ABSTRACT
The chapter covers one of the oldest and most important construction materials timber. It deals with the cell structures of hardwoods and softwoods and also explains how they are formed during the growth process. The shape and distribution of the cells leads to the anisotropy of timber and the non-uniform strength properties and dimensional response to changes in moisture content and humidity. The chapter focuses on seasoning and conversion of timber and the manufacture of timber products and discusses how the use of timber might contribute to a more sustainable future for the construction industry. Timber can swell in damp weather and shrinks in dry weather, and this swelling and shrinkage is called moisture movement. Timber industry has increasingly developed products that obviate variability and its effects. In energy-conscious world every building need to be well-insulated against heat loss and timber proves to be an excellent material.
