Decay of wood buildings in BC is hardly a new problem. In 1945, H.W. Eades of the Western Forest Products Laboratory (now Forintek) wrote: "In the coastal region of British Columbia, much preventable loss results from decay in wooden structures, particularly in and around residences. Common causes are faulty ventilation, exposure of wood parts to moisture and contact of these with the ground. The best method of prevention lies in proper design and construction, with factors which induce decay borne in mind." (14) Improvements to design and construction are the province of architects, engineers, building scientists, and construction trades. However, these professions have not always had ready access to knowledge of the factors which induce decay. This document seeks to provide the essential basic knowledge and to direct the reader to appropriate reference works for more detailed information.

• biodeterioration
• wood frame houses and walls, wood structure

1. Criteria for unacceptable damage on wood systems
2. Designing for durable wood construction: the 4 Ds
3. Evaluation of vapour diffusion ports on drying of wood-frame walls under controlled conditions
4. Limiting conditions for decay in wood systems
5. The influence of design on drying rates in wood-frame walls under controlled conditions