Which of the following is NOT listed as a common defect found in standing timber?

Which of the following is NOT listed as a common defect found in standing timber?

• A. Forks
• B. Holes
• C. Knots
• D. Cracking

Answer: (D)

Cracking is not typically considered a common defect found in standing timber. The defects you’re most likely to encounter on standing trees are forks, holes, and knots. Forks occur when the trunk splits into two leaders, which affects straightness and log quality. Holes usually indicate insect activity or other damage inside the bole, weakening the timber. Knots form where branches were attached; they create hard, dense spots that disrupt uniform grain. Cracking, on the other hand, tends to develop during drying or seasoning after the timber is felled, not while it’s still standing, so it isn’t listed as a common standing-timber defect.

Cracking is not typically considered a common defect found in standing timber. The defects you’re most likely to encounter on standing trees are forks, holes, and knots. Forks occur when the trunk splits into two leaders, which affects straightness and log quality. Holes usually indicate insect activity or other damage inside the bole, weakening the timber. Knots form where branches were attached; they create hard, dense spots that disrupt uniform grain. Cracking, on the other hand, tends to develop during drying or seasoning after the timber is felled, not while it’s still standing, so it isn’t listed as a common standing-timber defect.