The density of American red oak at 12% moisture content averages around 700 kg/m³. This means that in areas up to and including BAL-19 red oak can be used for window joinery, door frames and the framing surrounding any glazing that is less than 400 mm from an adjacent surface. In areas up to BAL-19, AS 3959 permits any timber with a density of 650 kg/m³ or greater in these locations.

It is surprising that reclaimed timber is not offered in a stress graded condition. Grading rules for recycled timber are available on our website and can be downloaded free of charge via this link https://www.woodsolutions.com.au/system/files/Recycled_Products_Structuralproducts_0.pdf. Span tables can also be downloaded once the grade is known. It will be necessary to know the species of timber before it can be graded, but presumably suppliers can provide this information.

Whether timber would achieve a 1-hour fire rating depends on the size and density of the species of timber. Our Technical Design Guide #06, titled Timber-Framed Construction – Sacrificial Timber Construction Joint, explains how to use timber's charring properties.