Timber or Wood?

[Robert216]

I have a question concerning framing terminology. I believe, but need verification that "timber framing" refers to heavy TIMBER (members at least 5"x5" per NDS) framing and wood framing refers to traditional "2x" framing. I don't dnow why, but when I here 2x wood called out as timber and these terms are used interchangeably, it irritates me like when I here cement instead of concrete. More importantly, I would like to properly denote framing types on specifications. Does anyone have a source that properly defines each? If timber is the more proper term, I'll just have to get used to "timber studs". Thanks, Rob

 

[RARWOOD]

At one time I worked for a lumber trade association and presented educational seminars all over the US. One thing you learn is that different terminology is used in different areas of the country. A simple example is the term rim joist. In some areas the common term.

I would not worry about the terminology used in the field. for your specifications I would follow the NDS. Use dimension lumber for material 2"-4" in nominal thickness & 2" and wider in width. Timbers for 5x5 and larger.

The term heavy timber is used for both large solid sawn members and glulams. Timber Framing refers to framing using traditional mortise and tendon joints although as you found out it also is used generically to describe wood construction.

 

[RARWOOD]

The other common term is band joist. I hit submit by mistake instead of edit.

 

[Dinosaur]

I think the designations are these:

Boards = one dimension 1" nominal or less
lumber = not as thick as timber but more than boards
Timber = one dimension 5" nominal or more
Glulams and other stuff are manufactured wood products

I have the same problem about concrete and cement. I work with concrete often in my job.

I also have fun with soils designations:
Clay = finest particles
Silt = particles that pass a #200 sieve
Sand = particles that pass a 1/4 inch sieve
Gravel = particles that pass a 3" sieve
Cobbles = particles that pass 12" (or something quite large)
Boulders = bigger than cobbles

 

[apsix]

Down here (Australia) we build with timber and we burn wood.