3x2 CLS Timber

What Is 3x2 CLS Timber?

3x2 CLS (Canadian Lumber Standard) structural timber is a dependable and versatile softwood material widely used in structural projects such as studwork framing and internal partition walls. 

Strength graded to C16, this type of timber is sufficient for use in most residential and light commercial building projects including roofing, flooring, and wall framing. The “C” in C16 stands for “conifer,” while the “16” refers to the timber’s strength. C16 timber has a minimum strength of 16 N/mm², which means it can handle a certain amount of weight or load. 

Manufactured from kiln-dried softwoods such as pine, spruce, or fir, 3x2 CLS timber undergoes precision planing to achieve a smooth finish with eased corners, ensuring safe handling and a refined appearance. 

Lightweight and simple to handle, C16 3x2 CLS timber can be readily cut, nailed, or screwed, making it an excellent choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. This practicality is complemented by its cost-effectiveness, offering solid performance at a budget-friendly price point. While it may not match the strength of higher-grade timber, C16 remains a dependable option for projects that do not require extreme load-bearing capacity.

Where is 3x2 CLS Timber Used? 

CLS 3x2 timber wood is an ideal choice for interior construction projects. While its durability supports tasks like framing and carcassing, it is not designed to bear the load of a building's structural framework. Instead, its primary use lies in creating practical and sturdy partitions and non-structural interior frameworks.

Whether you have your heart set on creating an en-suite in your bedroom or you simply want to partition the kitchen to create a utility room – 3x2 CLS helps to actualise your framing visions.

3x2 CLS Studwork Timber Benefits 

• Ideal for interior framing and carcassing applications
• Rounded edges and planed on all four sides - easy to handle
• Kiln dried for extra stability
• Slow grown to ensure stable composition 
  
  

Understanding the C16 Grading of 3x2 CLS

C16 grading is a classification standard for structural timber used in the UK and Europe. Timber is graded based on its strength, stiffness, and density, ensuring it is suitable for structural applications. Grading can be either visual or machine-based, with C16 being one of the most common grades available.

C16 timber meets specific performance criteria:

• Strength: Sufficient for use in most residential and light commercial building projects.
• Knots and Defects: C16 allows for more visible knots and imperfections compared to higher grades like C24, but these do not compromise its structural integrity when used appropriately.
• Applications: C16 is suitable for indoor and sheltered outdoor use, making it a versatile choice for general construction purposes. It should be noted that this variant is not suitable for direct ground contact due to its natural tendency to expand and contract. As a natural product, timber can be affected by changes in temperature, room conditions and humidity.