When selecting wood for outdoor applications, it is important to choose the appropriate type of wood based on its intended use. Hardwoods are typically preferred, and there are various types to consider:
…. Some types are suitable for sun and rain exposure.
…. Some types are better suited for sheltered areas.
…. Some are suitable for structural elements.
…. Some are used for boat building.
Choosing the right type of wood for each specific application is essential because each wood has unique characteristics and properties.
For outdoor applications exposed to sun and rain, the key factor is to select wood that can withstand these conditions for many years even when left untreated.
Burmese Ironwood (Xylia Kerrii Craib & Hutch), known as "Mai Deng" in Thai, is an excellent choice for outdoor applications.
Properties of Burmese Ironwood
According to The Royal Thai Forest Department research, Burmese Ironwood has the following properties:
• Wood Characteristics: The wood is reddish to reddish-brown with wavy or irregular grain patterns and is known for its attractive appearance. It has a fine texture and is strong, resilient, and durable. It can be planned and finished smoothly and polished well.
• Strength: 1,305 kg/cm²
• Durability: 10-18 years (The results presented come from wood samples buried in the soil at outdoor test sites across the country, and exposed to sun and rain without any maintenance or preservation treatments.)
Why Burmese Ironwood is Recommended for Outdoor Use?
For outdoor applications such as decking, walkway bridges, poolside flooring, exterior trellises, ceilings, sidings, and fences, those areas are constantly exposed to sun and rain.
Burmese Ironwood is a recommended choice because:
1. Natural Oil Content:
Burmese Ironwood contains natural oils, making the wood inherently moisture-resistant without the need for chemical treatments. This natural resistance helps prevent the wood from becoming brittle or cracking with sun and rain exposure, and it is not susceptible to termites and other pests.
2. Longevity:
Burmese Ironwood has a natural lifespan of over 20 years. According to testing from the Department of Forestry, its natural durability ranges from 10-18 years when exposed to sun and rain without maintenance. However, with proper care and the use of wood preservation products, its appearance and lifespan can be extended even further.
As you can see from historical timber structures in Thailand, such as traditional Thai houses, old government buildings, and ancient temples, often used Burmese Ironwood. They are still in excellent condition as they are well-constructed and maintained properly.
Dealing with Wood Expansion and Contraction
Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in atmospheric conditions. However, there are many techniques to deal with wood movement.
1. Choosing the right wood for your project:
Consider the intended use of your wood (Construction? Ceiling? Decking? Indoor or outdoor use?) to identify the type of wood that is best suited for your project.
2. Designing the installation with proper spacing between wood boards:
It is very important to leave an expansion gap when installing. An expansion gap accommodates these changes and prevents distortion.
3. Selecting the correct timber sizes:
Choosing the correct timber sizes is crucial. Using wood with sufficient thickness not only supports the intended load but also helps reduce warping and twisting.
Standard timber sizes: thicknesses, widths, and lengths
• Decking & Terrace:
• 1 inch x 4,6,8 inches x 200-250 cm.
• 1 inch x 4,6,8 inches x 300-350 cm.
• 1 inch x 4,6,8 inches x 400-450 cm.
• 1 inch x 4,6,8 inches x 500-550 cm.
• 1.5 inches x 4,6,8 inches x 200-250 cm.
• 1.5 inches x 4,6,8 inches x 300-350 cm.
• 1.5 inches x 4,6,8 inches x 400-450 cm.
• 1.5 inches x 4,6,8 inches x 500-550 cm.
• Ceiling:
Tongue and groove ceilings are available in many different styles.
• 0.5 inches x 3,4,6 inches x 200-250 cm.
• 0.5 inches x 3,4,6 inches x 300-350 cm.
• 0.5 inches x 3,4,6 inches x 400-450 cm.
• 0.5 inches x 3,4,6 inches x over 500 cm.
• 0.75 inches x 3,4,6 inches x 200-250 cm.
• 0.75 inches x 3,4,6 inches x 300-350 cm.
• 0.75 inches x 3,4,6 inches x 400-450 cm.
• 0.75 inches x 3,4,6 inches x over 500 cm.
• Indoor flooring:
Hardwood flooring comes in either planks or parquet blocks. The main difference is the size. Planks are typically larger, varying in length and thinner, whereas parquet blocks are smaller, more compact, and uniform in size.
Parquet flooring
• 1 inch x 3 inches x 13 inches
• 1 inch x 4 inches x 14 inches
• 1 inch x 4 inches x 18 inches
• 1 inch x 4 inches x 60 cm.
Standard indoor flooring
• 1 inch x 4,6,8 inches x 100-150 cm.
• 1 inch x 4,6,8 inches x 200-250 cm.
• 1 inch x 4,6,8 inches x 300-350 cm.
• 1 inch x 4,6,8 inches x 400-450 cm.
• Wood Posts:
• 4 inches x 4 inches x 100-500 cm.
• 5 inches x 5 inches x 100-500 cm.
• 6 inches x 6 inches x 100-500 cm.
• 8 inches x 8 inches x 100-500 cm.
• 10 inches x 10 inches x 100-500 cm.
• 12 inches x 12 inches x 100-500 cm.
Woods are used for structural support such as beams, pillars, and rafters.
**** We recommend you consult with your woodworker to figure out how much wood is needed for your project.
