In this paper is briefly described the present approach to service life prediction as an essential part of the architectural engineering process. The system of testing the durability of wood is described more in detail including laboratory tests as well as field trials. It is concluded that the system has a lot of weaknesses which makes it less well suited for practical building applications. A leading theme in the criticism is that the test and classification systems are based on the requirements of the wood and preservation industry rather than those of the end-user. Finally a proposal is given for a working group to deal with this issue.

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