What you build from.
WHAT MATERIALS ARE USED
Solid timber, hardwood and softwood Plywood Medium density fibreboard and particleboard Veneer and laminate Edge banding
Hardware: hinges, runners, handles, fasteners
Adhesives and finishes
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT TIMBER
Species and its characteristics Moisture content Whether it is seasoned Grade and defects Whether it can be obtained again
WHY MOISTURE CONTENT MATTERS MOST
Timber that is not dry moves after the piece is made, producing splits, warping and failed joints.
WHAT MOVEMENT PRODUCES
Doors that stop closing Panels that split Joints that open Tops that cup
WHAT TO DO
Establish moisture content before using timber.
HOW
A moisture meter.
WHAT TO ALLOW
Time for timber to acclimatise to where the piece will live.
WHY
Timber continues moving until it reaches equilibrium.
WHAT TO ALLOW FOR IN DESIGN
Movement across the grain.
WHY
Solid timber restrained across its width splits.
WHAT SHEET MATERIALS PROVIDE
Stability and predictable dimensions.
WHAT THEY REQUIRE
Edge treatment, and appropriate fixings.
WHY EDGES MATTER
Exposed board edges absorb moisture and swell irreversibly.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH ABOUT SUPPLIERS
Consistency of grade and thickness Whether sheets are genuinely the stated thickness Storage conditions before you receive it
WHAT TO CHECK ON DELIVERY
Thickness, flatness, damage and moisture.
WHAT TO RECORD
Supplier, batch and price.
