Thermally Modified Ash: Plan Delivery, Storage and Jobsite Access

Confirming Your Order and Delivery Details

Before any material leaves the warehouse, verify your order details thoroughly. This includes quantities, profiles (such as S4S E4E End Match for siding or 2x4 for decking), and specific dimensions. Confirm the delivery address, contact person, and preferred delivery window. Clear communication with your supplier about any site-specific delivery constraints is crucial to prevent delays or complications upon arrival.

Ensure that the delivery vehicle size and type are appropriate for your jobsite access. For large orders, a flatbed truck might be used, requiring ample space for maneuvering and unloading. Discuss any gate codes, restricted hours, or specific instructions for the delivery driver in advance.

Preparing the Jobsite for Material Arrival

A well-prepared jobsite ensures a smooth unloading process and protects the Thermally Modified Ash from damage. Designate a clear, level area for the delivery truck to park and unload. This area should be free of obstacles, debris, and overhead power lines.

Consider the path the material will take from the truck to its storage location. If the material needs to be moved manually, ensure there is an unobstructed route. For larger bundles, confirm if a forklift or other heavy lifting equipment will be required and if your site can accommodate it safely.

Protect the ground where the material will be stored from moisture and dirt. Using tarps or a temporary sub-base can help keep the wood clean and dry before it's moved to its final storage spot.

Proper Storage of Thermally Modified Ash

Thermally Modified Ash, while enhanced for stability, still benefits from proper storage to maintain its condition. Store the material in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Ideally, this would be indoors or under a protective cover that allows for air circulation.

Elevate the bundles off the ground using stickers (small pieces of wood) to ensure airflow and prevent moisture absorption. This also helps to prevent warping and allows for inspection. Keep the original packaging and protective wraps on the material until it is ready for installation to shield it from dust, dirt, and incidental damage.

Avoid storing Thermally Modified Ash directly on concrete or dirt surfaces, as these can transfer moisture. If outdoor storage is unavoidable for a short period, ensure the material is covered with a waterproof tarp, keeping the sides open for ventilation to prevent condensation buildup.

Jobsite Access and Staging Considerations

Efficient jobsite staging minimizes labor and reduces the risk of material damage. Plan the storage location as close as practical to the installation area, but always prioritizing protection from the elements and foot traffic. If the project involves multiple phases, consider staging materials for each phase separately.

For vertical applications like cladding or feature walls, stage the material in an area that allows for easy access by installers without obstructing other trades. For decking projects, storing material near the intended deck footprint can streamline the process.

Maintain clear pathways around the stored material for safety and accessibility. Regularly inspect the stored material for any signs of damage or moisture, addressing issues promptly to protect the quality of the wood.

Worked Example: Staging for an Ash Cladding Project

Consider a hypothetical project involving 1x6 Plus S4S E4E End Match Thermally Modified Ash for a 500 square foot exterior wall. The material arrives in bundles, each containing approximately 50 linear feet of boards, weighing around 60-70 pounds per bundle.

The jobsite is a suburban residence with a gravel driveway and a side yard accessible via a 10-foot wide gate. The contractor plans to install the cladding over two weeks. The ideal staging plan would involve:

1. **Delivery Confirmation:** Confirm with the supplier that the delivery truck is a flatbed capable of navigating the gravel driveway and that the driver has the gate code.

2. **Unloading Zone:** Clear a 20x10 foot area on the gravel driveway, ensuring no vehicles will need to pass during unloading. Prepare a stack of 2x4 scraps as stickers.

3. **Storage Location:** Designate a 10x10 foot area in the side yard, under a temporary canopy, adjacent to the wall being clad. This area is relatively level and can be covered with a ground tarp.

4. **Material Movement:** Plan for two laborers to manually carry bundles from the driveway to the side yard storage area. The path is clear of obstacles. They will stack bundles using stickers, ensuring each layer has good airflow.

5. **Protection:** Cover the stacked bundles with a breathable, waterproof tarp that extends over the sides but allows for ventilation, preventing condensation. Periodically check for any moisture accumulation or signs of pest activity.

This approach minimizes handling, protects the material from the elements, and keeps the work area organized and safe throughout the installation.

Before you order

• Have I confirmed all order details (quantity, profile, dimensions) with the supplier?
• Is the delivery address and contact information accurate for the driver?
• Are there any specific access restrictions (gate codes, delivery hours) communicated to the supplier?
• Is the jobsite clear and level for the delivery vehicle to maneuver and unload safely?
• Have I designated a protected, dry, and well-ventilated area for material storage?
• Are stickers available to elevate the material off the ground?
• Is there a plan to cover the material if stored outdoors, allowing for ventilation?
• Is the path from the delivery point to the storage area clear and safe?
• Have I considered the need for heavy lifting equipment and confirmed site suitability?
• Is the storage location practical for installers to access during the project?

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

Questions to help you decide

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