Question 1

How do I identify timber species from a photo?

Accepted Answer

Inspector Wood uses AI to identify timber from a photograph. Simply take a photo of the face grain and end grain of your wood sample, upload it to the app, and the AI analyses pore structure, grain patterns, and colour to identify the timber species in seconds.

Question 2

Can AI identify wood from a photo?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Inspector Wood's AI analyses face grain and end grain images to identify wood species. It examines pore structure, vessel arrangement, grain patterns, and colour signatures to provide a species identification with a confidence score.

Question 3

What is end grain identification and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

End grain identification looks at the cross-section of timber — the cut end of a board — where pore structure, vessel arrangement, and growth ring patterns are most visible. This reveals more diagnostic detail than face grain alone, giving the AI more data for a confident and accurate wood identification.

Question 4

How accurate is AI timber identification?

Accepted Answer

Inspector Wood provides a confidence score with every scan. Results are most accurate when both face grain and end grain are photographed clearly on a clean, sanded surface. The AI also flags CITES-protected and NZ native species so you can verify critical identifications with a qualified dendrologist.

Question 5

What information does Inspector Wood provide about identified timber?

Accepted Answer

Each scan returns the identified species, a confidence score, common and scientific name, best uses, origin, climate suitability, durability rating, expected lifespan, surface condition notes, and possible alternative species. Reports are downloadable for your records.