STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 53
Why the industry must achieve timber integration
With mounting pressure on the Government to support and facilitate the increased use of timber in construction for sustainability and other reasons, it’s important that all stakeholders seek a more collaborative approach to deliver effective ‘timber integration.’ Andrew Orriss of the Structural Timber Association explains why
A
lthough great steps have been made in recent years, there is still much that could be done by the UK Government when it comes to furthering the adoption of structural timber, an opinion mirrored by the latest report from the Environmental Audit Committee – ‘Seeing the wood for the trees.’ Within the report, the EAC called on the Government to introduce policy to support the increased use of timber in construction by 40%, a figure recommended by the Climate Change Committee.
The UK Government has already shown its support for the structural timber industry through its Clean Growth Strategy and 25 Year Environment Plan, pledging financial support for both. While it is encouraging that such efforts are being made, the Timber in Construction Working Group, led by Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), is calling for a legislative roadmap that would both drive timber adoption and provide a clear means of doing so.
Sustainable practice allied to early collaboration
As sustainability takes centre stage in the construction industry, structural timber has emerged as the ideal solution for low carbon buildings. However, its successful integration relies on a comprehensive approach involving architects, contractors, and end clients. For architects, contractors, and clients to incorporate structural timber into their plans, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of the material’s properties and capabilities and to design with a ‘material-first’ philosophy. Architects should collaborate closely with structural engineers and manufacturers to fully grasp
ADF SEPTEMBER 2023
the potential of structural timber in their projects. Early involvement of timber experts in the design phase can help identify potential challenges and optimise the use of timber in the building’s structure. Clear and open communication throughout the project’s life cycle ensures that everyone involved is on the same page regarding
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