SK Trade, sktrade.co.uk

Timber & Sheets

CLS Studwork Timber

CLS (Canadian Lumber Standard) timber is kiln-dried, planed softwood with rounded edges, sized at 38 × 63 mm and 38 × 89 mm, used mainly for internal stud walls.

CLS is the go-to timber for internal partitions because it is straight, dry and consistent, so boards fix flat. We supply 38 × 63 mm and 38 × 89 mm CLS in common lengths, with noggins and the screws and plasterboard to finish the wall.

A timber stud wall frame built from pale CLS studwork with spare lengths stacked on the floor

What we supply

  • 38 × 63 mm CLSFor non-loadbearing partitions and boxing in.
  • 38 × 89 mm CLSFor taller partitions, more insulation depth or heavier boards.
  • Graded CLSC16 or C24 graded CLS for loadbearing studwork where specified.
  • Noggins and head platesCut from the same stock.
  • FixingsScrews, nails and frame fixings to suit.

Sizes and specifications

Sections38 × 63 mm, 38 × 89 mm
Common lengths2.4 m, 3.0 m, 3.6 m, 4.2 m, 4.8 m
ConditionKiln dried, planed, rounded arrises

Sizes and standards are typical for the UK market; exact figures depend on the manufacturer and are confirmed on your quote.

Common uses

  • Internal partitions
  • Boxing in pipes
  • Loft conversion walls
  • Wardrobe and cupboard frames

Choosing CLS timber

Which size?

38 × 63 mm suits most partitions up to standard ceiling heights. 38 × 89 mm gives stiffer, taller walls and more room for insulation.

Stud spacing

Studs are usually set at 400 mm or 600 mm centres to suit 1200 mm wide plasterboard.

Loadbearing walls

If the wall carries load it needs graded timber to a design. Plain CLS is not automatically structural.

How it arrives on site

CLS travels in bundles alongside plasterboard and is easy to hand off at the kerb. We agree the drop point and offload method when we price your order. Read more about how delivery works.

How much do you need?

A 3.6 m partition 2.4 m high at 400 mm centres takes 10 CLS studs, 7.2 m of head and sole plate and a row of noggins, then boarding on both sides. Work out the boards too

CLS Studwork Timber: questions

What does CLS stand for?

Canadian Lumber Standard. It refers to the way the timber is dried, planed and finished with rounded edges.

Is CLS timber treated?

CLS is kiln dried rather than treated as standard, because it is meant for dry internal use. Treated CLS is available if you need it.

Can CLS be used for loadbearing walls?

Only if it is strength graded and the wall is designed for the load. Ask for graded CLS if your design calls for it.

How many studs do I need?

Divide the wall length by the stud spacing (400 or 600 mm), add one, then add plates and noggins. Our plasterboard calculator gives the boards for the same wall.

What is the difference between CLS and planed timber?

CLS has rounded edges and is sized for studwork; planed all round timber has square edges and comes in many more sizes for joinery and trim.

CLS Studwork Timber delivered across the UK

Choose your county for local delivery details and towns.

Related guides

Send your list, get a delivered price

Tell us what you need and where it is going. We check the quantities and come back with a delivered price before you commit.

CallGet a price