Reclaimed Structural Timber Buyer's Checklist Preston 2026

Before you go

• Ring ahead — confirm the timber is still on the yard
• Ask for photos of the exact stock
• Confirm price per unit and total
• Route-plan to the Preston yard, factor in weight for return trip

On the yard

• Dense, slow-grown fibre — often 30–50% stronger than modern C16
• Air-dried for decades — dimensionally stable
• Nail holes and character marks add heritage patina

Payment protection

• Prefer card over cash for larger buys
• Get an invoice with VAT number where applicable
• Photograph loaded vehicle before leaving
• Keep receipts against manufacturer warranty (surplus)

Collection and delivery inside Preston

Most Preston sellers hold stock inside PR1, PR2 and PR5 and offer Lancashire next-day £45–£75. For loads over a tonne of timber, a hiab drop is usually more economical than multiple van runs.