How Timber works in Old Buildings

About this episode

The episode explores the fundamentals of timber and its significance in historic buildings.

What actually is timber, and why is it such an important material in old buildings?In this first episode of our new Talking Conservation timber series, Rich and Stephen go right back to basics to explain how timber works, where it comes from, and why understanding it is essential before diagnosing any problems in historic buildings.From how trees grow, to the difference between heartwood and sapwood, to how timber is converted and used in buildings, this episode lays the foundation for everything that follows in the series.If you own, work on, or are interested in older buildings, understanding timber at this level will help you make better decisions when it comes to decay, repairs, and long-term performance.🎙️ In this episode, we cover:How trees grow and how timber is formedThe structure of timber (heartwood, sapwood and growth rings)What timber is made of and why it behaves differently to other materialsHow timber is converted from tree to usable building materialWhy timber is found in almost every part of an old buildingHow timber has been used historically (oak, softwood and changing practices)An introduction to dendrochronology and dating buildings using timberChapters00:00…

People in this episode

Hosts: Stephen Boniface, Rich Alesbury

Topics covered

• timber
• historic buildings
• tree growth
• heartwood
• sapwood
• dendrochronology

Keywords

• timber
• historic buildings
• heartwood
• sapwood
• dendrochronology
• tree growth
• building materials

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Talking Conservation

More episodes of Talking Conservation

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• Why Timber Rots in Old Buildings (and how to stop it) · April 24, 2026 · 59 min
• Listed Building Myths that can get you into serious trouble | Part 2 · February 6, 2026 · 59 min
• What CAN you do to a Listed Building? Part 1 · January 30, 2026 · 43 min
• Talking Conservation Turns One – What We’ve Learned & What’s Next · November 1, 2025 · 28 min
• Lime Plaster Ceiling Repair for Old Homes | Decorative Cornice & Moulding Restoration Tips · September 26, 2025 · 50 min