ASTM D1990, gbsEstablishing Allowable Properties for Visually Graded Dimension Lumber from In-Grade Tests of Full-Size Specimens,gcs is the consensus standard used to make submissions of allowable properties for many U.S., Canadian, and foreign species to the Board of Review of the American Lumber Standards Committee. Recently, it has become apparent how difficult it is to perform the calculations for such a submission. Some calculations are clearly specified in the standard; in some cases the standard merely indicates a need to make an adjustment but does not specify how to do so. This report discusses in detail how to develop allowable properties under the standard in a manner that is consistent with current practice. Many calculations in the standard are difficult and errors are easily made, particularly when using a spreadsheet; this report introduces a set of computer programs that perform some of the difficult calculations, thereby reducing the potential for errors. These computer programs can be run over the World Wide Web, or Fortran versions of the programs can be downloaded, compiled, and run on a usergass computer.

This paper documents the development of procedures in American Society for Testing and Materials standards for adjusting the allowable properties of lumber for changes in moisture content. The paper discusses the historical context of efforts to establish allowable properties on a consensus basis, beginning in the 19th century. Where possible, the reasons for proposed changes in the standards are presented. The goal of this work is to foster a better understanding of how current standards have evolved and to promote reconciliation of conflicting property assignment procedures between current standards.