Why is C24 more expensive than C16 timber?

C24 commands a 10–15% premium over C16 because: (1) fewer trees in a harvest meet the higher grading threshold (lower yield per log), (2) machine grading equipment and quality control add processing cost, (3) kiln drying to 12% MC (standard for C24) costs more than the higher MC acceptable for some C16 applications, and (4) market demand for C24 is much higher (80% of structural timber sold is C24), supporting the premium. Despite the premium, C24 offers better value per unit of structural performance.

C24 commands a 10–15% premium over C16 because: (1) fewer trees in a harvest meet the higher grading threshold (lower yield per log), (2) machine grading equipment and quality control add processing cost, (3) kiln drying to 12% MC (standard for C24) costs more than the higher MC acceptable for some C16 applications, and (4) market demand for C24 is much higher (80% of structural timber sold is C24), supporting the premium. Despite the premium, C24 offers better value per unit of structural performance.

Why this matters

This question relates to Timber Pricing Factors: What Drives Cost in 2026, which covers the broader topic in detail. Understanding this specific aspect helps architects, builders, and timber dealers make informed specification decisions.

For full context and additional technical detail, see our comprehensive guide:

→ Timber Pricing Factors: What Drives Cost in 2026

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About this answer

This answer is part of the PuurModulair Knowledge Base — comprehensive timber specification guidance for architects, builders, and dealers across the UK, EU, and Scandinavia.