Structural Wood

Why is wood an excellent structural material? Structural wood has excellent properties of strength and fire resistance that makes it perfect for low-rise commercial, public and social buildings.

Strength

Structural wood is graded according to its strength and load-bearing properties. Different grades of timber can be used for different purposes. Timber is graded visually and through machine testing. Visual grading limits the size of knots and other visible features that will affect the wood’s strength and load-bearing properties. Machine testing measures the strength or stiffness of each board.

Fire Resistance

Large timber members offer substantial fire resistance. Rather than bursting into flames, large members burn slowly and form char on the surface. The charcoal protects the core of the wood and the wood will retain its structural integrity during a fire.

Earthquake Proof

Timber buildings are required to be designed in accordance with New Zealand building standards to ensure that they will perform well in earthquakes.

Learn more about the different ways that wood can be used to enhance your living environment.
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