Processing
Define timber processing
Conversion of felled trees into usable timber for construction and other purposes.
What is timber seasoning?
Controlled removal of moisture from timber.
Cheapest method
Air seasoning.
Define timber preservation
Treating timber with chemicals to protect against decay, insects, fungi, and moisture.
Best treatment for furniture
Water-borne preservatives.
What is felling?
Cutting down mature trees at the appropriate season.
One reason for seasoning timber
Prevents warping, cracking, and shrinkage.
Fastest method
Kiln seasoning.
One surface application method
Brushing / Spraying / Dipping.
Best method for outdoor posts
Pressure treatment.
Difference between plain and quarter sawing
Plain sawing is cheaper but less durable; quarter sawing is stronger and more stable.
One defect caused by excess moisture
Warping or cracking.
Weather-dependent method
Air seasoning.
Method forcing preservative deep into timber
Pressure treatment.
Why use fire-retardant treatments?
To reduce flammability and improve fire safety.
Why is grading important?
It classifies timber based on quality, strength, and defects.
Why seasoning before preservation?
Dry timber absorbs preservatives more effectively.
One limitation of kiln seasoning
Expensive and energy-intensive.
Preservative for railway sleepers
Creosote
Where are water-borne preservatives used?
Furniture, joinery, interior building components.
Correct order of processing stages
Felling → Conversion → Sawing → Planing → Seasoning → Preservation → Grading
Two benefits of seasoning
Increases strength and durability; reduces fungal and insect attack.
Method using electric current
Electrical seasoning.
Preservative suitable for indoor timber
Boric acid or Borax.
Why preservation increases durability?
It protects timber from insects, fungi, moisture, and decay.