In the world of construction and furniture, wood is often chosen for its natural beauty. However, behind its appearance, there is one technical factor that is often overlooked, even though it greatly determines the strength of a building, namely wood density. This figure is not just technical data, but a determinant of whether wood can withstand loads or will quickly develop problems.
Interestingly, many construction failures stem from a misunderstanding of the characteristics of wood itself. By understanding its specific gravity, you can determine which wood is truly suitable for use, which should be avoided, and how to choose the right one from the start. So, let’s explore this topic thoroughly to avoid making the wrong choice for your project!
What is Wood Specific Gravity?
Simply put, wood specific gravity is the ratio between the mass of wood and the volume it occupies, usually expressed in kg/m³ or grams/cm³. The higher the specific gravity value, the denser and heavier the wood is for the same volume.
In practice, this gives an idea of the density of the wood after the water content has been reduced, for example after the drying process, so that only the solid structure and air remain.
Why Is This Important?
The specific gravity value is directly related to the performance of wood when used in construction and furniture. Here are the reasons why it is a factor that should not be ignored.
1. Determining the Mechanical Strength of Wood
One of the main reasons specific gravity is an indicator of quality is its relationship to the mechanical strength of wood. Wood with a high specific gravity generally has better flexural, compressive, and tensile strength, making it suitable for structural elements that bear heavy loads such as beams, posts, or roof trusses.
Wood strength classes in construction standards are often associated with specific gravity values, meaning that wood with a high specific gravity is classified as stronger, while lighter wood is less recommended for heavy load structures.
2. Affecting Resistance to Deformation
Wood with a high specific gravity is usually more resistant to deformation or change in shape when subjected to long-term loads. This is very important for components that face constant pressure, such as wooden floors or vertical columns. Wood that is too light and porous can warp or crack more quickly.
3. Correlation with Resistance to Environmental Damage
In addition to structural strength, specific gravity also has an indirect relationship with wood’s resistance to attacks by organisms such as fungi or termites. Dense, high-quality wood tends to be more resistant to microorganism infiltration, although technical treatments such as kiln drying or preservation also determine actual performance.
4. Planning and Aesthetics
In the manufacture of furniture or interior elements, understanding the specific gravity of wood helps designers determine the right material for function and appearance. Dense wood generally gives a solid and premium impression, while light wood can be suitable for decorative details or furniture that is often moved around.
Specific Gravity Values in Quality Classification
Wood quality can be classified based on its specific gravity value. This grouping helps determine the character, strength, and suitability of wood for various construction and furniture needs. How is it classified?
- Light (<0.60 g/cm³)
Suitable for non-structural elements or lightweight furniture.
- Medium (0.60–0.75 g/cm³)
Widely used for lightweight buildings and decorations.
- Heavy (>0.75 g/cm³)
Ideal for main structural elements.
However, keep in mind! This is only a general guide; actual values and applications may vary depending on the type of wood, drying quality, and the construction purpose itself.
Therefore, understanding wood density is not just about knowing the technical figures, but also helps in selecting the right material for construction or furniture projects that are strong, durable, and budget-friendly. Wood with the appropriate density value will make the structure more efficient, safer, and also provide the right aesthetic appeal.
Well, you can get quality wood for home construction, furniture, or interior projects at Hojaya! We provide various types of wood and plywood that have undergone a thorough drying process so that their performance meets construction standards. Some of our flagship products are Kalimantan Meranti Wood, which is strong for various structural applications, and Dolken Gelam, which is often used for foundations and construction scaffolding. Additionally, we offer premium plywood options like Albasiah Palem and BBCC Export, suitable for both construction and creative interior applications.
In summary, take the time to understand the density of the wood before selecting your material. And if you need high-quality wood supplies with professional service, check out Hojaya’s official website collection to maximize your project’s potential!