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STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS
The commercial case for building with timber
The industry has focused on the speed and sustainability credentials of building with timber, but some of its most compelling advantages are commercial, as Paul Newman at the Structural Timber Association explains.
T
Timber-framed homes can be constructed in as little as 15 weeks, signifi cantly faster than the 26-30 weeks typically required for typical masonry methods
he Government’s ambition to deliver 1.5 million new homes by 2029 is proving deeply contentious. A recent survey published in LABM found that fewer than 1% of public sector housing professionals believe the target is achievable under current policy, with even the most optimistic scenario – signifi cant policy reform – convincing less than a third that it can be done.
The sixth edition of the Home Builders Federation’s ‘State of Play’ report also paints a stark picture for SME housebuilders, with an overwhelming 97% of respondents believing the Government’s home target is either ‘very’ or ‘somewhat unachievable,’ with 88% describing it as ‘very unachievable.’ Planning delays remain a signifi cant barrier to growth, along with the squeeze placed on SMEs
from the burdensome taxation and regulatory environment.
This is a sobering backdrop for an industry already grappling with cost pressures and the spectre of increased skills shortages. Despite this, SMEs remain willing to build more. The HBF’s report’s central message is clear: with meaningful, swift reform – particularly to planning – the sector has the capacity to signifi cantly increase output and play a decisive role in meeting the country’s housing needs. And herein lies an opportunity, with timber frame construction being one of the most practical tools available to close the gap. The industry is more than aware of the need to prioritise sustainability. Timber has rightly emerged as a key material for achieving the UK’s net zero targets. However, the advantages of timber go far beyond its environmental credentials, and it is the commercial case that deserves far greater attention from architects, developers and housing associations alike.
Speed that changes the economics of housebuilding Timber-framed homes can be constructed in as little as 15 weeks, signifi cantly faster than the 26-30 weeks typically required for typical masonry methods. That accelerated timeline translates directly into cost savings, reduced project risk and greater programme certainty; qualities that are paramount when housing pipelines are under intense scrutiny. Timber-framed structures also become weather-tight six to 10 weeks sooner than masonry equivalents, meaning internal trades can mobilise earlier and projects complete faster. In an environment where every week onsite carries a cost, this is a material advantage in every sense.
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK ADF APRIL/MAY 2026
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