Fact Sheet on Wood in Construction = Fiche technique sur le bois dans la construction
W-1818
Location
Vancouver, British Columbia
Language
English
Abstract
Why is construction lumber sometimes discoloured and what does this mean? Many things can colour or stain wood. For example, dirt and iron may leave indelible marks on wood. The heartwood portion of a tree is often darker than the sapwood and may appear to be discoloured. Weathering will usually change the colour of wood. In other cases, wood stains are due to the growth of microscopic organisms, the most common of which are harmless staining fungi. However, other fungi can potentially colonize wood products. Mould in building materials is a popular news topic due to possible health concerns. What are the implications of mould growing on wood? Because Forintek has often been asked to investigate such questions we have prepared this fact sheet to assist buyers and users of wood in understanding the nature of wood discolourations and deciding whether or not action is required.