While timber is a traditional bridge-building material, you might not have thought about using it on a  modern bridge construction project. However, timber still has some advantages here. What are they?

1. Fast Construction 

Building a bridge from steel or concrete can take some time. You need extra engineering checks to ensure that the weight of your materials is suited to the design of the build and the areas you build on.

Plus, it might take some time to get all the component parts you need for the build to your site. For example, if you buy pre-cast concrete or specially-sized steel, then you have to wait for all of the bridge's parts to be constructed and delivered before you can start your build.

The weather can also play a part here. You might not be able to build if the weather is too rainy or cold. This can be a particular problem if you pour concrete on site. You need dry conditions for the pouring and curing processes.

Timber bridges are typically faster to construct. Timber is a naturally lightweight material. You won't have such a wait to get the wood you need to start building. Plus, you can construct a timber bridge safely in any weather.

2. Robust Strength

Your bridge should use strong materials that can bear the weight of their traffic. While steel and concrete are good options here, don't assume that timber can't also do this job.

Structural timbers can match the strength of steel and concrete. Timber bridges can cope with heavy and constant traffic just as effectively.

The timbers you use on this build will contain treatments that protect the integrity and strength of the wood. It won't rot, even below water levels. It will keep its shape.

Plus, wood can withstand the test of time better than other materials. Unlike concrete, treated structural timbers won't crumble. Unlike steel, they won't rust or corrode. They have better weather resistance.

3. Low Maintenance

While any bridge needs regular maintenance, the work you have to do here varies depending on the materials you use in the build. For example, if you use steel, then you might have to deal with rust problems as the metal ages. If you paint the bridge, then you will have to repaint it regularly.

Timber bridges are typically low maintenance. You won't have to deal with rust problems or painting upgrades. As long as your timber has the right preservatives on and in it, then it won't need much work.

For more information, contact timber bridge specialists.