What is timber preservation?

Answer 1

Timber preservation has different meanings depending on the context of the question. In property and building, timber preservation generally refers to the application of treatments (chemicals) to timber to stop the attack of woodworm, fungal decay (wet rot/dry rot) and to protect it from the effects of dampness. Alternative methods of timber preservation can be employed without the use of chemicals, these could be to introduce a physical barrier (such as a membrane) between the timber and a source of moisture or even something as simple as increasing the airflow around timbers can prevent or arrest the causes of timber degredation. The latter described methods are of course more environmentally freindly and relatively inexpensive. Timber can be purchased from merchants pre treated if it is to be installed in a situation where contact with dampness or insects can be expected. There are many different types of treatment and methods of application. Some of the most common pre treated timbers would be roofing laths and decking timbers.