Which type of wood should be avoided when constructing containers for better durability?

The choice to avoid wood with visible decay when constructing containers is rooted in the need for durability and reliability of the container material. Decayed wood has compromised structural integrity due to the breakdown of fibers and the presence of fungi or other detrimental processes. As a result, using decayed wood can lead to container failure, compromising the protection of the items being stored or transported.

In contrast, while splintered wood and wood with knots may present certain weaknesses, they do not inherently indicate that the wood is no longer capable of performing its function. Furthermore, wood from Group II, which typically refers to a classification of wood species based on specific characteristics like density or durability, may still be utilized successfully in many applications. The critical factor remains that decayed wood lacks the fundamental strength required for a container, making it the least suitable choice for ensuring durability.