Wood for house construction – care and treatment

Due to the benefits, lower costs, but also versatility, wooden houses are a preferred option of many people. However, not every wood is suitable for building a house.

Construction wood requires special care, being a natural material, which can suffer from temperature changes, rainfall, insects and rodents, but also the passage of time. However, if the construction material is treated properly and substances are applied that have the role of increasing the lifespan, wooden houses can easily last for decades.
In this material we present some basic treatments that are generally applied to construction wood.

1. Waterproofing is the treatment that keeps moisture away and protects wood from rotting. This is done by applying linseed oil, walnut oil, or other mineral oils.

2. Fireproofing – helps protect the building from fires. It can be applied by brushing, spraying or immersion. Wood treated in this way is not immune to fire, but it increases fire resistance and decreases the speed of flame spread.

3. Treatment gainst insects – usually done by the manufacturer by heating the wood or steaming it. Primer treatment also helps to protect against insects, but also to strengthen it.

4. Antiseptic treatment has to be applied against fungi and sponges that can affect the wood.

5. Stain application – Stain is a transparent substance used to treat wood, but it is also used to highlight wood fibers. The stain may contain fungicides and insecticides and provides protection from the weather.

6. Protection against ultraviolet radiation and chemical pollutants. The sunlight and the ultraviolet radiation it emits lead to the weakening and discoloration of the wood, creating a favorable environment for insects, but also for the appearance of mold or other microorganisms.

Wind and dust are other factors that affect the quality of wood over time, so it must be protected by painting and varnishing. Painting is the most effective method of protection in case of an aggressive environment, and varnishing protects the wood and gives it a fresh look.
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