Buying sustainable hardwood

How can I be sure that the hardwood I buy is sustainable? Is there a way to check when I buy it? Or are there companies you can recommend to buy from?

Asked by Mo on 10th Dec 2022
Expert Trade Answers
"First of all do your research on wood that go with what you are looking to do, and then make sure it’s treated wood last longer and what ever you are using it for make sure it doesn’t get damp or mauled"
Answered on 22nd Jan 2024 - Member since Jan 2024 - report
"If the timber is stamped with FSC it’s from a sustainable source, FSC registered companies belong to a chain of custody and the timber can be traced back to the exact forest and tree it was cut from"
Answered on 24th Jan 2024 - Member since Jan 2024 - report
"Should be on the company website or have a sticker on it"
Answered on 20th Dec 2023 - Member since Aug 2022 - report
"Generally speaking, you can't be sure. It's just the nature of wood and wood movement is going to be more or less dependable on few factors such as:

* type of hardwood
* how large the piece is
* where is it going to seat (how much moisture there is)
* the cut type (off the tree itself)
* the joinery itself

Now, there are also some processes by which the wood could be dried and minimize the effect but these more advanced processes are not usually avaialble to DIY-ers.

Making sure the wood is seasoned is a good start; if it's kild dried, even better."
Answered on 15th Jan 2024 - Member since Jan 2024 - report
"Look for certifications like FSC or PEFC. Check that the supplier complies with UK Timber Regulations (UKTR). Ask for documentation proving the chain of custody. Find out where the timber was harvested. Confirm it’s from a sustainably managed forest. Use tools like the FSC Certificate Search to verify claims. Avoid high-risk or endangered species unless sourcing is verified. Consult the CITES database if unsure. Consider reclaimed or locally sourced wood (see Oxford Wood Recycling). Visit your supplier and build trust. I use Chilworth Timber Company for most of my hardwood as they are nearby, and I know the owners well now. All depends where you are based and how much you are looking to buy, how regularly, and whether for business or personal use. Great job keeping sustainability top of mind! Good luck!"
Answered on 4th Dec 2024 - Member since Dec 2024 - report
"most timber come from tree farms, especially from the uk"
Answered on 28th Apr 2024 - Member since Oct 2023 - report
"Purchasing any wood that is FSC approved is a responsible way to go. FSC stands for Forest Stewardship Council and it manages the world's forests via timber certification. Look for the FSC tree logo label on each piece of timber you buy. Making sure every tree used is replanted is an important part of their mandate."
Answered on 14th Dec 2022 - Member since Nov 2022 - report
"Check for splits ,the way the grain runs its fully cured, depending what its being used for ."
Answered on 10th Dec 2022 - Member since Jun 2020 - report
"Try howarth timber they should be able to help you with this"
Answered on 10th Dec 2022 - Member since Mar 2020 - report
Find Tradespeople, compare up to 3 quotes!
It's FREE and there are no obligations
Ask a Trade
Got a question that only a tradesperson can answer? We have thousands of trades ready to answer any question you may have.
Ask your question
Ask a Trade

Are you looking for advice on a DIY project or have a question for our tradespeople?

We'll email your question to tradespeople who are skilled in your chosen category.

Your question will be made public - please do not include any personal details.

{{ first(ask.errors)[0] }}

By continuing you agree to the Community Guidelines.

Report Content

{{ first(reportForm.errors) }}

Thank you

Your report has been created and will be investigated shortly.

Ready to get a price for your home improvement project?
Get started

Over 1 million homeowners and over 50,000 tradespeople
use MyJobQuote nationwide each year