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July 8, 2013

Everything You Need To Know About Our Products & Services Here At Booker Timber

CNC Cutting,MDF,Sheets — Tags: , , — Booker Timber @ 9:02 am

As one of the UK’s leading timber merchants, we here at Booker Timber know how hard it can be for individuals to find good quality timber AND bespoke sheet cutting of the highest order. If you yourself are looking to source these vital ingredients for your own projects then you will be pleased to learn that you have now found a supplier that is able to provide you with essential products and services of the very highest order.

Indeed, we here at Booker Timber don’t just have unrivalled experience regarding all aspects of medium density fibreboard (MDF) cutting and sheet cutting; we also have high-end technology machinery which enables us to carry out computer numerically controlled (CNC) cutting and routing for all manner of small and large orders.

Cutting & Routing

CNC cutting and routing are two of our most versatile services. In essence, these supremely accurate cutting options rely on automated engineering tools and cutting equipment which are fed with specific pieces of information. Because these cutting services operate at such phenomenal speeds, we are able to deliver high quality results while all the while maintaining very competitive prices. Moreover, the fact that we have some of the biggest beam saws in the UK means that we can work with sheets up to six metres long and nearly four metres wide! Plywood, plastic and MDF are some of the most common materials that we make use of in this way.

A Little More About MDF

MDF is an engineered wood which is made by breaking down elements of hardwood and softwood into fibres and then mixing it with wax and resin to bind it together. MDF sheets and panels are created by applying high temperatures and pressure. Because it is denser than plywood and contains no knots or similar impurities, MDF is a very widely used material in the building industry. Moreover, the internal structure of cut-to-size MDF allows it to withstand heat and moisture without distorting (unlike hardboard). As well as being highly valued in the building trade, the overall versatility and functionality of MDF makes it very much the material of choice for engineers who need to make cheap prototypes of inventions.

You will not be surprised to hear that we here at Booker Timber have the equipment, expertise and experience required to cut MDF with extreme accuracy. To be sure, our computer equipment is able to work with sheets up to 90mm thick.

A Word on the Environment

We are of course living in an age where we all have to consider the effects of our actions on the environment at large. As a merchant we are completely aware of the responsible of sourcing raw materials and that is why we have endeavoured to obtain Chain of Custody certification, as this shows customers that they can use our services without fear of contributing to the destruction of the planet’s natural forests.


July 2, 2013

Aspects To Consider When Selecting Suitable Timber

MDF,Sheets — Tags: , — Booker Timber @ 9:14 am

Regardless of whether you’re after wood for industrial, trade or personal needs it is vital to remember that selecting suitable timber is of the utmost importance. Indeed, it is fair to say that any building project or DIY task can be jeopardised completely if you rush into your purchasing decision and buy wood which turns out to be unsuitable.

Therefore you may like to bear the following aspects in mind:

‘Horses for Courses’

The first thing you need to consider when selecting a type of wood is what you will be using it for. Think about it: will your chosen timber be used for a construction build, a carpentry project, a prototype build or merely as an ingredient for a bit of DIY? Considering how it will be used will help you to determine the species of wood you’ll need, so make sure you ascertain which wood will live up to your expectations beforehand.

Know about ‘Drying’

Knowing a bit about ‘drying’ will enable you to make a more informed decision when selecting timber. The main thing you need to remember is that air dried wood is better for working by hand (although it is sometimes the case that it has a higher moisture content than kiln-dried timbers). Whilst this may not seem overly important in the grand scheme of things, knowing about the drying method of timber can make all the difference to the usability and ease of handling.

Make the Grade

As you will most probably know, woods come in a variety of different grades (the grade being indicative of the quality). In general, higher grades of timber have fewer knots and are a lot clearer, while lower grades feature more knots (although this can be a good thing if you are looking for wood that has character). The ‘horses for courses’ approach will once again be beneficial when it comes to choosing a suitable grade for your needs.

Eco-Friendly?

Like many other consumers these days, you may well be concerned about the environment and whether or not your choice of wood will contribute in any way to global deforestation. With this in mind you will want to ensure the timber you source comes complete with full environmental certification. Therefore you should only do business with a timber merchant that is fully Chain of Custody certified, as this will give you peace of mind that you’re getting your wood from truly renewable and responsible sources.

These are just a few of the aspects you need to consider when selecting wood to suit your particular job. Fortunately you can address all of these considerations (and many more besides) quite comprehensively when you come to us here at Booker Timber as we are able to provide customers in every field and industry with timber, plywood sheets and cut-to-size MDF to suit any and all needs.

To find out more and take advantage of our expert advice either browse our pages further or call 0333 123 1290.


April 8, 2013

Precision Cutting From Booker Timber

CNC Cutting,MDF — Tags: , , — Booker Timber @ 9:45 am

Our Operation

Booker Timber has a great heritage of making complex cuts to a wide range of different materials including plywood and MDF. This is where we specialise, since we have invested in both the state of the art CNC cutting machinery and the most knowledgeable staff to achieve an accuracy of 0.1 millimetres. Of course, powerful computers loaded with the right software enable us to very rapidly create and finalise your designs, improving our efficiency considerably. Theoretically, the software can handle any size of cutting sheet you desire, but the machines themselves are always destined to be physically limited. Nevertheless, we boast some of the largest CNC Beam saws in the United Kingdom being able to take plywood, chipboard, OSB, hardboard, MFC and MDF sheets up to 6 metres long by 4 metres wide and 90 mm thick. We can therefore accept a wide variety of different sheets for all sorts of different applications.

Experience And Optimisation

Due to our considerable experience with cutting, we have both the capacity to handle large orders and very bespoke ones. By investing in some of the best cutting software around we can also produce cuts very rapidly while minimising waste and thereby saving money. Ultimately, we will use fewer boards to fulfill your order than other companies which translates to a better deal for you. When we cut to size MDF, for instance, we typically very little left over and can therefore offer you very competitive prices, particularly for large orders.

We are also the full solution. If you want your cuts to then be packaged, labelled, plastic wrapped and strapped, we can do it all, and exactly as you desire. Being able to do all this in-house is a huge advantage to both of us since we have refined the processes so jobs run very quickly and smoothly, with the minimum of transportation or the likelihood of damage when fulfilling each aspect. Again, no matter how big your order is, we will be able to cope and deliver to the dates we set.

Our machines are also highly optimised and well maintained. These machines are built to be high precision while our team have the ability to program the software to the exact requirements of our clients. The blade configuration we employ as well as our quality control measures ensure that melamine faced panels remain chip free. Our CNC routers can accept boards with a size of 3050 mm by 1220 mm and can be drilled, grooved, shaped, chamfered and profiled.

Working With Us

We can adapt to your designs no matter what they are, no matter how rough or how detailed. By contacting us you will be able to understand how we work and what we offer. In the past we have taken roughly sketched ideas by hand and realised them in the best possible way. Typically, however, our clients usually send us designs in the file formats .dwg or .dxf. We take orders from a wide variety of different sectors from multinational businesses to small, local operations.


March 25, 2013

How to source the right wood for your needs

Cutting News,MDF — Tags: , — Booker Timber @ 9:38 am

Wood is a key resource in a whole range of industries, but getting the right kind for the job is vital. Different woods will always have different properties so it’s important to choose wisely, and whether you’re after wood for industrial, trade or personal needs the same rules apply. The merchant you choose will be just as important to ensure you’ve got the experts on your side to accommodate your individual requirements, so here are a few points to bear in mind as you make your decision:

  • Decide on the properties required. Are you looking for a building material, wood for carpentry or perhaps something for a quick DIY job? These considerations will all come into it and will determine the species of wood you’ll need, so make sure to do your research to be certain your chosen wood can live up to expectations.
  • Know the drying method. It may not seem that important, but the drying method of timber can make all the difference to the usability and ease of handling—air dried wood is better for working by hand, although the potential downside is that it has a higher moisture content than kiln-dried timbers.
  • Consider the grade. All woods will come with different grades, with the grade being a clear reflection of quality. Higher grades will have fewer knots and will be a lot clearer, although you might be looking for a slightly lower grade with more character. Again, it all comes down to the specific reasons you need the wood.
  • Do they machine? Often, you’ll want to look for merchants that are able to offer a full machining and sheet cutting service, ensuring you’ll be getting a bespoke service as well as guaranteeing you’re left with the wood that’s perfect for your needs.
  • Environmental certification. With the increase in global deforestation, sourcing wood with full environmental certification will be high on the list of priorities for a lot of eco-conscious consumers. Ideally any supplier should be fully Chain of Custody certified, thereby ensuring you’re getting your wood from renewable and responsible sources.
  • These are just a few things you’ll need to consider when choosing the wood to suit your particular job, and of course it doesn’t stop there. Price will be another important consideration and delivery options will often come into it too, but if you’re looking for a supplier that can meet your criteria you’ve come to the right place.

    Here at Booker Timber we pride ourselves in offering all the timber, plywood sheets and cut to size MDF you could need to suit any and all applications, and with quality being our top priority you can be confident in getting the wood that will suit your every requirement. We offer a full machining service, are fully Chain of Custody certified and will always be available if you want to get advice from the experts, so make sure to get in touch and you’ll be one step closer to sourcing the right wood for your needs.


    July 23, 2012

    How A Timber Merchant Can Help Artists And Inventors

    CNC Cutting,MDF — Tags: , , , — Booker Timber @ 8:51 am

    From outside the industry, a timber merchant may look like a fairly niche operation. All of the equipment, the beam saws, the precision cutting tools, they are surely only used by architects and carpenters? This is not the case. Our equipment can be used by a variety of people, from artists, inventors, joiners and decorators. If your project requires precision cutting with a 0.1mm degree of accuracy then we can help you.

    What We Can Offer

    We are an independent company with extensive experience and have invested in state-of-the-art technology. By pairing powerful beam saws with computer precision, practically any shape or design can be crafted.

    Automated Machinery

    Computer numerically controlled cutting and routing are two of our most useful and versatile practices. They rely on the automation of engineering tools and cutting equipment. By feeding them specific pieces of information, for example certain points and paths they must follow, saws and blades can quickly set to work yet still produce a high level of accuracy. The speed of the operation helps to keep down costs, delivering a quality result at a reasonable price.

    With some of the biggest beam saws in the UK we can work with sheets up to 6 metres long and 3.8 metres wide. Materials we can work with include MDF, plywood and plastic.

    Cut To Size MDF

    Medium density fibreboard (MDF) is a versatile resource often used by engineers to make cheap prototypes of inventions. This allows them to test the models and work out any flaws before more substantial materials are used.

    MDF also appeals to artists as it is the most warp resistant wood panel available, ensuring that pictures of any medium will endure for years to come.

    MDF is an engineered wood made by breaking down elements of hardwood and softwood into fibres, then mixing it with wax and resin to bind it together. MDF sheets and panels are made by applying high temperatures and pressure. A denser composition than plywood, it is a ubiquitous building material. This is also due to the fact that by its very nature it contains no knots or similar impurities that could make crafting and construction difficult. Unlike hardboard, the internal structure of MDF allows it to withstand heat and moisture without distorting.

    As a merchant we are completely aware of the responsible sourcing of materials. We have achieved Chain of Custody certification, which means that customers can use our services without worrying that they are contributing to the destruction of forestry.

    Our staff have the necessary expertise and experience required when it comes to cutting MDF and using automated machinery. They can make the most of the computer equipment, which can work with sheets up to 90mm thick, and can answer queries regarding specific projects. Designs can be sent through to them beforehand, whether they are detailed blueprints or simple drawings, and they can provide advice that will make the most of the cutting process.


    July 9, 2012

    Affordable and Environmentally Friendly Timber Solutions

    MDF — Tags: , , — Booker Timber @ 8:47 am

    Regardless of whether you’re after affordable MDF, chipboard, plywood, orientated strand board, hardboard or melamine faced chipboard, we here at Booker Timber are the company to come to.

    As well as offering outstanding value for money in their own right, the chipboard and plywood sheets we provide here can save you even more cash as our optimisation software will calculate the most efficient (and therefore most cost-effective) way of cutting your wood when different sizes are required.

    Indeed, our sheet cutting services really are second to none as we have some of the largest CNC beam saws in the UK. These impressive machines provide us with the capacity to handle and cut sheets of up to six metres in length, four metres in width and with board thicknesses of up to 90 millimetres; therefore, you can be sure that we will be able to provide you with sizes and solutions to suit all requirements.

    As well as providing you with precision services at affordable prices, our effective and efficient cutting processes also help to reduce waste. We feel this is of great importance as being environmentally friendly is one of our main priorities here at Booker Timber.

    Indeed, we strive to be a modern, forward thinking company and the only way to do that in this day and age is take the needs of the wider world into account. Of course, we are very aware that timber production can be a very sensitive environmental and social issue; but, instead of burying our heads in the sand, we prefer to take responsibility for our actions and ensure that we are part of a solution, rather than adding to an existing problem.

    To this end, we are very proud to say that we are a Chain of Custody certified company. The Chain of Custody are an internationally recognised body that is responsible for examining the environmental sustainability of the world’s forests (and forest products). Their main task is to trace pieces of timber all the way back to the place where they were originally grown so that they can identify and approve them as being responsibly produced. To qualify for Chain of Custody approval, the production process of the timber in question must not have had a negative impact in any way on the lives of the people living in and around the forest of origin.

    As well as providing important trend data, this also helps consumers to make more environmentally informed choices when purchasing timber products. Therefore, whenever you see an Chain of Custody approval mark on a product (or company like ours), you can be sure that you are helping to maintain well managed, sustainable forests around the world

    So, regardless of what your own particular needs might be, you can rest assured that you will receive the most inexpensive, precisely cut and eco-friendly timber products around when you come to us here at Booker Timber. Explore our pages further or call us now on 0333 1231290 to find out more.


    May 21, 2012

    Helping you meet summer demand for garden timber

    MDF — Tags: , , — Booker Timber @ 9:05 am

    If you’re in the business of supplying wooden furniture, raised beds, shelters and so on for gardens, you might be set to experience a rise in demand for your products over coming weeks. After all, summer is just around the corner and so many consumers will be thinking about investing in new items to ensure their outdoor areas are up-to-scratch.

    Of course, if you’re going to be able to meet demand for your products, it’s important you find the ideal timber merchant to supply your materials. By achieving this, you can help ensure your production runs smoothly and your finished items look the part.

    The rise of the ‘outdoor room’

    In the past, gardens were predominantly seen as areas for plants, grass, ponds and so on. However, there’s an increasing trend toward a more functional use of these spaces and individuals are now inclined to invest in decking, tables, chairs, recliners and other products to help them enjoy their gardens.

    Commenting on this issue in the Financial Times recently, Victoria Maw said: “Although Victorian walled gardens might have featured the odd stone bench, their only function was to provide a place to sit and admire the plants. If tea was taken outdoors, it was usually on a table that was carried outside and then swiftly taken away.

    “But attitudes have changed over the past 50 years. Nowadays people expect their garden to fulfil a range of different functions and furniture has evolved to meet this need.”

    Boosting living space

    Ms Maw went on to suggest that more and more furniture is being designed to meet the brief of an “outdoor living room” and a rising number of people are investing considerable sums in outdoor shelters, some of which can cost tens of thousands of pounds.

    How we can help

    When you’re on the lookout for wood to help you meet demand among your customers, you might benefit from taking a look at what we have to offer here at Booker Timber. We’re experts when it comes to producing superb timber panels.

    Our CNC beam saws are among the largest in the UK and we have the capacity to handle and cut sheets of up to six metres in length and four metres in width, with board thicknesses of up to 90 millimetres.

    A broad selection and great value

    Whether you’re after MDF, chipboard, plywood, orientated strand board, hardboard or melamine faced chipboard, we’re the firm to come to.

    Also, our cut to size chipboard and plywood sheets represent superb value for money and to save you even more cash, our optimisation software will calculate the most efficient way to cut your boards where different sizes are required. As well as lowering your costs, this reduces waste, which is good news for the environment.

    Find out more

    If you’re keen to find out more about what we have to offer, you can take a look around the rest of our website. Meanwhile, there’s also the option of getting in touch with our friendly and professional team by phone.


    May 7, 2012

    Cut to Size MDF – Some Uses and Benefits

    MDF,Sheets — Tags: , , — Booker Timber @ 9:25 am

    MDF is an incredibly versatile material that has a lot of uses throughout the home and businesses. First manufactured in the 1980s, MDF is created by turning softwood into fibres and combining it with wax and resin. It is then formed by applying pressure to it at very high temperatures. This strong and stable material is an excellent cost effective alternative to solid wood that can be used to make office furniture, table tops, exhibition stands and much more.

    MDF sheets are ideal for a number of DIY applications. It is affordable and easy to work with, and can be used to make furniture that can be used throughout the home and office. MDF has a mild reaction to moisture, making it ideal for use in the bathroom, as well as other high-humidity environments. It is also incredibly strong and has fire resistant properties, making it ideal for use in the kitchen or as a fire surround. MDF is available in a variety of thicknesses, lengths and widths depending on what it is to be used for.

    Just like many varieties of solid wood, MDF can give off a lot of dust during cutting. It’s recommended that you wear a mask at all times during the cutting process. However, a more practical solution is to purchase cut to size MDF from Booker Timber. They use the latest in sheet cutting technology to cut MDF into an almost infinite range of shapes and sizes, leaving you free to get on with your DIY projects.