Fire-killed and fire-damaged timber are an important source of fiber and are becoming more important because of a decrease in the land base available for timber harvest. Forest managers need to know the causes of deterioration and degrade, the expected losses in product volume and value, and the impact of time on deterioration. This report reviews the literature on rate of deterioration for tree species found in the Western United States, the factors that influence rate of deterioration, and the agents primarily responsible for volume and value loss. Because beetles are the primary insect responsible for some deterioration, literature on beetle-killed trees is incorporated. Also, estimating rate of survival of fire-damaged trees is reviewed. Knowledge of rates of deterioration will assist in preparing harvest plans, environmental impact statements, and timber appraisals in fire-damaged and fire-killed stands.