Product Information
Timber Care & Maintenance
Simple storage, handling and maintenance guidance to help protect RSB timber products in South African conditions.
WHY TIMBER CARE MATTERS
Protect the Beauty. Preserve the Performance.
Timber is a natural material that responds to its surrounding environment. Correct storage, handling, treatment and ongoing maintenance can help minimise movement, warping, cracking and weathering while keeping your timber products looking their best for years to come.
Reduce Warping
Correct storage and handling help minimise movement, distortion and cupping.
Extend Product Life
Regular treatment and maintenance help protect timber against everyday exposure and wear.
Maintain Finish Quality
Protecting the timber surface helps preserve its appearance and finish over time.
Support Long-Term Performance
Consistent care helps timber continue performing as intended throughout its service life.
ESSENTIAL STORAGE & HANDLING
Store in Cool, Dry Area
Keep timber in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area protected from the elements.
Keep Timber Off the Ground
Raise timber on suitable dunnage or supports rather than storing it directly on the floor or ground.
Protect from the Elements
Avoid prolonged exposure to damp conditions, rain and direct sunlight before installation and finishing.
Turn Stock Regularly
Shelving and similar timber products should be turned periodically to help minimise cupping or bowing.
Treat All Faces
Where treatment is required, coat all exposed faces and edges as soon as practical.
PRACTICAL CARE GUIDANCE
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Before Installation
- Store timber flat wherever possible.
- Keep products clean, dry and properly supported.
- Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.
- Do not expose untreated timber to rain or moisture.
- Allow timber to remain protected until it is ready for installation.
During Storage
- Never store timber directly on the ground.
- Raise products on suitable dunnage.
- Keep mouldings secured in their bundles where practical.
- Store doors flat on a level surface.
- Turn shelving stock periodically to help reduce cupping.
- Keep the storage area dry and well ventilated.
After Installation
- Apply an appropriate timber treatment or finish.
- Follow the coating manufacturer's instructions
- Treat all relevant surfaces, edges and ends.
- Inspect timber periodically for signs of wear or weathering.
- Reapply protective coatings when required.
Doors & Frames
- Store doors flat on a level surface.
- Protect untreated doors from moisture and direct sunlight.
- Treat the top, bottom, faces and edges where required.
- Inspect exterior-facing timber regularly.
Mouldings, Shelving & P.A.R.
- Keep mouldings bundled until required.
- Store flat, dry and properly supported.
- Turn shelving periodically to help reduce cupping.
- Finish according to the intended application.
Breadboards & Worktops
- Keep timber appropriately sealed.
- Clean spills promptly and avoid prolonged moisture.
- Never place hot cookware directly onto timber.
- Maintain with a suitable protective finish.
IMPORTANT TIMBER INFORMATION
Understanding Natural Timber
Timber is a natural material and variations in colour, grain, texture and natural characteristics are part of its appearance. Timber may also respond to changes in moisture, temperature and environmental conditions.
Correct storage, handling, installation and finishing are therefore important to the long-term appearance and performance of timber products.
NATURAL VARIATION
Colour & Grain
Natural differences in colour, grain and texture are characteristic of genuine timber and may vary from one piece to another.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Moisture & Movement
Changes in moisture and environmental conditions can result in natural timber movement, including expansion, contraction, bowing or cupping.
PROPER PROTECTION
Treatment & Finishing
Timber intended for exposed applications should be appropriately treated and maintained according to the product, application and coating manufacturer’s recommendations.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Got Questions? We've Got Answers
How should timber be stored before installation?
Timber should be stored in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area, protected from damp conditions, rain and direct sunlight. Products should be raised off the ground and properly supported to help minimise movement or distortion.
Should timber be treated before installation?
Where treatment is required, timber should be properly protected before installation. Depending on the application, this may include treating faces, edges and ends. Always follow the recommendations of the chosen coating or treatment manufacturer.
Can I store timber doors standing upright?
Doors should preferably be stored flat on a clean, level and properly supported surface. Avoid leaving doors standing on one end or leaning against a wall for extended periods, as this may contribute to distortion.
How often should exterior timber be maintained?
There is no single maintenance interval suitable for every application. Exposure to sunlight, rain, moisture and general weather conditions all affect how frequently timber requires attention. Inspect exterior timber regularly and recoat it when the existing protective finish begins showing signs of deterioration.
Will timber colour and grain vary?
Yes. Timber is a natural material, so differences in colour, grain, texture and other natural characteristics should be expected. These variations are part of the character of genuine timber.
What should I use on breadboards and timber worktops?
Use a product appropriate for the timber and its intended application. Breadboards may require a suitable food-safe treatment, while worktops should be properly sealed and maintained according to the coating manufacturer’s recommendations.
Storage, Installation & Product Care
Correct storage, handling, installation, treatment and maintenance are important to the performance of timber products.
Customers and installers should ensure that products are stored appropriately before installation and that suitable finishing and maintenance products are applied according to the intended application and manufacturer’s recommendations.
Claims relating to product condition may be affected where products have been incorrectly stored, installed, treated or maintained.
OUR EXPERIENCE
40+ Years of Industry Experience
Supplying quality timber products and building solutions since 1980. Trusted by homeowners, builders, contractors and trade partners across South Africa.
Established 1980
Over four decades of timber manufacturing experience.
Trusted South African Manufacturer
Quality timber products manufactured and supplied for local conditions.
Nationwide Supply & Support
Reliable product supply and knowledgeable support across South Africa.
Need Advice on Caring for Your Timber?
Speak to our team for product guidance, finishing advice and help selecting the right timber solution for your application.