Which of the following is not an objective of seasoning timber?
- AReduction in shrinkage and warping
- BReduction of weight
- CIncrease in strength and durability
- DReduction of natural defects in timberCorrect
Solution
Concept
Objectives and limitations of timber seasoning
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. Seasoning of timber involves removing moisture and sap under controlled conditions to improve performance. 2. It reduces weight, minimizes shrinking/warping, and increases mechanical strength and durability against decay. 3. Natural defects like knots and shakes occur during tree growth and cannot be reduced or eliminated by seasoning. Answer: D
Explanation
Seasoning is the process of drying timber to remove excess moisture content under controlled conditions. Drying timber reduces its weight, increases its mechanical strength, and minimizes post-installation warping and shrinkage. However, natural defects such as knots or shakes originate during tree growth and cannot be reduced by seasoning.
Why the other options are wrong
A) Reduction in shrinkage and warping is a primary objective of seasoning timber. B) Reduction of weight by removing moisture is a major purpose of seasoning. C) Increasing strength and durability is a direct benefit of seasoning timber.
Shortcut
Seasoning reduces moisture and weight, but cannot fix or reduce natural defects in timber.
Common mistake
Believing that seasoning can reduce natural defects created during tree growth rather than preventing moisture-related defects.
Correct answer: D) Reduction of natural defects in timber