily relies on coniferous timber, with about 65% of our requirements being met through imports.

European Whitewood (Spruce) and European Redwood (Pine) are the dominant species, but recent Bark Beetle infestations, geopolitical factors and changing forest management priorities have seen some European sawmill lines temporarily closing.

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 proportion of Pine imports. It’s important that merchants and contractors understand that Pine has exactly 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 they are Pine or Spruce.”

In fact, for garden and exterior products such as decking and cladding, 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.

Dave continued: “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.”