Durability of Timber Construction

Built to last.

Durability of Wood-Framed Buildings

When buildings are designed with local climate impacts in mind, wood buildings can last for centuries. Wood has the ability to absorb and release moisture, and is resistant to many of the chemicals and conditions that adversely affect steel and concrete, such as corrosive salts, dilute acids, industrial stack gases, sea air, and extreme climate variances. 

When used in tandem with proper envelope design, building with wood can reduce future maintenance and repair costs. Good design also ensures that wood materials last and weather well in various climates, including those with high humidity, frequent sun, and heavy rain.

The interior of a mass timber building with wooden pillars and windows.
Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater
Bing Thom Architects
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Did you know?
  • Wooden pagoda of Buddhist Fogong Temple in Yink County, Shaxi province
  • 1056

    A wooden pagoda in Yink County, Shaxi province, China has been standing strong since 1056 – over 950 years.

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Designing for Durability
Mass timber panel creation

Architects specify wood for many reasons, including cost, ease and efficiency of construction, design versatility, and sustainability—as well as its beauty and the innate appeal of nature and natural materials.

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