Canadian Lumber Standard

Canadian Lumber Standard, typically abbrievated as CLS, is a type and standard/grade of processed and sawn lumber (timber) used in many countries.[1][2][3][4][5][6]

History

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CLS was originally a product of Canada used in the construction of sturdy timber-framed houses as rated by the Canadian Lumber Standards Accreditation Board (CLSAB).[1][2] Following the end of the Cold War it was increasingly used by manufacturers in Baltic countries as a reference grade for export to the UK and other Western European countries.[1] For these reasons, Latvian CLS, Swedish CLS and other European graded timber are now available, despite not originating from Canada.[1] Most CLS now originates from Europe, including Scandinavia.[6]

Usage

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CLS is primarily used in internal construction because of is strength and durability.[6] As such, CLS is widely utilised as a general standard for timber suitable for wall studs, DIY and other construction projects, including housebuilding.[1][4][7] It is very commonly employed in conventional timber frames for roofs, lofts and attics.[8] It is typically used in the UK for timber wall studs.[9]

For use outside, CLS timber should be treated for external use.[4]

Details

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CLS timber is kiln-dried and is white wood.[9] Tree sources include Fir, Pine and Spruce.[10][6]

CLS is planed and fished with eased or rounded edges.[9][11] CLS timber is commonly graded at two strengths, C16 or C24.[9] C24 is the stronger and is typically more expensive.[10]

It is often pressure treated and may also be treated with pesticides to stop insect and fungal growth.[5]

References

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  1. ^ a b c d e Coulson, Jim (2020-12-21). A Handbook for the Sustainable Use of Timber in Construction. Hoboken (N.J.): John Wiley & Sons. p. 176. ISBN 978-1-119-70109-5.
  2. ^ a b Willis, Walter Edward (1968). Timber from Forest to Consumer. London : published for the Timber Trades Journal by Benn. p. 97. ISBN 978-0-510-48011-0.
  3. ^ Desch, Harold Ernest (1981). Timber, Its Structure, Properties, and Utilisation. Forest Grove, Or: Timber Press (OR). ISBN 978-0-917304-62-0.
  4. ^ a b c "What is CLS Timber?". Arnold Laver. 2022-10-12. Retrieved 2024-08-22.
  5. ^ a b "What is CLS Timber? CLS Features & Uses". travisperkins.co.uk. 2024-08-19. Retrieved 2024-08-22.
  6. ^ a b c d Jenkins, Steve (2023-09-03). "What is CLS timber and what DIY projects is it good for?". Homebuilding & Renovating. Retrieved 2024-08-22.
  7. ^ Brett, Peter (2012-06-20). Carpentry and Joinery Book Two: Practical Activities. Oxford University Press - Children. p. 81. ISBN 978-1-4085-1938-7.
  8. ^ Coutts, John (2008-04-15). Loft Conversions. John Wiley & Sons. p. 144. ISBN 978-0-470-75958-5.
  9. ^ a b c d Jones, Stephen; Redfern, Stephen; Fearn, Colin (2019-10-28). The City & Guilds Textbook: Site Carpentry and Architectural Joinery for the Level 2 Apprenticeship (6571), Level 2 Technical Certificate (7906) & Level 2 Diploma (6706). Hodder Education. ISBN 978-1-5104-5846-8.
  10. ^ a b "What is CLS Timber?". Harlow Bros Ltd. 2022-05-18. Retrieved 2024-08-22.
  11. ^ Brett, Peter (2004). Carpentry and Joinery. Nelson Thornes. p. 88. ISBN 978-0-7487-8502-5.