1. European Oak Oak is very strong, heavy, tough and durable. It has a good finish but contains tannic acid which corrodes iron and steel. Can you name some of its uses? Front doors, boat building, furniture, garden posts and veneer.

2. Beech Beech is very hard, tough and strong. It has a close grain, polishes well and withstands shocks and wear. Can you name some of its uses? Kitchen tops, furniture and toys.

3. Scots Pine (softwood) Scots pine is durable, fairly strong, easy to work, but knotty. It is a cream to pale reddish brown colour and is one of the cheapest and most readily available timbers. Can you name some of its uses? Mainly in construction work

4. Teak (hardwood) Teak is durable, strong and hard. Teak has a natural resistance to moisture, fire, acids and alkalis. This is because it contains natural oils. Can you name some of its uses? Quality garden furniture and boat building.

5. Ash (hardwood) Ash is tough, flexible and has good elastic qualities. It also has a good finish. Can you name some of its uses? Tool handles, sports equipment and ladders.