In recent years there has been a growing number of new build projects utilising timber. It is becoming more and more common to see timber framed houses, and large timber buildings at schools. This environmentally friendly material is now seen as a top choice to use on projects. In this blog we discuss why that is, and what the benefits are of using it.

Firstly, in this ever increasing energy conscious world we live, anything that can reduce energy consumption and impact on the environment, is seen as a massive plus. Timber is one of the few natural building materials. Generally, timber is not toxic, does not leak chemical vapour into the building and is safe to handle and touch. It also means that as timber ages, it does so naturally and doesn’t break down into environmentally damaging materials. Furthermore, timber frame has the lowest CO2 cost of any commercially available building material.

As well as the big energy benefits timber brings, speed is also another big plus point. It is widely accepted amongst construction professionals that if a prefabricated timber frame is used the time that it takes to construct a house on site is quicker than a traditionally built house of standard brick and block construction. So not only are getting a renewable, low energy use product, you are also saving valuable time in site, and putting yourself in a strong position to meet those tight deadlines.

One worry people might have with timber is that it might not be as robust as say traditional brick and block, and could weaken over time. However that has been shown to be far from the truth. Timber has proved to be a strong and durable material. If built well timber frames buildings will last for hundreds of years. It’s true that the exercise of building in timber requires more precision and planning than a brick and block property. However this will be beneficial in the long run, as the old adage goes, you get out what you put in, and a little extra precision and time at the planning stage will mean a durable and quality material that will last for a very long time.

Timber is energy efficient, durable, is easy to install and use on site and is also a time saver. Unlike other materials once it comes the end if its life span it can be easily recycled. Concrete for example uses 5 times more energy to produce than timber. All impressive facts, and when you weigh it up, it is time to turn to timber.

Is timber a material you use often? Are there others equally as energy efficient and durable? To comment, follow this link to our LinkedIn post.