Whippletree has been more than just a supplier of premium English Oak for over two decades. Our 75,000+ cubic feet of stock is just the beginning. We understand that working with this remarkable wood requires specialised knowledge and experience. That is why we offer Oak Performance Consultancy – a service that goes beyond simply providing timber.
English Oak is renowned for its strength, beauty, and longevity. However, its inherent properties can also present challenges, especially in unique environments or large-scale projects. Factors like moisture content, humidity, and even the age of the building itself can significantly impact how oak performs over time.
That is where Whippletree comes in. We help clients navigate these complexities with our English Oak Consultancy services, ensuring that their oak projects look stunning and stand the test of time.
Case Study: Winchester Cathedral's South Transept Renovation
One notable example of our consultancy in action was the renovation of Winchester Cathedral's South Transept. The challenge? It is a centuries-old structure with thick stone walls, fluctuating temperatures, and no damp-proofing. The goal? Install beautiful, wide English oak flooring that can withstand unique conditions.
Our team worked closely with Nick Cox Architects, contractor Owlsworth IJP, and the Cathedral's building team. We analysed a year's worth of environmental data, determining the optimal moisture content for the oak boards and anticipating seasonal movement.
We crafted sample boards with the exact specifications to test our findings and placed them within the Cathedral. Rigorous monitoring confirmed their stability, allowing the flooring to be laid confidently. Months later, a follow-up inspection revealed perfectly flat, unchanged boards – a testament to our meticulous approach.
Our English Oak Consultancy Process
Whippletree's Oak Performance Consultancy is a collaborative effort tailored to each project's specific needs. Our consultancy begins with a comprehensive assessment of your project site. This involves thoroughly analysing the environment, including humidity, temperature fluctuations, and the building's age or construction style. We also carefully consider existing structures and the intended use of the oak, as these can significantly influence its performance.
This initial assessment leads to a detailed data analysis phase, where we collect and interpret relevant information. We explore historical weather patterns, examine existing moisture levels, and gather other data to help us predict how the oak will behave in your specific setting.
Based on our findings, we offer tailored recommendations. This can include advice on the ideal moisture content for your oak boards, optimal board widths for stability, the most effective installation techniques, and strategies to mitigate potential movement. We aim to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for a successful project.
In cases where the project presents unique challenges, we recommend additional testing. This often involves creating sample boards with specific dimensions and moisture content and placing them on-site for monitoring. This allows us to validate our recommendations and fine-tune our approach as needed.
Throughout the process and even after installation, we remain available to provide ongoing support. We understand that questions or concerns may arise, and we're dedicated to ensuring your project's long-term success.
Bespoke Sample Panel Service
Whippletree offers a bespoke sample panel service to assist specifiers and clients with larger projects. This allows you to experience the quality and beauty of our English Oak firsthand, tailored to your project's specific requirements.
Our bespoke sample panels can be customised with various finishes and treatments, offering a realistic preview of the final result. This helps you make informed decisions about the oak choices that best suit your project's aesthetics and functionality.
Please note that a fee applies for full bespoke sample panels. However, should your project proceed, this fee is fully redeemable against your final order with Whippletree.
Partner with Whippletree for Oak Excellence
Whether you are embarking on a historical restoration, a modern architectural marvel, or a residential renovation, Whippletree's English Oak Consultancy can help you achieve exceptional results. Contact us today to learn more about how our expertise can elevate your next project.
