A natural material, wood may have natural imperfections.  

Some of them are superficial and therefore are not covered by our product guarantee. This is normal and has no effect at all on the product’s durability. 

Hue Differences

All tree species present hue differences. Processing reinforces them because the product penetrates the material to a greater or lesser extent, depending on density and graining. Exposing wood outside markedly attenuates such hue differences. 

Upwelling Resin

When autoclaving resinous species (pine, spruce), alternating vacuum and pressure may bring sticky resin residue to the surface of the wood. To remove it, simply scrape it delicately with a suitable tool, without touching the wood. Turpentine is also effective, but may stain the media if used in too great quantities. 

Upwelling Salts

Autoclaved wood frequently shows small green spots on the surface. If you wish, you may lightly sand them. 

Greying

The action of sun on wood (exotic species, treated pine) may cause characteristic greying. Some people appreciate the silvery reflections of this natural patina. If you prefer to maintain the original wood colour, in brown tones, as soon as it is installed, use a protective product (stain, oil). You may also choose to paint your equipment, except for the floors, according to your taste. 

Surface Mould

Wood is subject to gathering mould, caused by microscopic fungi. This may cause “bluing”, particularly for resinous species. This phenomenon that appears on the surface, reinforced by heat, humidity, and a lack of ventilation, is characterized by spots ranging from light blue to blue-black in colour. To remove, simply wipe them off. 

Remember that class 3 and 4 treated wood (treated pine), or naturally durable outdoor woods (exotic species) are of course protected against fungi attacks that may denature their physical and mechanical qualities. For more details, please consult Courland's guarantees based on species and processing. 

Knots

Knots represent a mark of where tree branches once were. Their quantity and size depends on the wood species and selection. For outdoor facilities, intergrown knots and small knots are accepted. The more stringent the selection criteria with regards to knot quantity and size, the more expensive the wood. Our “Basics” range has more knots than our other product ranges. 

Fissures and Honey Combing

Wood dimensions vary depending on temperature and humidity levels. When dry, it retracts in an irregular manner, causing the appearance of fissures. They may be considerable. However, they do not diminish the product’s mechanical characteristics, and consequently, are not covered by the guarantee. 

Stake and Tutor Wane

Stakes and tutors, as rustic products, may have wane, i.e. residual bark.