FAQ Category: Materials

Where can I obtain information on plywood gusset (gussett) plate connections and plywood gusset trusses?

The Midwest Plan Service publishes a Structures and Environment Handbook which address gussets in section 406.5 under Wood Truss Design. The most recent edition is a 1987 Revised 11th Edition. Midwest Plan Service 122 Davidson Hall Iowa State University Ames, IA 50011-3080 Toll Free: (800) 562-3618 Customer Service: (515) 294-4337 Fax: (515) 294-9589 E-mail: [email protected] Other info available…

Are OSB and plywood considered wood so the R values can be summed?

Yes, R values can be summed for OSB and plywood. Values are shown in Design for Code Acecptance 7 –  Meeting Residential Energy Requirements with Wood-Frame Construction – 2012 IECC Version.   The following FAQ is based on the presentation of BCD600 – Meeting Residential Energy Requirements with Wood-Frame Construction.

Where can I find information on painting and finishing wood products?

The USDA Forest Products Lab has a publication called the Wood Handbook that contains information regarding finishes for wood products. View this information online at: http://www.fpl.fs.fed.us/documnts/fplgtr/fplgtr113/fplgtr113.htm Chapters 14 and 15 may provide information specific to your needs. The TOC for both chapters is as follows: Chapter 14 Wood Preservation (PDF 1.2 MB) Wood Preservatives Preservative Effectiveness Effect…

Where can I find information on mold and mildew of structural wood members?

The USDA Forest Service Wood Handbook pages 17-2 through 17-5 contain material on wood mold and mildew. Publication link: Forest Service Wood Handbook. The Build Green: Wood Can Last for Centuries report explains why wood decays, alerts the homeowner to conditions that can result in decay in buildings, and describes measures to prevent moisture-related damage to wood. Publication link: Build Green:…

What are naturally durable species?

Naturally durable species are those that are naturally resistant to insect damage and moisture or decay. Some of those species include cedar, black locust, and redwood. Also consider using pressure treated wood for such applications where durability is an issue. Check out the USDA Forest Product Lab’s Wood Handbook for more information.

Mention was made that Douglas-Fir has poor penetration of preservatives. What can be done to increase the penetration of preservative treatments in the wood?

Douglas-Fir, along with other refractory species such as Hem-Fir and Spruce-Pine-Fir, are commonly incised in order to allow for additional penetration of the treatment into the wood. Southern Pine, Red Pine, and Ponderosa Pine are exceptions in that they readily accepts treatment chemicals and do not require incising when undergoing preservative treatments.   The following…