What’s the best way to use core wood for structural support?

Core wood is one of the most versatile and durable building materials in Valheim, making it ideal for structural support in your builds. Unlike regular wood, core wood is harvested from pine trees found in the Black Forest biome. It is stronger and can support greater heights and spans, making it perfect for creating sturdy frameworks for large structures like longhouses, towers, or bridges.\n\nTo use core wood effectively, start by crafting a core wood log using a workbench. Core wood logs are crafted into core wood beams and poles, which are the primary building blocks for structural support. These beams can be placed vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, allowing for creative and stable designs. When building, always ensure that your core wood beams are connected to the ground or another stable structure to maintain structural integrity.\n\nOne of the key mechanics to understand is the color-coding system for structural stability. When placing core wood beams, pay attention to their color: blue indicates maximum stability, green is stable, yellow is weakening, and red means the structure is about to collapse. Core wood beams can extend further than regular wood beams before turning yellow or red, making them ideal for taller or wider builds. For example, a core wood beam can support up to 16 meters vertically before losing stability, compared to just 8 meters for regular wood.\n\nWhen building large structures, such as a multi-story longhouse, use core wood beams as the primary framework. Start by placing vertical core wood poles at the corners and along the walls. Then, connect these poles with horizontal core wood beams to create a stable base. For roofs, use core wood beams diagonally to create a strong A-frame structure. This method ensures that your building can withstand the weight of additional materials like thatch or wood roofing.\n\nA common challenge players face is building bridges or elevated platforms. Core wood is perfect for these projects because of its strength and durability. To build a bridge, start by placing core wood beams as the foundation, ensuring they are anchored to solid ground on both sides. Then, add horizontal beams to create the walkway. For elevated platforms, use core wood poles to create tall supports and connect them with beams to form a stable base.\n\nAnother practical tip is to combine core wood with stone for even greater stability. Stone has the highest structural integrity in Valheim and can support core wood beams without issue. For example, when building a tower, use stone for the base and lower levels, then transition to core wood for the upper floors. This hybrid approach maximizes stability while conserving resources.\n\nFinally, always carry extra core wood when building in remote areas. Pine trees are abundant in the Black Forest, but it can be time-consuming to gather materials far from your base. Stockpile core wood logs and beams at your base to save time during large construction projects. With these tips, you can efficiently use core wood to create durable and impressive structures in Valheim.