Title

लकड़ी के खंभे (Timber Posts)

Rare

Lakaṛī ke Khambhe

Timber Posts

4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
DescriptionTimber posts (काष्ठ स्तंभ - Kāṣṭha Stambha), crucial in Indic architecture, utilize seasoned hardwoods like teak (सागौन - Sāgaun) and sal (साल - Sāl) [1]. Density ranges from 600-900 kg/m³, compressive strength 40-70 MPa, varying with species and seasoning [2]. Traditional sources included forests across the subcontinent, supplying *imāratī lakaṛī* (इमारती लकड़ी - construction timber). Processing involved felling, seasoning (air or kiln drying to 12-18% moisture), and shaping. Historically, these posts provided structural support in roofs, floors, verandas, and halls, evident in structures from ancient to early modern periods, across dynasties. Durability depends on species and treatment (e.g., oiling). Conservation necessitates assessing wood decay (biological and environmental), employing compatible consolidants, and ensuring proper ventilation. Restoration often involves replacing deteriorated sections with similar species and employing traditional joinery techniques. *Maraththoonkal* (மரத்தூண்கள்), *Chekka stambhalu* (చెక్క స్తంభాలు), *Marada kambagalu* (ಮರದ ಕಂಬಗಳು) are regional terms [3].
Also Known As
Timber Posts
Lakaṛī ke Khambhe
Timber Posts
Wooden Posts
Wood Columns
Structural Timber Posts
काष्ठ स्तंभ
लकड़ी के खंभे
ठोस लकड़ी के खंभे
इमारती लकड़ी के खंभे
மரத்தூண்கள் (Maraththoonkal)
చెక్క స్తంభాలు (Chekka stambhalu)
ಮರದ ಕಂಬಗಳು (Marada kambagalu)
Tags
Timber
Wood
Posts
Columns
Kāshtha
Sāgaun
Sāl
Structural Timber
Material ID
INHFMAT-731260005-20-11-25-LE
URIhttps://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/timber-posts
API Endpoint
https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/timber-posts
Total Sites1
Primary Sites0
CreatedNovember 20, 2025
Last UpdatedNovember 28, 2025

External References

Material Types

Types
Wood
Timber
Hardwood
Softwood

Regions

Regions
Kerala
Karnataka
Maharashtra

Historical Context

Time Periods
Ancient
Medieval
Early Modern
Modern
Dynasties
Various

Geographic Sources

Sources
Forests
Timber mills

Properties

Properties
Density: 600-900 kg/m³ (depending on species)
Compressive strength: 40-70 MPa (depending on species)
Moisture content: 12-18%
Modulus of elasticity: 10-15 GPa (depending on species)
Durability varies with species and treatment

Common Uses

Uses
Structural support for roofs and floors
Columnar support in verandas and halls
Decorative elements in facades and interiors
Foundation posts (with appropriate treatment)

Related Materials

Materials
Lime Mortar
Iron
Stone
Brick

Related Styles

Styles
Kerala architecture
Vernacular architecture
Temple architecture

Related Categories

Categories
Temple
Residential buildings

Conservation Notes

Notes
  • Susceptible to termite attack; requires regular inspection and treatment
  • Vulnerable to fungal decay; ensure proper ventilation and drainage
  • Protect from prolonged exposure to moisture
  • Use appropriate wood preservatives

Recommended Sources

TitleTypeNotes
Handbook on Wood PreservationTechnical GuideWood preservation techniques

Heritage Sites (1)

Site NameStatusUsageConfidence
Brisbane Sri Selva Vinayakar Koil South Maclean
Secondary
Roof100%

Frequently Asked Questions