Physical properties of timber

Physical Properties of Timber

Properties

• Durability

• Dimensional Stability

• Abrasion resistance

• Shrink resistance

• Strength

• Flexibility

Durability

• Durability of timber is the ability to perform its intended task for a required period of time. This means its performance when exposed to hazards such as decay (fungi) and insects (termites etc)

Dimensional Stability

• Dimensional stability refers to how wood shrinks and swells in relation to moisture gain or loss. In other words, how it “moves” consistently throughout its life.

Abrasion Resistance

• Abrasion resistance refers to timbers ability to withstand abrasion, scratching and wear from various objects, tools and general use.

Shrink Resistance

• Wood shrinks when going from its green to a dry state as it loses moisture. Radial shrinkage in solid wood can vary from less than 2% for some of the more stable wood species, upwards to around 8%

Strength

• Strength refers to timbers ability to withstand forces, pressure and loads before it will break.

Flexibility

• Flexibility refers to woods capablity to be bent, without breaking.