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Merits of timber over steel

Short answer

Timber is lighter, easier to work and repair, and often cheaper than steel. It provides good thermal and electrical insulation, does not corrode, absorbs shock and sound, and is renewable. In fire, a large timber section chars slowly while steel loses strength rapidly.

What are the merits of timber over steel in civil engineering construction works?

Merits of timber over steel:

  1. Light weight, so it is easy to handle, transport and erect.
  2. Easy to work with simple tools (cut, nail, join), and easy to repair or modify.
  3. Cheaper in initial cost in many regions, and locally available (as in Nepal).
  4. Good thermal and electrical insulation: it is a poor conductor, so buildings are more comfortable.
  5. Does not corrode, and resists many chemicals and acid fumes.
  6. Good shock and sound absorption, and an attractive natural appearance.
  7. Renewable; also, in a fire a large timber section chars on the surface and keeps a sound core, so it holds its strength for some time, whereas steel loses strength quickly when heated.

✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)

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