Effects of geographical directions and climatological parameters on natural weathering of fir wood

Discoloration, roughness and wettability of fir wood were studied during the natural weathering in different geographical directions with considering climatological factors. Climatological data such as sunlight, temperature and relative humidity were collected by a HOBO-Data Logger. Slats of fir wood in sizes of 20 x 10 x 2 cm were cut and hanged in right angles at different geographical directions (SE, SW, NE and NW). Samples were exposed to climatological factors for 120 days period. Color changes of the samples as well as contact angle and roughness were determined on samples' surfaces during the exposure period. Regarding the results, there were daily fluctuations for temperature and relative humidity as well as sunlight intensity. Results also revealed changes for the determined parameters in the slats. Samples exposed to SE direction showed major changes in color, roughness and hydrophobicity. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.