ASK THE EXPERT


It’s time for timber


Andrew Orriss of the Structural Timber Association explains the basics around choosing structural timber, and why it holds so much promise for self-builds, particularly on sustainability grounds


S


tructural timber is now used across over a quarter of all new homes in the UK. For self-builders, the material


offers an exceptionally cost-effective and sustainable construction option. What’s more, structural timber excels in terms of design potential, aesthetic value and speed of construction, making it particularly well-suited for those building their own homes.


WHAT IS STRUCTURAL TIMBER? Structural timber refers to any timber solution used within a building’s structure. Normally, structural timber homes are built around a load-bearing timber frame. The timber frame then transmits weight evenly to the building’s foundations and ensures long-term, stable performance. For self-builders,


this form of construction offers a genuine alternative to those manufactured from steel frame, or concrete blockwork.


WHY USE STRUCTURAL TIMBER? It’s clear to see why structural timber is becoming such a popular option for self-builders, especially in an era of greater environmental awareness. Structural timber solutions help to create energy efficient buildings, as the systems have inherent properties which can incorporate very high levels of thermal insulation, and prevent heat being lost through the fabric of a building. Likewise, structural timber buildings are more sustainable than other construction methods. For example, structural timber can act as an effective ‘carbon store,’ with timber harvest crops absorbing more carbon during their growth than what’s emitted during the manufacturing process. Solutions manufactured from structural timber are often ideal for those self-builders wishing to embrace offsite construction methods. For self-builders, such ‘modern methods of construction’ can significantly reduce the need for onsite labour. As such, project management is greatly simplified, with integral building elements manufactured


14 www.sbhonline.co.uk


issue 02 2021


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