There are many disadvantages of using wood in building construction. Some disadvantages to wood are related to the natural growth of a tree and include, wood is never dimensionally true. Weather conditions can affect the size and shape of wood. Wood does not shrink or swell uniformly. Intrinsic defects include knots, knotholes, decay, insect damage, splits and warping. Wood strength varies significantly with species, grade, age, and growth rate of the tree. Wood strength changes over time after components are placed in use. During a recent call I had on shift we had a collapse of a ceiling that was over top of a walkway. Upon investigating we found that the joists, rafters and truss assembly had sustained significant termite damage. This termite damage in the wood made the joists weak and specifically weakened the wood where the nails holding the wire lathing for the plaster connected, which was the cause of the ceiling collapse.

I agree that wood has many disadvantages in construction, including its tendency to warp, swell, or shrink due to moisture and its natural defects like knots, splits, and insect damage. That is unfortunate scenario that you described DE Ed Shadoin, because of the collapsing of the building’s roof overhead. Especially with the older homes in South Florida, keeping a keen eye on the construction and the sound the building is making while fighting fire, search and rescue, and salvage & overhaul are very important for the safety of the crew.