Simplified environmental analysis of the long-term performance of wood cladding and decking

• The performance of timber in exposed environments is affected by several biotic and abiotic factors. For timber cladding and decking, two important aspects include reduced structural performance due to fungal decay and aesthetical changes resulting from superficial effects such as photodegradation and moulds. Predicting the long-term performance of timber is important because it enables rational material (species and treatment) and design (detailing) choices and reduce the risks of unexpected repairs and premature replacement of timber products. In this paper, we use available data on material performance in conjunction with environmental analysis to model, in a simplified way, (1) the time until onset of fungal decay and (2) the long-term aesthetical appearance of timber facades and decking. The results demonstrate how the analysis canbe used on a detailed geometry where wooden boards were modelled as separate objects and the choice of material affects the outcome. Several steps needing further development were identified, including a dose model linking microclimate to colour change and a better model for predicting moisture content. The study is part of a long-term effort to make holistic performance-based assessment of wood available for public use through easy-to-use procedures and accessible open-source software.

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Samhällsbyggnadsteknik -- Husbyggnad (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Civil Engineering -- Building Technologies (hsv//eng)

LANTBRUKSVETENSKAPER  -- Lantbruksvetenskap, skogsbruk och fiske -- Trävetenskap (hsv//swe)

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES  -- Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries -- Wood Science (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Aesthetics

Durability

Fungal decay

Long-term performance

Material database

Wood

Publication and Content Type

kon (subject category)

ref (subject category)