Why We Don’t Sell CLS Timber: The Real Difference Between C16 and C24
Here at Nottage Timber & Joinery, one of the most common questions we get asked by customers all week long is: "Do you sell CLS timber?" The short answer is: No, we don't. When customers come into the shop asking for CLS, they often aren't entirely sure what it actually is. That is completely understandable! The timber industry is full of jargon, and with so much conflicting information online and on YouTube, it can be tough to wrap your head around exactly what you need for your project.
Today, we want to clear up the confusion around CLS timber, explain the different grading systems here in the UK, and show you why that "cheaper" piece of wood might actually be shortchanging you.
What is CLS Timber?
First things first, CLS stands for Canadian Lumber Standard.
In terms of quality, CLS falls under the category of C16 timber. In the UK, we generally use two main grades of structural timber: C16 and C24.
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C16 Timber (including CLS): This is the lower grade of the two. It does the job for many basic applications, but it is of a generally lower quality.
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C24 Timber: This is a much higher-grade timber. It features fewer knots, experiences far less twisting, and is heavier and more durable overall.
The "3x2" Illusion: Why Size Matters
The biggest point of confusion—and the main reason we prefer to supply C24—comes down to the actual finished size of the wood.
Let's look at a standard 3x2 piece of timber. Even though a 3x2 in CLS and a 3x2 in C24 share the same name, they are not the same size:
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A standard 3x2 in CLS (C16) actually finishes at 63mm x 38mm.
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A standard 3x2 in C24 finishes at 70mm x 47mm.
As you can see, even though they are both sold as a "3x2," the physical dimensions are completely different.
"But I can get CLS cheaper down the road!"
We hear this a lot. Customers will point out that they can get a 3x2 piece of CLS timber somewhere else for a cheaper price.
We always have to explain: Yes, it is cheaper, but that’s because you are literally getting less timber and a lower-quality product. When you buy C24 timber, you are paying for a superior, more durable product that gives you more wood for your structural needs and won't warp or twist as easily as the C16 alternatives.
At Nottage Timber & Joinery, we believe in providing materials that you can rely on to build sturdy, long-lasting projects. Hopefully, this clears up the CLS debate and helps you make the best choice for your next build!
Have any more questions about our timber selection? Feel free to drop by the shop or get in touch with us today!