Experimental Investigation on the Material Properties of Historical Chestnut and Elm Structural Timbers

Aim of study: This study aims to experimentally investigate the changes in the physical and mechanical properties of wood elements from two tree species, used as load-bearing structures 150 years ago and exposed to similar environmental conditions, due to natural aging over time. Area of study: A historical wooden building in rural Giresun, Türkiye, was selected. Material and method: Species identification tests were performed on the samples, followed by density, hardness, bending, and compression tests according to relevant standards. Main results: In this study, chestnut and elm wood samples exposed to identical physical conditions and comparable biological degradation were examined. The experimental findings revealed that the reductions in compressive and bending strengths were nearly equivalent for both species. For comparative purposes, data from sound chestnut and elm wood collected from the same region were employed as the control group. Research highlights: It is evident that chestnut and elm species are frequently used together in registered and protected structures in the region, and that elm, in particular, occurs in small groups within Turkish forests and is regarded as a valuable wood species. Since chestnut exhibits mechanical properties similar to those of elm as a result of natural aging, it is proposed that chestnut may be used as a substitute for elm in regional restoration practices when necessary.