Wood is one of the oldest building materials used by humans.
Its availability, ease of use and versatility have made it a fundamental building material for thousands of years. And then there is lumber — the product created from processing wood for specific purposes, including in construction and other applications.
Materials like steel, concrete, brick, aluminum and fiberglass are chosen for their specific properties that make them suitable for industry requirements, harsh environments and demanding conditions present in refinery and construction projects.
But lumber is not to be forgotten. It plays a vital and multifaceted role in supporting the infrastructure, operations and safety of the O&G industry, making it an important resource for companies in the sector.
Lumber is an affordable choice for construction and support structures, often cheaper than other materials. It is easy to shape, cut and assemble for various needs, making it versatile. It can be used for many purposes — from safety barriers, to lay down materials — plywood laid on the ground that serves as a temporary roadway or working platform, facilitating operations in remote or challenging terrains by providing stable surfaces for heavy equipment, aiding exploration and production activities. Lumber is widely available in regions where operations occur, making it convenient. It is also lighter and easier to handle than many materials, reducing the need for heavy machinery during construction and maintenance.
Utilizing lumber can enhance environmental sustainability and mitigate the environmental impact of construction projects.
Lumber is crucial for construction and maintenance because of its versatility and benefits. It is used when building pipelines, deep foundations, platforms and storage facilities, providing support and framework. It is used in the construction of buildings, shelters and warehousing, as well as for temporary structures like worker housing and offices.
Utilizing lumber can enhance environmental sustainability and mitigate the environmental impact of construction projects. When sourced from responsibly managed forests, lumber yields environmental benefits by encouraging sustainable forestry practices and diminishing the industry’s carbon footprint. As a renewable resource, wood can be naturally and sustainably replenished through responsible forestry techniques. Additionally, sourcing lumber locally enables companies to decrease dependence on imported materials, bolstering regional economic development and fortifying local supply chains. Opting for materials from sustainable sources not only aligns with corporate social responsibility goals but also guarantees a dependable and eco-friendly supply chain for construction and logistics.
In addition to its direct applications in O&G infrastructure, lumber plays a critical role in transportation and logistics — shipping and packaging materials and equipment. In manufacturing, wooden blocks and shipping saddles are crucial for supporting and stabilizing equipment such as pipes, tanks and machinery during transportation. In facility maintenance, there are many applications for lumber in the construction of scaffolding, providing structure and safety.
Lumber’s crucial yet understated role deserves recognition. The reliance on lumber is a testament to the industry’s ability to adapt and innovate, finding strength in materials that have been used for centuries. Lumber truly emerges as a cornerstone, anchoring the O&G industry and showcasing its endurance in the wake of evolution.
Simplify options when in pursuit of custom industrial lumber solutions. Lodge Lumber has the capability to solve customers’ biggest challenges and meet their specifications.
For more information, visit lodgelumber.com.
