Gut callbacks & claims with proper panel handling

(RTORE them rightl handle them 9well. I)ealers who follow those two simple rules can decrease claims involving structural wood panels. Preventing damage to panels in the yard or on delivery to the jobsite is, literally, no problem.

First, store panels under cover whenever possible. lf they may be exposed to rain, high humidity or other conditions which might cause moisture absorption, cut the steel banding on the bundles. This will prevent damage to edges and to the top and bottom panels in each stack.

Handle panels carefully at all times, and especially avoid dropping or bumping them on edge, which may splinter or chip corners. This

Story at a Glance

Tips to prevent panel damage in yarding and dellvery... instructions for stacking, coverIng .procedures that eliminate claims and callbacks.

type of damage won't affect a panel's structural performance, but it can add to in-place repair costs and make a dealer's product look inferior. lt's especially important to protect the edges of tongue-and-groove panels, since edge damage can make it a problem to fit these panels together. When delivering panels to the jobsite, never dump them directly onto the ground. Uneven terrain, mud and moisture can play havoc with panels, leading to warping, delamination and other problems. Find a high, dry, level area for storage.