Compression

Compression refers to the action of pushing or squeezing a material, reducing its size or volume. In timber, compression parallel to the grain provides the highest strength, as the fibers are aligned with the force. On the other hand, compression perpendicular to the grain significantly weakens the element, as the fibers offer much less resistance.

Understanding the grain direction is critical when designing timber elements subjected to compressive forces, such as columns or load-bearing walls.