Question 1

What is the difference between hardwood and softwood?

Accepted Answer

Hardwoods come from deciduous trees that lose their leaves annually, such as oak, beech, and mahogany. They generally have a slower growth rate, making them denser, harder, and more expensive. Softwoods come from coniferous trees like pine, spruce, and cedar, which are evergreen and grow faster, resulting in lighter, less dense wood that is cheaper and easier to work. However, there are exceptions: balsa is a hardwood but very soft, while yew is a softwood but hard and durable.

Question 2

Which manufactured board is best for shelving?

Accepted Answer

For shelving, MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) is often preferred because it has a smooth, uniform surface that takes paint well and can be machined without splintering. However, it is heavy and can sag under heavy loads if not supported. Plywood is stronger and more rigid, making it better for heavy-duty shelves, but it has a visible grain pattern. Chipboard is cheaper but less durable and prone to moisture damage. The best choice depends on the load, appearance, and budget.

Question 3

How does the grain of timber affect its working properties?

Accepted Answer

Grain refers to the direction and pattern of wood fibres. Straight-grained timber (e.g., pine) is easier to plane, saw, and chisel without tearing. Interlocked or wavy grain (e.g., mahogany) can cause tear-out during machining and requires sharp tools. Grain direction also affects strength: wood is strongest parallel to the grain and weakest perpendicular. When joining, you should avoid nailing or screwing too close to the end grain to prevent splitting.

Question 4

What does FSC certification mean for timber?

Accepted Answer

FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification indicates that the timber has been sourced from forests managed sustainably, ensuring biodiversity, protecting indigenous rights, and maintaining economic viability. Choosing FSC-certified timber helps reduce deforestation and supports responsible forestry. In exams, mentioning FSC shows awareness of ethical sourcing and can earn marks for evaluating environmental impact.

Question 5

Why is plywood stronger than solid wood in some applications?

Accepted Answer

Plywood is made by gluing together thin layers (veneers) of wood with the grain of each layer perpendicular to the next. This cross-lamination distributes strength evenly in both directions, reducing the risk of splitting and making plywood more dimensionally stable than solid wood. It also resists warping and shrinking due to moisture changes. This makes plywood ideal for flat panels, furniture, and construction where uniform strength is needed.

Question 6

What is the ecological footprint of using tropical hardwoods?

Accepted Answer

Tropical hardwoods like mahogany and teak are often harvested from rainforests, leading to deforestation, habitat loss, and carbon emissions. Their long transport distances increase the carbon footprint. However, if sourced from certified sustainable plantations, the impact can be reduced. Students should consider using alternatives like oak (temperate hardwood) or manufactured boards, or specify reclaimed timber to minimise ecological harm.

Timbers: The sources, origins, physical and working properties of each natural and manufactured timber and their social and ecological footprint

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