WHY AND FOR WHAT PURPOSE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE OAK BRIDGES?

Oak decks are used for the production of wooden structures, footbridges, bridges as a tasteful massive structural element over any water obstacle. Oak decks are very strong and durable with a very nice pattern and structure. The strength of oak decks is greater than that of coniferous wood beams due to the high density of oak, so they are used, among other things, for greater loads. They are also used for aesthetic reasons, the wood is colored brown with a beautiful and decorative pattern. Oak contains a high amount of tannins, and when cut, it has a distinctive and unmistakable aroma. The lengths of oak decks are in whole meters up to a length of 5m. The dimensions of oak beams can be produced up to a dimension of 450x450mm. We will prepare individual dimensions and lengths of oak beams according to requirements. We will also supply a certificate for structural lumber from hardwood upon request. .

WHAT OAK BRIDGES CAN WE MAKE FOR YOU, DEPENDING ON THE PURPOSE OF USE?

Rustic look with a higher proportion of knots and curls

Rustic oak decking emphasizes the natural beauty of oak wood without perfect industrial sharp-edged processing. Beams processed in this way will take you back several centuries to a time when perfection was not emphasized. More or less running edges of stripped bark, small and large healthy knots remind you every time you look at this beautiful piece of wood that in the beginning it was a tree that had grown for tens or even hundreds of years with a natural curvature rising towards the light with a bushy branching in the crown of the tree. To produce rustic oak beams, trunks with a larger number of cut branches (knots) and not completely straight are used.

Rustic oak beams are suitable for use in larger square and rectangular dimensions of 150mm or more, e.g. in the form of a solid bench, table, or design element in the interior and exterior.

Sharp-edged appearance with fewer knots

When producing exposed oak beams and prisms, we emphasize the quality of processing so that all edges are sharp without curves and a large number of larger knots. Exposed oak beams, with their clean appearance and quality, show the majesty of oak wood and are suitable for structural and luxurious design elements of various small and large building elements.

To produce exposed oak bridge decks, trunks are used, in order, the first and second pieces from the bottom of the tree with a smaller number of cut branches (knots) and minimal curvature.

Exposed oak decking is also suitable for smaller square and rectangular dimensions of 80mm and more, e.g. solid chairs, tables, design elements in the interior and exterior – gazebos, pergolas, exposed trusses and other solid structures.

Freshly cut (castrated) oak bridge decks with undetermined moisture content

The disadvantage of using unprocessed lumber can be a high water content and subsequent volume changes and deformations when drying to equilibrium moisture. Higher water content can also be problematic in terms of increased risk of attack by wood-destroying insects, molds and fungi, but this is to a small extent in the case of oak, as oak is resistant to these attacks.

When purchasing raw lumber, it is a good idea to choose the right quality for the type of use. Generally speaking, center-grained lumber, ideally radial, without any pith content, will be the strongest and most stable.

On the other hand, installing elements made of undried wood containing pulp can cause undesirable effects in the form of twisting, drying cracks, etc.

This product of basic sawmilling does not lose its popularity in traditional carpentry constructions, where a relatively wide range of cross-sectional dimensions is used – they are used in gazebos, pergolas, roof trusses, exterior structures, oak beams in the garden, bridge decks, sleepers and other

Technically dried, planed oak bridge decks

The profiles are made from technically dried oak lumber with guaranteed moisture content (usually 15% ±3%). For larger dimensions over 120mm, it is produced as center lumber or for smaller dimensions, the primary cut of the log is made with care taken to cut through the pith (center of the trunk). This guarantees higher dimensional stability.

Four-sided planing or grinding and chamfered edges are a matter of course – for ceiling beams and other visual elements, we supply oak beams with planed, ground, decoratively milled edges, grooves or hand-planed edges.

We will be happy to advise you on choosing the right material…

SHOULD I TREAT OAK BRIDGES OR LET THEM TURN GREY?

Oak does not need a finish in outdoor conditions, as it can last for about 20 to 30 years without decaying if not in direct contact with the ground. Untreated oak will turn grey in about 2-3 years due to sunlight and humidity. The colour will first change from the points most exposed to the weather and will even out over a few years depending on the conditions. The greying of the wood can be slowed down by treating the wood with transparent wood preservatives. Exterior cladding made of oak also does not need to be finished, as the material oak can withstand UV radiation and humidity. However, the wood will turn grey over the years. Please note that during the greying process the surface tone may be uneven.

     

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ELEMENTARY AND PLATE BRIDGES?

Element bridge decks

Composition : Precast bridge decks consist of longitudinal and transverse beams, which allows them to be used for shorter bridge spans, typically up to 33 meters.

Uses : They are ideal for girder bridges where shorter distances need to be covered. Their construction provides some flexibility in design and easier maintenance.

Advantages : Easy to repair and can be adapted to different sizes and specifications.

Slab bridge decks

Composition : Slab bridge decks have a more homogeneous structure, usually monolithic slabs or prefabricated elements that are capable of carrying greater loads.

Uses : They are used for longer obstacles where greater stability and load capacity are needed. They are more often used in modern structures where high strength and durability are required.

Advantages : High load capacity and ability to distribute the load over a larger area, which reduces the risk of damage.

The main difference between precast and slab decks lies in their structural arrangement and application. Precast decks are suitable for shorter spans with flexible design options, while slab decks provide higher strength and stability for longer obstacles.

MAXIMUM LENGTH OF A BRIDGE WITH OAK BRIDGES?

The maximum length of a bridge with oak decks is usually up to  5 meters . Oak decks are very strong and durable, which makes them suitable for various structures, including bridges and footbridges. The length of the decks can be adjusted to individual requirements, but the standard length is a maximum of 5 meters.

In terms of specifications, oak decking is produced in various dimensions, with dimensions up to  450 x 450 mm . For heavier loads, it is recommended to use oak wood, which has a higher density and strength than coniferous wood.

It is also important to mention that for structures longer than 20 meters, additional support elements and techniques are usually used to ensure the stability and safety of the entire structure.

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