I was just wondering what are the advantages of using a boxed heart timber versus a FOHC timber? Is the difference solely in appearance or is there added strength or susceptibility to checking etc. Thanks.

R&D,

I'm no expert but Steve Chappells book (Timber Framer's Workshop page 148) covers this to some degree. You will find some distortion (nothing major)as the timbers dry with the boxed heart as well as some checking 4 sides (depending on the species of wood and the types of wood fiber) Both are very good although it's harder to find "Free of Heart" in any real size (unless you're out west).

Hope this helps.

Dan

I suggest free of heart wood when it is possible. It shrinks diferently - less tendency to check.

However, all formulas in codes remain same for both free of heart and boxed heart. Codes are made regardless heart, checks, and local inhomogenities (knots). Thats why you apply shape,moisture,... adjusting factors.

Michal

Good practice demands always ordering FOHC for scantlings 5 X 5 or under