Timber defects and features — identification of waney edge In sawn timber, the visible remnant of the original rounded tree surface on a manufactured piece is called:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Wane (waney edge)

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Recognizing surface features and defects in timber helps in grading, pricing, and specifying wood for structural or finish applications. A common feature is the presence of the original rounded tree surface on an edge or corner after sawing.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The piece has an unplaned, rounded, bark-adjacent edge or surface remnant.
  • The term sought is a standard timber trade term.
  • The alternatives include other surface defects unrelated to the original tree curvature.



Concept / Approach:
When a log is converted to boards, outer pieces may retain part of the curved surface; this is termed wane or waney edge. It reduces the full rectangular cross-section and may be unacceptable in structural members where full bearing or planeness is required.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify cue: presence of rounded, natural surface on an otherwise sawn piece.Match with terminology: wane/waney edge.Exclude other defects: torn grain (machining tear-out), diagonal grain (grain not parallel to edge), chip marks (tooling marks).



Verification / Alternative check:
Grading rules in lumber standards classify wane and specify allowable limits for structural grades.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Torn grain is a machining defect from planing; diagonal grain is a grain orientation issue; chip marks are minor machining blemishes; honeycombing is internal checking, not an outer rounded surface.



Common Pitfalls:
Accepting excessive wane in load-bearing edges; painting over waney edges without proper trimming; confusing bark inclusions with simple wane.



Final Answer:
Wane (waney edge)

More Questions from Building Materials

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion