Short answer: timber is a natural product. Knots, colour, grain and slight dimensional or shape variation are normal — not a factory defect. At Houthandel Jan Sok in Meppel we supply A-grade for garden and building use, and we set expectations clearly before you buy.
Knots, colour and grain
Every board is unique. Knots, colour variation and grain belong to real timber. For visible work, choose species and finish to match the project; furniture-perfect blank faces are not typical of outdoor timber.
Movement, warping and checks
Wood keeps moving with humidity. Store dry and flat, acclimatise before fixing, and use enough fasteners. Slight movement or hairline checks after installation are normal weather behaviour, not a return reason.
Dimensions
Merchant sizes are trade sizes, not furniture millimetre precision. Light tolerances are common. Need exact lengths? Ask for cut-to-size — that is custom work and non-returnable. See returns.
A-grade versus B-grade and discounters
Our prices are sharp for A-grade with stock, advice and delivery from Meppel. Pure online discounters or B-grade promo lots can be cheaper — often with more waste or less selection. We compete on usable timber + advice, not the lowest spot price.
What is a valid claim?
- Clear delivery error (wrong item or length vs order)
- Visible damage on delivery (report immediately)
- Manufacturing fault beyond normal timber variation
Not a valid claim: natural knots, colour, grain, slight dimensional variation, movement after installation. Legal frame: our terms.
Storage and acclimatising
- Store dry, flat, out of sun and rain
- Keep banding until you process packs
- Let timber settle for a few days before final fixing
- Fix to good practice (enough screws, allow movement where needed)
Quantity help: calculation tips or quote. Call +31 522 851 551.
FAQ
Can I return timber because it has knots?
No. Knots are part of natural timber unless a special selection was agreed.
Boards warped after installation — what now?
Check storage, ventilation and fixing. Moisture movement is normal. Suspected delivery faults: report in writing within 8 days.
Why are you not always the cheapest?
We sell A-grade with stock and advice. B-grade or discounters can undercut on price; total project cost matters.