From last few years, we generally see bricks, concrete, steel etc. as the basic construction materials for the Indian architectural context. But in this modern era, somehow we all have forget about the sustainable building materials through which we can help to save and maintain the nature for us and for our future generations as well. Their are many sustainable building materials which are available for the construction.   

Wood or timber is one of the sustainable material which can be used for building construction. Yes, I agree that we can not go for multistoried or high rise buildings with the support of timber since it can not be able to manage the load on the structure. But timber can be used for different purposes like for exterior aesthetic uses, furniture manufacturing, decorative cladding etc.  

In the hilly sites of many countries, we can clearly observe the buildings which are constructed with timber and especially the sloped roofs. Timber is also helps us to maintain the thermal comfort of the space as well. So let's have a look on the different types of wood which can be utilized for building construction. 

1. Bamboo

Bamboo is a fast growing tree which is available in different colors of green and yellow depending upon the place of growth. It can be easily renewable and we can say this tree as a sustainable building construction material. 

    2. Cedar

Cedar is a high quality wood. Because of it's beautiful finishing, this wood can be extensively used for exterior purpose. For example, cedar wood can be used for landscape, park, furniture etc. This wood is light in weight and durable also. 

    3. Mahogany

Mahogany can be used for the development of furniture. The best quality of this wood is that it resist termites. 

    4. Oak 

Oak is the oldest tree used for construction industry. This wood is extremely stable and durable. Due to it's aesthetic values, this wood can be used for cladding also.  

    5. Walnut

Walnut is one of the most popular kind of timber used as the building construction material. Walnut wood is mostly used for the aesthetic purposes. On this type of wood, the carving can be easily done. It has fine texture with low stiffness. 

    6. Cherry

This timber have fine and smooth texture. It shows low stiffness. It can be used for the construction of furniture and musical instrument. This kind of timber is sensitive to UV.