This handbook details the scientific and practical methods for preserving wood against decay and infestation as understood in the early 20th century. The American Wood Preservers Association, through this 1916 publication, aimed to consolidate and disseminate knowledge crucial for extending the lifespan of timber in various applications, from construction to infrastructure. It likely covers the chemical treatments, physical processes, and biological factors influencing wood degradation, presenting findings and recommendations based on the era's research and industrial practices.

This facsimile reprint of a 1916 handbook offers a historical perspective on wood preservation. The publisher notes its cultural importance and aims to make it accessible, acknowledging potential imperfections due to age. The content likely reflects the scientific understanding and industrial practices of the early 20th century, providing valuable insights for historians of technology and forestry. Its value lies in its historical documentation of a specific period's approach to a critical industrial process.