TIMBER
TIMBER’S MOMENT
Oliver Stanley talks to Premier Timber Frames to explore how timber frame construction is growing in UK construction.
F
rom multi-storey developments to energy-efficient homes, timber construction is gaining momentum as sustainability and performance reshape
the industry.
Timber construction is rapidly expanding beyond traditional single-family homes into commercial and multi-storey developments. Across North America, mass timber construction is growing by an estimated 15– 20% annually, while the world’s tallest timber skyscraper opened in 2023, marking a major milestone for the sector.
In the UK, timber frame already accounts for nearly 28% of new homes and is expected to continue rising as energy-efficiency standards tighten and construction timelines accelerate. Timber construction expert at Premier Timber Frame Builders, Omar Stoltzfus, says these trends reflect a broader shift in how developers and homeowners think about long- term value, sustainability, and living comfort. “Timber construction has changed dramatically in recent years.” he claims, “It’s no longer limited to traditional homes. We’re now seeing it used in larger, more complex buildings, including the world’s tallest mass timber building in Milwaukee, which opened to the public in 2023. Projects like this show that wood is now being trusted at scale because it delivers a strong balance of sustainability, strength, and efficiency. “Energy performance is also becoming a major factor in buying and building decisions. Timber frames make it easier to achieve high levels of insulation, which helps homes stay warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and cheaper to run. With energy costs rising, homeowners are paying much closer attention to long-term heating and living expenses, not just the upfront price.
Timber frame construction is sustainable and eco-friendly as Timber naturally stores carbon, helping reduce a building’s lifetime CO2
footprint compared with concrete or steel. Studies show a typical timber-frame home can save roughly 10–15 tonnes of CO2
timber multi-storey projects can cut emissions by up to 30%.
Large wall cavities in a timber frame also serve to make it easy to achieve high levels of insulation, keeping homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Homeowners benefit from lower heating bills, improved indoor comfort, and homes that meet increasingly strict energy standards.
Stoltzfus continues; “Looking ahead, timber is well-positioned for the future of construction. Faster build times, lower environmental impact, and strong thermal performance make it a smart choice as regulations tighten and sustainability expectations grow.”
Build times reduced Prefabricated timber panels and modular construction methods can reduce build times by 30–50%, saving on labor costs and material waste. Faster construction means homeowners can move in sooner, and developers see quicker returns on investment.
“At Premier, we focus on building long-term relationships with trusted local suppliers. Close collaboration allows us to plan ahead, manage lead times, and deliver reliable results for our clients,” explains Stalzfus. “This approach leads to smoother projects and stronger, mutually beneficial partnerships.“
“The timber boom presents an opportunity for suppliers who aren’t yet fully involved in the sector. Merchants can diversify product ranges, offer integrated solutions, and move beyond individual product sales. Bundled systems, technical support, and coordinated delivery allow suppliers to add real value for their customers and strengthen long-term partnerships.
“Distribution is becoming more project- April 2026
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net , while mass
focused. There’s greater emphasis on pre-packaged components, just-in-time delivery, and site-specific logistics, which help reduce waste and delays. Digital ordering and forecasting tools are improving coordination between manufacturers, merchants, and builders, and this is increasingly important as projects grow in scale and complexity. “In our experience, the suppliers we work with bring strong local understanding, particularly of regional materials like Eastern hemlock. On top of that, we hand-select timber for each project, ensuring every beam meets our standards for strength, durability, and aesthetics. That combination of local expertise and careful selection makes a tangible difference on every build.
“Some merchants have invested heavily in training and understand timber systems extremely well, while others are still adapting and treat timber like traditional materials. Knowledge varies across the industry. As the sector grows, specialist expertise is becoming a clear competitive advantage.
“Timber and mass timber will continue expanding into larger residential and commercial developments as sustainability targets tighten and construction efficiency becomes more critical. This isn’t a short-term trend. It’s a structural shift in how buildings are designed and delivered.
“Invest in expertise, partnerships, and reliable supply chains. Work closely with builders and specialists in your region. Focus on quality, consistency, and service. Merchants who do this position themselves as essential partners in a growing market rather than simply as material suppliers.
“From our experience, the merchants and distributors who perform best are those who understand system-based construction, work closely with specialists, and invest in technical knowledge rather than treating timber like a standard commodity.” BMJ
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