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STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS
peers, but also housebuilders, developers, and homeowners that the common misconceptions about timber are no longer valid. Timber is often seen as only suitable for specifi c cases, like heritage projects, rather than a mainstream building material. The reality is that timber is appropriate for any context – urban, rural, new build or retrofi t – and can enhance both aesthetic and performance across the board. We should be highlighting not only the value timber adds, but its practicality and compatibility with modern construction methods. Engineered timber, for example, lends itself to offsite manufacturing and precision installation.
Timber is often subject to misconceptions; frequently cited concerns often include high cost, maintenance challenges, and limited durability
One of the most enduring myths is that timber demands excessive maintenance. While it’s true that wood benefi ts from care and attention, the scale of effort needed is often grossly exaggerated. While many alternative materials also require periodic cleaning, repair or replacement, timber can be repaired and refi nished rather than replaced, an important distinction in terms of sustainability and cost-effi ciency. Sectional repair and re-coating is possible
insitu, with modern fi nishes designed for easy renewal. This not only extends the
A2 Boards add to AIM’s high impact soffi t liner range
H
igh Impact Soffi t Liner Boards with Euroclass Reaction to Fire A2-s1,d0 classifi cation are now available from
AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing. For use with concrete soffi ts where thermal or acoustic performance is required, the boards offer excellent impact resistance, so providing an insulated lining designed for semi exposed soffi ts, such as in car parks.
AIM manufactures a variety of non-fi re rated High Impact Soffi t Liner Boards. Now, the fi re, acoustic and thermal insulation specialist has invested in reaction to fi re testing for its stonewool backed board, resulting in an A2-s1,d0 classifi ed ‘limited combustibility’ option to add to the range. The primary job of a soffi t liner is to provide thermal insulation to the soffi t typically the ceiling within semi exposed places, including car parks. In such instances there is a requirement that the soffi t insulation is protected with a cement board and that the combined product is of limited combustibility.
AIM’s A2 High Impact Soffi t Liner Boards manufactured with stonewool insulation are classifi ed in accordance with BS EN 13501- 1 as A2-s1,d0 ‘limited combustibility’. This applies to boards of a thickness from 56 mm to 256 mm. AIM’s A2 High Impact Soffi t Liner Boards can also be used as internal linings for walls and ceilings. They are available in a wide range of thicknesses and insulation materials to suit the thermal resistance (U Value) required to support the thermal performance of the construction. The AIM Technical Support Team can provide U Value calculations as required.
The boards can also contribute to the overall acoustic performance of the soffi t/ fl oor construction. Acoustic testing is covered by Z11012 – Acoustic Performance BS EN ISO 10140-2. The fi bre cement facing board can be easily decorated to match colour schemes. However, decoration would be outside the
scope of the classifi cation report for reaction to fi re. Pre-decorated and through coloured facing boards are available but these have not been classifi ed for reaction to fi re. Part
of the Performance Technology Group,
UK-based AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing has over 30 years of
experience in the design, testing and
manufacturing of high-quality fi re, thermal and acoustic barriers. The company produces a wide variety of bespoke insulation products to customer specifi cation and a range of standard products.
01293 582400
www.aimlimited.co.uk/solutions/a2-high- impact-soffi t-liner-boards
product’s life well beyond 50 years, but also reduces waste, supports circular design principles, and offers the fl exibility to adapt fi nishes to changing tastes over time.
Educating the market
Another challenge lies in where people get their information. Housebuilders and homeowners tend to turn to search engines or anecdotal sources for product info, rather than trade associations or manufacturers. As a result, myths persist, and opportunities are missed. This is where architects and specifi ers can
lead. Using accurate, up-to-date guidance and third-party certifi cations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certifi cation (PEFC), the profession can play a pivotal role in driving higher standards and more sustainable choices. Architects are in a unique position to challenge clients’ assumptions, and highlight timber’s long-term value, to ensure it’s part of the specifi cation conversation from the earliest design stages.
Helen Hewitt is chief executive of the British Woodworking Federation
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK
ADF JULY/AUGUST 2025
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