Oak Curves Beams
We use oak beams with a natural curve to make curved oak components, for traditional oak framing. Curved oak sections are stronger than curved pieces cut from straight trunks. Curves are usually supplied green, and can be cut bespoke.
Species
Quercus robur
Moisture content
Wet (green) / semi-seasoned
Surface finish
Sawn
Shaped sections available
Sawn shaped curves, through and through curved slabs
Oak Curves Beams
Oak Curves Beams
Oak Curves Beams
Oak Curves Beams
Oak Curves Beams
About Natural Oak Curves
Natural oak curves have been used for centuries to build traditional oak framed houses and oak framed boats. Artisans of old knew that curved sections of oak with the grain running along the shape were a lot stronger than curved pieces cut from straight trunks.
Although on the whole we like oak trees to grow nice and straight for high quality beams and joinery, we do also collect oak trees that have grown with a bit of a curve in their trunks to produce these traditional shaped sections.
Vastern Timber specialises in the production of specific curved oak components for traditional oak framing including shaped wind and wall bracing, through & through slabs for cruck blades, sling braces, queen posts and arch bracing, all of which are selected from curved oak logs.
Oak curves are cut as standard with a deflection to suit the natural shape of the tree, although bespoke patterns can be cut against a template.
Oak curves for bracing are usually supplied green (wet) although they can in some cases be supplied partially air-dried.
Call us to discuss your project
Technical Specification
Species
Quercus robur
Moisture content
Wet (green) / semi-seasoned
Surface finish
Sawn shaped curves
Shaped sections available
Sawn shaped curves
Through and through curved slabs
Durability
BS EN 350 Durable (Heartwood only)
Weight
Approximately 1000KG / M3 when wet and 700KG / M3 when dry.
Shrinkage
Less than 0.5% along the length and between 5% and 7% across the section
Modulus of elasticity
Green oak E = 8,000 N/mm2
Dry oak E = 10,000 N/mm2
Working properties
Green oak is generally easy to work but becomes increasingly difficult as it dries.
Chemical properties
Oak contains tannic acid which will corrode ferrous metals. When the two come into contact, a blue sludge is formed which will stain the oak and anything else it comes into contact with.
Insect attack
The ambrosia beetle can attack the wet timber (30% moisture +). However, the beetle will die as soon as the wood dries to less than 30%. Re-infestation will not occur. Other dry wood will not be affected. Sapwood is commonly attacked by the powder post beetle (Lyctus spp). However, sap is normally excluded from oak beams.
Fixings
All fixings used in conjunction with green oak should be stainless steel.
Fire
Surface spread of flame class 3 (BS 476-7)
Further information
Trada Technology. www.trada.co.uk
Vastern Timber is not able to offer structural engineering services or advice on section sizes required for particular applications
Disclaimer
While the utmost care has been taken to provide accurate information, Vastern Timber shall not be held responsible for any consequences arising from any errors or omissions on this website nor for any damages resulting from the use of the information.
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