Carpentry & Building Construction

Chapter 12: Wood as a Building Material

Chapter Summaries

Section 12.1 Wood Basics
The suitability of lumber for construction depends on the species of wood, how the lumber is manufactured, and on various measurements of its strength and stiffness. Wood may be either hardwood or softwood. Softwoods are more common in construction. Defects can reduce the utility of lumber. Grading standards take defects and other characteristics of wood into account.

Section 12.2 Protecting Wood
Wood can be damaged by decay and by wood-infesting insects, such as termites and beetles. This damage can be prevented by reducing the moisture content of lumber and ensuring that wood is not allowed to remain wet. Decay-resistant or preservative-treated woods can prevent problems.