Spimbey 2004 - About Our Wood; Wood Weathering Explained

About our wood
One of the main reasons for weathering is the effects of water (moisture); the moisture content of the wood at the
surface is different from the interior of the wood. As the climate changes, moisture moves in or out of the wood, causing
tension which can result in checking and or warping. You can expect the following due to weathering. These changes
will not affect the strength of the product:
At the factory we have coated the wood with a water repellent or stain. This coating decreases the amount of water
absorption during rain or snow thus decreasing the tension in the wood. Sunlight will break down the coating, so we
recommend applying a water repellent or stain on a yearly basis (see your local stain and paint supplier for a recommended
product)
Most weathering is just the normal result of nature and will not affect safe play and enjoyment for your child. However if you
are concerned that a part has experienced a severe weathering problem please call our consumer relations department for
further assistance.
What causes weathering? Does it affect the strength of my Play System?
How can I reduce the amount of weathering to my Play System?
Spimbey Play Systems uses only premium playset lumber, ensuring the safest product for your children’s use. Although we
take great care in selecting the best quality lumber available, wood is still a product of nature and susceptible to weathering
which can change the appearance of your set.
Checking is surface cracks in the wood along the grain. A post 4” x 4” (101mm x 101mm) will experience more checking
than a board 1” x 4” (25mm x 101mm) because the surface and the interior moisture content will vary more widely than
in thinner wood.
Warping results from any distortion (twisting, cupping) from the original plane of the board and often happens from
rapid wetting and drying of the wood.
Fading happens as a natural change in the wood color as it is exposed to sun-light and will turn a grey over time.
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