Seasoning of timber for use in construction is done essentially to increase strength and durability.

Introduction:
Seasoning of timber refers to the process of drying or reducing the moisture content in the wood before it is used in construction. This process is crucial as it helps to enhance the quality and performance of the timber in various construction applications. Seasoning timber effectively increases its strength and durability, making it suitable for long-lasting structures.

Benefits of Seasoning Timber:

1. Reduced Moisture Content: The primary purpose of seasoning timber is to reduce its moisture content. Freshly cut or green timber contains a high amount of moisture, which can lead to several issues such as shrinkage, warping, and fungal decay. By drying the timber, the moisture content is reduced, minimizing these problems and ensuring dimensional stability.

2. Increased Strength: Seasoning timber significantly enhances its strength properties. The removal of moisture allows the wood fibers to become tightly bound, resulting in improved strength characteristics. Seasoned timber has higher bending, compression, and tensile strength, making it more resistant to loads and stresses imposed during construction.

3. Improved Durability: Seasoning timber helps to increase its durability by making it more resistant to decay, insect attack, and fungal growth. Freshly cut timber is highly susceptible to damage from insects and fungi, which can compromise its structural integrity. By reducing the moisture content through seasoning, the timber becomes less attractive to pests and fungi, thus prolonging its lifespan.

4. Minimized Shrinkage: Green timber tends to shrink as it dries. This shrinkage can cause various problems such as warping, cracking, and distortion in the finished construction. Seasoning timber minimizes such shrinkage, ensuring that the wood retains its original shape and dimensions.

5. Improved Workability: Seasoned timber is easier to work with compared to green timber. It is less prone to splitting, and its improved dimensional stability allows for accurate cutting, shaping, and joining during construction.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the seasoning of timber for use in construction is essential to increase its strength and durability. By reducing the moisture content, seasoned timber exhibits improved strength properties, enhanced durability, minimized shrinkage, and improved workability. These benefits contribute to the longevity and performance of timber in various construction applications.

Seasoning of timber increases strength, durability and stiffness but reduces its self-weight due to the reduction in moisture content.