What is the purpose of large surface area washers in wooden structures?

The purpose of large surface area washers in wooden structures is to provide additional bearing area to help prevent damage to wood. When fasteners like screws or bolts are used in wooden applications, they can create concentrated loads at the points of contact. This pressure can lead to localized stress that may result in splitting, crushing, or other forms of damage to the wood. By using large surface area washers, the load is distributed over a broader area, which reduces the stress on the wood fibers and minimizes the risk of damage. This distribution is crucial, especially in structural applications where maintaining the integrity of the wood is essential for safety and durability.

While large surface area washers might have some aesthetic value or other functions like serving as spacers, the primary and most critical function they fulfill is to enhance load distribution and protect the structural material from damage.