IS 287:1993 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for design of timber structures. This standard provides recommendations for the maximum permissible moisture content of timber based on its end-use (e.g., structural, joinery, furniture) and the climatic zone in India where it will be used. Engineers and architects use this to specify timber drying/seasoning requirements to prevent shrinkage, warping, and fungal decay.
Provided guidelines for the structural design of timber members in buildings, including allowable stresses and design considerations.
Overview
- Status
- Superseded — superseded by IS 287:2022
- Usage level
- Specialized
- Domain
- Materials Science — Timber and Wood
- Type
- Guidelines
Also on InfraLens for IS 287
Practical Notes
! India is divided into four climatic zones (Zone I to Zone IV) based on average annual relative humidity. You must know your project's zone to specify the correct moisture content.
! Moisture content should be checked at the time of fabrication or installation, not just at the time of delivery to the site.
! Thicker sections of timber (>50mm) are generally permitted slightly higher moisture content than thin joinery sections.
Frequently referenced clauses
timberwood
International Equivalents
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International Comparison — Coming Soon
We're adding equivalent international standards for this code.
Key Values6
Quick Reference Values
Zone I (Dry) Relative Humidity< 40%
Zone IV (Damp) Relative Humidity> 67%
Structural timber moisture limit (Zone I)12%
Structural timber moisture limit (Zone II)14%
Doors and windows moisture limit (Zone II)12%
Furniture moisture limit (Zone II)10%
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Recommended Maximum Moisture Content for Different Uses of Timber
Table 2 - Climatic Zones of India
Key Clauses
Clause 4 - Climatic Zones
Clause 5 - Recommended Moisture Content
Clause 6 - Method of Determination of Moisture Content
Frequently Asked Questions3
How many climatic zones are defined for timber moisture?+
Four zones (Zone I to IV) based on the region's average annual relative humidity (Table 2).
What is the recommended moisture content for structural timber in a moderate zone?+
14% for Zone II (Table 1).
What is the moisture content limit for doors and windows in coastal/damp areas?+
16% for Zone IV (Table 1).
QA/QC Inspection Templates
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QA/QC templates coming soon for this code.