Timber with a C24 rating has a characteristic strength of 24 N/mm² or higher. This means that it is suitable for use in structural applications where a higher load-bearing capacity is required. Timber with a C24 rating is typically used in the construction of beams, joists, and other structural elements where it will be subjected to compressive loads.
The C24 grading system is used in the United Kingdom and some other European countries. In other countries, different grading systems may be used to classify the strength and quality of timber. It is important to use the appropriate grading system and to select timber with a suitable strength rating for the intended use.
For example, a 4x2 piece of timber is actually only 95 x 47mm in size when it is finished, but it is referred to as a 100x50mm because it was originally cut to that size before it was planed down to its finished size. Similarly, a 4x4 piece of timber is actually only 95 x 95mm in size when it is finished. Nominal sizes are used in the timber industry because they are easier to work with and more convenient to measure than finished sizes, which can vary slightly depending on the wood and the method of dressing.
Tanalised timber is often used in outdoor construction projects, such as fencing, decking, and garden furniture, because it is resistant to rot and decay. It is also commonly used in the construction of sheds, summerhouses, and other garden buildings. Tanalised timber is generally more expensive than untreated wood, but it is more durable and requires less maintenance over time.