BU526 Specifying timber (2010)

This bulletin outlines the parameters for selecting timber for building, including an appreciation of the requirements of the relevant New Zealand standards. These standards ensure that materials used are able to achieve and maintain minimum standards of durability, safety and health for building occupants for the expected life of the building.

This bulletin replaces Bulletin 451 of the same name.

The bulletin covers:

• applicable standards
• choice of timber
• timber grading
• durability
• identifying timber treatment
• timber characteristics
• moisture content and shrinkage, including moisture levels of timber in use and pre-finished overlays over damp substrates.