What is a significant disadvantage of using engineered wood in construction?

Engineered wood, while offering various advantages such as sustainability and versatility, has a significant disadvantage in regard to its susceptibility to fire. Engineered wood products, such as plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), and laminated veneer lumber, are often made from multiple layers of wood fibers or strands bonded together with adhesives. While these materials can be engineered for structural integrity, the adhesives used in their construction may not withstand high temperatures as effectively as solid wood.

When exposed to fire, engineered wood can ignite more quickly compared to traditional solid wood. Additionally, the presence of adhesives can lead to the rapid propagation of flames and smoke, potentially compromising both the structure and safety of occupants more quickly than might happen with solid wood. This characteristic necessitates additional fire safety considerations and often mandates the use of protective measures like fire retardant treatments or coatings when using engineered wood in construction.

In contrast, options mentioning increased cost, strength reduction over time, and lower insulation value do represent factors that may affect the decision to use engineered wood, but they do not carry the same level of immediate risk to life and safety as fire susceptibility.