Independent, family-owned builders merchant Beesley & Fildes has invested £300,000 in a new timber treatment plant at its Chester branch.

Replacing an existing facility, the fully-automated plant can operate all year round and for the first time, enables the merchant to treat timbers in green and brown from its Chester site. With no need for manual equipment, up to 38 cubic metres of timber can be treated per day, more than tripling output.

Thanks to new technology, drying time, which previously could take between 24 and 48 hours, has been reduced so treated timber can be collected on the same day. Treatment strengths can also be varied for above and below ground timbers.

Tony Carroll, Beesley & Fildes’ branch manager, Chester, said: “Timber is a core part of our offer, so this investment will ensure we provide the best possible service to our customers. As a dual colour plant, we can better service customers across Cheshire, Merseyside and Manchester as each region tends to have different design requirements. With no drying time needed, we can also deliver treated products much faster.”

He added: “Chester was the natural choice for the new plant as it will also benefit other timber merchants across Cheshire and North Wales. Most have to travel out of the region as far as Manchester to treat timbers. Now, they have an option closer to home helping them to save time, money and also carbon emissions.”

Timber for decking, fencing and posts can all be treated at the plant which uses pressure to reach the centre of the wood to preserve it. A blend of copper and organic co-biocides is used in the process to ensure long-lasting protection against wood decay and pests.

As well as the treatment area, the new plant comprises a secure storage facility and is fully bunded throughout to maximise health and safety.

Source: buildersmerchantsjournal.net