Design Considerations of Wood Frame Structures for Permanence

When properly designed, wood frame structures will resist damage by moisture and living organisms. Recommendations for control of moisture and protection against decay and insect infestations are contained in AWC™s Design of Wood Frame Structures for Permanence, WCD No. 6. Protection of wood frame structures to provide maximum service-life involves four methods of control, which can be handled by proper design and construction: (1) control moisture content of wood, (2) provide effective termite controls, (3) use of durable materials such as naturally durable or preservative treated wood, and (4) quality assurance.