Properties of good timbers are:
Colour:
It should be uniform.
Odour:
It should be pleasant when cut freshly.
Soundness:
A clear ringing sound when struck indicates the timber is good.
Texture:
Texture of good timber is fine and even.
Grains:
In good timber grains are close.
Density:
Higher the density stronger is the timber.
Hardness:
Harder timbers are strong and durable.
Warping:
Good timber do not warp under changing environmental conditions.
Toughness:
Timber should be capable of resisting shock loads.
Abrasion:
Good timber do not deteriorate due to wear. This property should be looked into, if timber is to be used for flooring.
Strength:
Timber should have high strength in bending, shear and direct compression.
Modulus of Elasticity:
Timber with higher modulus of elasticity are preferred in construction.
Fire resistance:
A good timber should have high resistance to fire.
Permeability:
Good timber has low water permeability.
Workability:
Timber should be easily workable. It should not clog the saw.
Durability:
Good timber is one which is capable of resisting the action of fungi and insects attack.
Defects:
Good timber is free from defects like dead knots, shakes and cracks.
