A Perceptional Comparison of Wood in Separate Infrastructure Markets

Authors

  • Robert L. Smith
  • Warren E. Spradlin
  • Delton R. Alderman
  • Edward Cesa

Keywords:

Perceptions, wood, infrastructure materials, material attributes

Abstract

Perceptions of wood as an infrastructure material were investigated within four distinct market segments and within five geographic regions of the United States. Wood was compared to steel, reinforced and prestressed concrete, aluminum, and plastic on six predetermined factor groups and by thirty material attributes. The foremost factors in material choice decisions were durability, maintenance, and cost. All infrastructure groups rated wood lower in overall material performance as compared to prestressed and reinforced concrete, steel, and aluminum. Only plastic was rated lower than wood in perceived material performance.

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Published

2007-06-19

Issue

Number 2 / April 2000

Section

Research Contributions

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