Topic outline

  • The Biodeterioration of Wood

    Credits: 2 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    Under proper conditions, wood will provide centuries of service. However, under conditions that permit the development of wood-degrading organisms, protection must be provided during processing, merchandising, and use. The organisms that can degrade wood are principally fungi, insects, bacteria, and marine borers. Molds, most sapwood stains, and decay are caused by fungi, which are microscopic, thread-like microorganisms that require organic material to live.

    Chemical stains, although they are not caused by organisms, are mentioned in this course, as they resemble the stains caused by fungi. Insects also may damage wood and in many situations must be taken into consideration when applying protective measures. Termites are the major insect enemy of wood, but on a national scale, they are a less serious threat than fungi. Bacteria in wood ordinarily are of little consequence, but some may make the wood excessively absorptive.

    Topics:

    • Fungus Damage and Control
    • Molds and Fungal Stains
    • Chemical Stains
    • Decay
    • Prevention of Mold, Stain, and Decay
    • Bacteria
    • Insect Damage and Control 14–9
    • Beetles, Termites, Carpenter Ants and Bees
    • Marine Borer Damage and Control
    • Shipworms
    • Pholads
    • Limnoria and Sphaeroma
    • Protection from Marine Borers

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
         NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.

    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for engineering professionals whose job description may require a general knowledge of the biodeterioration of wood and wood products.
    Publication Source: US Forestry Service, Wood Handbook, Chapter 14, April 2010 Edition

    D. Allen Hughes, PE

    • Topic 1