STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 43 Time for a rethink on timber
Helen Hewitt of the British Woodworking Federation challenges outdated myths about specifi cation of timber, which belie its durability and high-performance credentials.
T
imber is considered the oldest building material in the world, yet it remains one of the most
misunderstood. Despite its natural beauty, low carbon footprint, and performance, timber is often overlooked. As the UK construction industry continues its journey of decarbonisation, the use of timber should be at the forefront of the built environment. At the British Woodworking Federation, we’re working to challenge outdated perceptions and champion timber’s essential role in building a more sustainable future. We must tackle persistent myths about timber’s longevity, cost, maintenance requirements and suitability. Only then can this versatile material take its rightful place in helping to deliver net zero goals and more liveable, future-ready buildings.
Outdated myths vs innovation Timber is often subject to misconceptions. Frequently cited concerns often include high cost, maintenance challenges, and limited durability. However, these perceptions are typically grounded in outdated information or anecdotal evidence, rather than the realities of modern technical performance. Modern cladding or structural elements have advanced coatings, engineered profi les, and rigorous manufacturing standards. These innovations have vastly improved durability and consistency, putting timber on equal footing with, or ahead of, materials like PVCu or aluminium when it comes to performance, lifecycle cost, and aesthetic value. Take timber windows; many assume they are high maintenance. In fact, factory- fi nished timber windows, correctly installed and maintained, can last over 50 years. Today’s acrylic resin coatings are designed to gradually erode, and are easily reapplied, often just once per decade. By comparison, PVCu windows often have a 20-30 year lifespan and can suffer yellowing, brittleness, and limited repair options. In terms of being a truly sustainable
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material, what sets timber apart is not just operational performance, but its entire lifecycle. Timber is renewable and when responsibly sourced, its sourcing supports well-managed forests and biodiversity. With the net zero carbon target in 2050, and the Future Homes Standard set to tighten energy performance in new builds, now is the time to embrace materials that align with these objectives. Timber stores carbon throughout its life and requires signifi cantly less energy to process than materials such as PVCu and aluminium. As a result, specifying timber can substantially reduce a scheme’s embodied carbon.
Challenging misconceptions There is also a misconception that timber is a ‘premium’ choice for conservation areas or high-end developments. If we are to increase the use of timber across volume housing, education, healthcare, and other public infrastructure, all of industry and customers must play a part. This includes helping to educate not just our
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What sets timber apart is its role as a truly sustainable material, not just in operational performance, but across its entire lifecycle
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