The use classes according to DIN 1995-1-1 for timber components are essentially used to assign strength characteristics and are defined for the preparation of the stability certificate (statics). The usage classes are defined according to the climatic conditions to which the wooden elements will be exposed in later use.
- Usage class 1: applies to a wood moisture content that corresponds to an air temperature of 20° and a relative humidity of 65% only for a period of a few weeks. For most conifers, this corresponds to an average moisture content of approx. 5 – 15 %. Usage class 1 is mainly used in closed and heated rooms.
- Usage class 2: applies to wood moisture that corresponds to an air temperature of 20° and a relative humidity of 85% only for a period of a few weeks. For most softwoods, this corresponds to an average moisture content of approx. 10 – 20 %. Usage class 2 is mainly used in open and covered areas.
- Usage class 3: applies to wood moisture that is higher than usage classes 1 and 2.
Source: bauwion
