Timber Trader UK Issue 12 (Spring 2021)

12

SPRING 2021 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2517–26X (PRINT)

TIMBERMARK  18 ‘Thinking big’ with a new range of handheld thermal inkjet printers ideal for stamping all types of timber GIVE IT THE TIMBER TREATMENT  22

JAMES JONES & SONS  24

Research, testing and why treated wood is a perfectly safe material for fencing and outdoor use

Innovating, expanding and keeping the timber market moving

I don’t know “ where the day went

“

You need ECI Spruce.

Want to find out more? Let us show you the solution over breakfast - on us!

CLICK HERE +44 (0)333 123 0333 | eu-marketing@ecisolutions.com | How business gets done

TIMBER TRADER UK  ISSUE 12 CONTENTS

02

12

18

News........................................................................................02 The latest news and views from across the industry.

20

22

24

26

28

30

Taking Technology to Another Level.........................12 Sam Hart, innovation manager at CSIC discusses the growth in digital technology in construction and the wider use of homegrown timber across the built environment.

Cover Story – Timbermark.............................................18 Timbermark ID Systems has launched a new range of handheld thermal inkjet printers, with the B3, B35 and B85 printers all offering exciting new features.

Future-proofing Knowledge..........................................20 David Hopkins, CEO of the TTF, takes a look at the Code for Construction Product Information and the concept of proving competence when it comes to product knowledge.

Treated Wood Works Outdoors.....................................22 From time-to-time stories emerge that treated posts cannot be relied on. Gordon Ewbank, CEO at the WPA, says that the weight of scientific evidence and the experience of its members prove otherwise.

All Timber Bases Covered................................................24 We spoke to James Jones & Sons about recent company activity and the shape of the UK timber market.

Claim for Your Innovation..............................................26 Businesses in the forestry sector are potentially missing out on an average of £48,000 in R&D tax credit savings.

New Truck on the Block ..................................................28 Hubtex has unveiled the world’s first fully-automated electric multidirectional sideloader for handling long, heavy and bulky goods – the ‘customer-specific’ PhoeniX AGV.

Managing Editor: Terry Hanlon

Registered address:

 terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

73 Cross Lane, Newton-Le-Willows,



01925 270093

Merseyside WA12 9QA

Artwork: Pete Awad  artwork@timbermedia.co.uk

Company registered in England and

Timber Decking to the Rescue.......................................32

Follow Timber Media:

Wales. Company Number 10839173.

The huge increase in demand in timber decking has resulted in many retailers reporting record year turnovers.

 @Timber_Media

VAT registration number 271 5498 81.

The Perfect Partner for the Timber Industry Manage your timber materials more safely, using less space and in less time with Combilift’s materials handling solutions.

combilift.com Timber Trader UK magazine 185 x 62 Liz.indd 1

Timber Trader UK Magazine

10/07/2020 17:13:43

Spring 2021

01

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

UK’s most advanced sawmill planing line begins production

North Lincolnshire-based timber importer and timber products

than has hitherto been available in the UK. With the line now fully

manufacturer Arbor Forest Products recently began production

operational, it is now processing up to 200m of timber per minute. The

on its new sawmill planing line – thought to be the most advanced

technologically led process involves each piece of timber being scanned

system of its kind in the UK.

as it runs through the line, allowing defects such as splits and knots

Last year the company announced it was investing £6 million in

to be identified and trimmed out, with the result being more useable

the new facility which features unique timber scanning technology,

lengths of timber in each load that arrives with customers.

allowing Arbor Forest Products to eliminate defects in lengths of

Commenting on the new line, Phil Yell said: “This new facility

timber – reducing waste and saving time for Arbor Forest customers.

represents a significant investment for us at Arbor Forest Products, and

The planing line was developed in conjunction with Swedish company

a large leap forward in terms of the standards being achieved in the UK

System Hall AB, which designs, manufactures and supplies many

timber market. Technology like this has so far only existed overseas, and

different types of mechanical handling systems and conveyors for

we’re very proud to have worked with System Hall to bring this level of

the woodworking industry, primarily – up to now – in its neighbouring

processing power to the UK for the first time.

Nordic countries. Arbor Forest Products collaborated closely with

“We are now able to accurately assess each piece of timber that

System Hall to devise the production line that best suited its needs, and

passes through our facility and can therefore guarantee a specified

which would offer the best possible value to end users – which would

level of quality for each batch, in line with our customers’ expectations.

include shed manufacturers, those building farm and equine facilities,

With some industrial users reporting wastage levels of around 10%

and the general construction market.

due to faults with the timber, this is a genuine game-changer for UK

Phil Yell, operations director at Arbor Forest Products, and Phil

timber.” This is the first phase in the company’s biggest investment in a

Bott, sawmill production director, worked closely with System Hall’s

single year, with upcoming plans for additional storage taking the total

Jaokim Blixt to agree the design and layout of the facility, travelling to

investment to around £12 million.

Scandinavia in late 2019 to see how similar sawmills, where facilities More at  www.arborforestproducts.co.uk

operate with faster line speeds and higher levels of automation Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

02

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

Landguard Point G R O U P REBO BAMBOO DIVISION

BAMBOO

UK

Introducing an exciting new product.

Landguard Point Ltd are excited to introduce our partnership with REBO Bamboo products in 2021. Rebo are a manufacturer of revolutionary BAMBOO products.

Landguard Point will be the UK’s sole stockist of REBO’s bamboo cladding and decking ranges, offering an exclusive opportunity to our customers.

We are excited to introduce a high-end brand specialized in spreading traditional bamboo culture and innovative living design. The modern world has a focus on sustainability and environmental impacts. Bamboo offers an unrivalled option, with its 5 year growing period and high utilization rate. Meaning it offers the greenest timber resource option.

Our revolutionary technique of carbonization, enhances the natural characteristics of the product. These processes increase durability, hardness, and toughness. Whilst also offering classifications in anti-slip, anti-flammability, and anti-corrosion values.

We will be introducing both a cladding and decking range, covering two colorations and designs. These offer a stylish and durable option for landscaping and architectural designs. We envisage bamboo playing an integral role in these sectors future, and we are excited to offer you the opportunity to join us on this journey.

THE FUTURE NEEDS BAMBOO MAKE IT HAPPEN Contact us today for more information, our team of expert timber importers will help you with any enquiry you have.

Scan with your Phone to View Our Bamboo eBrochure

t: 01554 701860 / 01359 258264 e: sales@landguardpoint.com Timber Trader UK Magazine Spring 2021 www.timbermedia.co.uk  @Timber_Media 03 www.landguardpoint.com

TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Pandemic continues to impact on pallet and packaging prices

Further price increases in the wooden pallet

timber has reportedly doubled in price in

EU are causing further impact for businesses.

and packaging industry are ‘inevitable’,

recent months.

There was also a Brexit-related surge in

according to the European Federation of

FEFPEB secretary general Fons Ceelaert

demand for ISPM15-compliant pallets and

Wooden Pallet & Packaging Manufacturers

said: “On the one hand producers of wooden

packaging, which was most intense in the

(FEFPEB), as the impact of the pandemic

pallets and packaging need to satisfy their

weeks immediately before the deadline. This

continues to be felt by companies across

customers’ demands and growing volumes,

was reportedly still high during February,

Europe and the rest of the world.

but on the other they are experiencing

suggesting a lack of preparation on the part of

enormous price increases on the wood

some customers.

The organisation stated that it expects sustained rises in the price of raw materials

market. As wood costs account for more than

– including timber and steel – and availability

70% of the price of a wooden pallet then

many categories of raw material make further

issues in certain markets, to create upwards

pallet price increases are unavoidable.

price rises in sectors including wooden pallets

pressure on prices for several months. The

“In the end – according to market rules –

“Ongoing international pressures on

and packaging inevitable. The situation is

pallet and packaging sector in most of FEFPEB’s

the raw material is sold to those paying the

complex and, with supply chains around the

member countries showed a decrease in trade

most, which currently is the US timber market

world affected, we expect this to continue for

across 2020. However, as the construction

as Bloomberg lumber futures climbed to a

several months,” added Ceelaert. “We advise

trade and other businesses have recovered,

record high. So wooden pallets and packaging

manufacturers and repairers to maintain an

volumes have begun to increase again, creating

producers are facing increasingly non-

ongoing dialogue with their customers to

pressure on pallet timber.

profitable production, wood shortages and

ensure they are well-informed about this

serious economic decisions about slowing or

situation. FEFPEB, together with our member

even shutting down production.”

associations, is continuing to observe the

Other international factors, including the diversion of Scandinavian and German timber to satisfy demand in the US and Chinese

FEFPEB, which highlighted the developing

markets, and issues such as a drop in Irish

situation in autumn 2020, said the increased

timber production, have also impacted on

administrative burden, delays and costs

the situation. In the US, pallet and packaging

associated with the UK’s departure from the

Marking systems for SAWMILLS, PANEL and PALLET MANUFACTURERS

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

04

situation and will issue further updates when needed.”

More at  www.fefpeb.eu

Tel: 0870 803 1877

www.timbermedia.co.uk

www.timbermark.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

National Timber Group keep expanding Hymor Timber Limited has been acquired by Arnold Laver & Co Ltd,

Rob Barclay said: “We are delighted to welcome Hymor Timber to

part of the National Timber Group, with effect from March 1 2021.

the Group – our shared expertise and commitment to our customers

Established in 1990, Hymor is an independent timber merchant

makes this an obvious and complementary partnership. Together, we

supplying ethically sourced

will increase our offering in the

hardwood and softwood to

important hardwood timber

a broad range of trade and

category and extend our range

commercial customers, including

of services in the Midlands and

joiners and manufacturers

the North West, improving our

across Staffordshire and the

customers’ experience.”

surrounding area. Located in

Roger Malkin added: “As

Stoke-on-Trent, Hymor employs

founders, Graham, Chris and I

28 people and in 2020, achieved

are extremely proud of all that

revenues of £4.5 million.

we have achieved so far. We

Hymor fills a geographic

know that Hymor is capable of

gap in National Timber Group’s

achieving much more. So our

existing branch network and

priority was to find a partner

creates an additional hardwood

with shared goals and values

centre of excellence, serving the

who would help it to fulfil its

Midlands and the North West,

future potential. We were

complementing the product offering of NTG’s specialist hardwood

impressed with National Timber Group’s focus on product quality and

depot in Hull that serves Yorkshire and the Humber. Hymor’s founders/

its commitment to the highest standards of customer service. We are

executives: Graham Morris, Roger Malkin and Chris Hyde will work with

confident that we have selected the right partner and that Hymor will

Rob Barclay and Patrick Guest, NTG’s chief executive and managing

continue to prosper within the enlarged Group.”

director for England, to achieve its successful integration into the More at  www.laver.co.uk

Group.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

05

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Södra Wood announces partnership with Denholm Port Services one of three main loading ports: one on the west coast of Sweden, one on the east coast and one in Finland. The goods arrive by boat at three east coast UK terminals – Sheerness, New Holland and Dundee – and one in the Republic of Ireland.

“With the UK leaving the EU and all lorries and ships entering the country now requiring customs clearance – combined with the sheer volume of timber we import – we wanted to avoid any potential issues with delays,” explains Anthony Burridge, Shipping Manager. “We therefore took necessary steps to mitigate this risk, and our partnership with Denholm Port Services plays a significant role.

“Denholm is very much the expert in this field and with a team in place dedicated to clearing all of our ships and lorries, we’re confident that we can continue to supply Södra Wood Ltd has announced a two-year contract with Denholm

our customers in a timely, cost-efficient way. This partnership is just

Port Services, the leading UK ship agency provider. In light of increased

another step in cementing our long-term approach to the UK market,

paperwork and more complex requirements following the UK’s

and continuously improving the service we provide our valued UK

departure from the European Union, Södra has taken steps to streamline

customers. Crucially, it also frees up our internal team’s time, allowing

its imports and mitigate any potential issues or customs delays.

them to do what they do best: fulfilling our customers’ requirements to a high standard, each and every day.”

Södra is in a unique position, in that its business model gives it full end-to-end control of its supply chain. Södra produces timber in seven

More at  www.sodra.com

sawmill locations across Sweden and Finland, and ships goods from

Bruce McKay at the BSW Timber Solutions helm Bruce McKay has been appointed as

Timber Solutions. Over the last 12 months, I

managing director of BSW Timber Solutions

have been inspired by the dedication of those

Limited, formerly SCA Wood UK, following

within our business and I am motivated by

five successful years in his post as supply

seeing everyone strive to ensure that BSW

chain and procurement director. The

Timber Solutions becomes the best that it

announcement came after Bruce was

can be. With the acquisition we have already

director and joins Alan Mills, finance director

appointed as the designate managing

set our strategy to align with BSW, aiming

for the BSW Timber Solutions division, Mike

director of the business when it was

to deliver innovative and proactive solutions

Lomas, BSW group operations director, and

acquired by BSW in December.

right across our business.”

Mike Faulkner, BSW group sales director, as

Having spent 25 years in the timber

BSW Timber Solutions Ltd is one the

industry, Bruce has senior level experience

largest processors and distributors of timber

working across a variety of functions –

products in the UK with annual sales in excess

Solutions,” said Tony Hackney, CEO of BSW.

including procurement, supply chain, sales and

of £145 million. The business operates from

“It’s been fantastic to internally promote both

commercial – and he will lead the business

its headquarters and distribution centre in

Bruce and Lynsey. We have ambitious plans

through this exciting new phase.

Stoke-on-Trent and has further processing and

for the business that will add value to our

Bruce said: “Having worked at SCA for

distribution capability at its three other sites

established products and widen the range of

nearly five years, it goes without saying that

in Melton, Welshpool and Cumbernauld. In

products we offer.”

I’m thrilled to be a part of the exciting new

addition to Bruce’s appointment, Lynsey Pace

future with our newly named business, BSW

has been promoted from HR manager to HR

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

06

the newly formed board of directors.

“I’m excited for the future of BSW Timber

More at  www.bsw.co.uk

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

MEDITE makes it real

®

Engineered wood panels for imaginative builds, whether practical or playful, MEDITE® makes it real.

From windows and doors to tables and chairs. To kitchen cupboards, skirting and bespoke-crafted stairs. For dolls houses and toys, putting smiles on little ones’ faces. And planters and baskets in our beloved green spaces. The clocks, the picture frames that adorn living room walls. The desks for home working and learning in schools.

Join the MEDITE MDF community online to receive the latest updates and to be entered into a competition – sign up to receive a free gift.

Visit meditemakesitreal.com for more information.

Dreamers welcome!

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

07

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Ignition invests in Cornish timber manufacturer Ignition, a leading UK provider of asset finance

meet the business’s growth plans for the next

for SMEs, has assisted Truro Timber Frames

five years, the company needed to invest in

with finance for vital new equipment. Based in

some significant pieces of equipment and

Truro in Cornwall, Ignition offers finance for a

during 2020 Ignition arranged almost £275k in

wide range of assets from plant and machinery

advances to finance the purchases.

to vehicles and business equipment.

Truro Timber Frames & TTF Truss Solutions

Ignition navigated the challenges of Coronavirus lockdown on behalf of Truro Timber

The new Hundegger saw pictured with company directors, Rob (left) and Nick (right) Winfield, with Paul Caunter (centre) of Ignition.

Ltd, the manufacturing arms of The Winfield

Frames in arranging finance to support the

Holdings Group, specialise in the manufacturer

purchase of a Hundegger Saw direct from the

of lockdown along with purchasing equipment

and erection of timber frame, joist and truss

supplier in Germany at a cost of more than £200k

from overseas made it a challenging time to

components for the commercial and residential

with Ignition transacting the required funding in

source new machinery and progress with finance

construction sectors. Based in St Columb,

excess of €150k using the F/X facilities available

arrangements, it was great to have Ignition

Cornwall, the business has gained a trusted

to them. This automated saw line feeds and cuts

helping us every step of the way. Each transaction

reputation across the region for the design,

timber direct from the computer designs and

was dealt with swiftly and efficiently meaning

manufacture, supply and erection of high

is three times more efficient than the previous

that we got the equipment quickly and with

quality timber frame buildings that are both

labour intensive, manual cutting method.

minimum hassle. All their help has enabled us to

quick to build and cost effective. As part of its

TTF Truss Solutions also bought a brand new

hit 2021 running with the capacity to meet the

offer, it also supplies prefabricated roof trusses

Truss Press, which cost almost £130k of which

demands of an ever growing order book and

that are manufactured under quality-controlled

Ignition arranged finance of nearly £100k – this

with the knowledge we can satisfy all our clients

conditions in the factory.

piece of kit is invaluable in growing the truss side

erection schedules.”

With an ever increasing workload over

of the business and has doubled output capacity.

the first decade of trading and in order to

Director, Nick Winfield, said: “The restrictions

More at  www.trurotimberframe.com

Composite Prime unveils new ‘on-trend’ colourway

Composite Prime, has launched a new duo of

this trend is set to stay with Pantone crowning

Prime has saved the equivalent of 110 million

‘Ultimate Grey’ as its colour of the year. 2020

plastic milk bottles from landfill.

was the year that homeowners embraced every

Charles continued: “All of our sustainable

part of their home and the garden became an

products have a remarkable likeness to timber,

extension of our living space - as a result, interior

something that our competitors struggle

trends were carried outdoors. Using the colour

to emulate. The versatility and colour tones

grey both indoors and outdoors has become

that composite material allows make it the

extremely popular to create a contemporary

perfect choice for consumers wanting to

and dramatic look.

transform their gardens. HD Deck® Dual allows

colours, slate and natural oak, to its HD Deck®

“We have responded to the grey hue

consumers to create a completely bespoke

Dual range in response to consumer demand.

demand and introduced ‘slate grey’ coupled

design with tailored patterns and schemes to

Annual sales statistics from the Yorkshire-

with ‘natural oak’ to our popular Dual range.

match adjoining interiors.”

based business showed that more than 90%

The combination of natural oak and slate is

of its decking products sold last year were

a market first and we’re confident that it will

layer to increase protection against fading,

in varying shades of grey, and as a result the

be well received by consumers and stockists

staining and other potentially damaging

team has developed and introduced a new

alike. Demand for ‘natural oak’ decking also

elements, the boards are low maintenance,

colour pairing to its HD Deck® Dual range.

increased. It’s a finish classically associated

slip resistant, durable, and barefoot safe so

The innovative range offers a reversible

with indoor flooring but as homeowners

make the ideal option for high traffic, family

two-colour option that allows the deck to be

invest in their outdoor spaces and create

outdoor living. The range also saves space in

laid with contrasting colours to create a bespoke

complimenting colour schemes we’ve

warehouses due to the reversible two-colour

finish or pattern. Charles Taylor, sales director

experienced higher than expected sales.

options and is 3D embossed with wood grain to

at Composite Prime, said: “A huge proportion

Composite Prime’s products are made using

of our product sales in 2020 were in the colour

recycled plastic and FSC® certified oak wood

grey and predictions for 2021 suggest that

flour. In the six years of operation, Composite

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

08

The HD Deck® Dual features a capped

ensure it appears natural.

More at  www.composite-prime.com

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Robert Hairstans appointed founding CATT director national location in timber education and

building that will impact timber technology

to work with the broader NMITE academic

and advanced manufacturing, sectors that

team to create a sustainable educational

are critical to regional and national growth.

portfolio.

The building will accommodate extensive

Hairstans joins on a two-year secondment

workshops, studio learning space, breakout/

from Edinburgh Napier University (ENU),

study space and ancillary areas. Planning

where he is head of the Centre for Offsite

permission has been submitted with the

Construction + Innovative Structures

expectation of starting on site in April 2021

(COCIS) within the University’s Institute for

and structural completion by March 2022.

Sustainable Construction. Commenting on the

When complete, this facility will complement

appointment, Professor Beverley Gibbs, chief

the research and timber testing infrastructure

academic officer, NMITE said “We are thrilled

of ENU and, by extension, the Construction

at Professor Hairstans’ arrival and know he

Scotland Innovation Centre which is hosted

has the expertise, experience and passion to

by ENU. This Centre has a unique Innovation

develop and deliver the CATT’s vision.”

Factory capable of manufacturing advanced

Professor Hairstans’ specialist expertise

timber technologies including a vacuum press

is in the fields of timber engineering and

for cross laminated timber (CLT) production.

technology with a focus on adding value to

The appointment has the additional

the timber supply chain with an emphasis

benefit of bringing together two

on engineered timber products and offsite

organisations who, having seen the potential

(modular) construction. Commenting on his

of a future partnership, have now signed a

appointment, Robert said: “I am delighted

memorandum of understanding. A key focus

to be the founding director of the CATT.

of the UK wide collaborative framework is

Working with industry I want to accelerate the

the idea of CATT as a ‘living lab’, working with

utilisation of timber, digitisation and factory-

industry to develop projects that prototype

based approaches by ensuring an inclusive

solutions with students gaining knowledge

educational model which generates a value

from real-life conditions. In the longer term

New Model Institute for Technology and

return for the sector via the next generation of

NMITE explains its ambition is to catalyse a

Engineering (NMITE) has announced that

built environment professionals.”

UK-wide, full-sector skills strategy for timber

Professor Robert Hairstans has joined as

Central to this vision is a new learning

technology and sustainable built environment,

founding director of its Centre for Advanced

and teaching building in Hereford’s dynamic

bringing about growth and impact on industry,

Timber Technology (CATT). His role will be

enterprise zone – Skylon Park. NMITE’s

society and the environment.

to lead the development and delivery of

building will be a beacon of sustainability

the CATT, to help establish it as the leading

and is NMITE’s inaugural advanced campus

More at  www.nmite.ac.uk

New WTTA chair announced Nigel Buckley-Ryan, Södra Wood Ltd sales

from the industry invited to present at each

director, has been named as Western

gathering.

Timber Trade Association’s (WTTA) new

“All WTTA members are passionate

chairperson. The WTTA is a regional

about the timber industry and servicing our

association of the Timber Trade Federation

customers to the highest possible standard,”

(TTF) with around 50 active members across

said Nigel.

Great Britain and Belgium, including Södra

“The WTTA offers an invaluable platform

Wood.

to network with fellow members and share

Its remit is to support its members with

ideas. Each member is therefore able to

all the information, help and assistance they

take something valuable away from each

require, and its website is a hub of timber-

meeting and improve their own business.

the good work of Mark Wayne Probert, the

related educational and training resources.

This improvement is then paid forward to

outgoing chairperson, in the months and years

The quarterly meetings offer an excellent

our customers, meaning it’s a win-win for the

to come.”

opportunity for its members to network in an

industry. I’m incredibly proud to be the new

informal environment with a quality speaker

chairperson and look forward to continuing

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

09

More at  www.western-timber.co.uk

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

concern from the survey participants that they will face further challenges and uncertainties once the grace period for customs declarations comes to an end in July, and when UKCA marking is enforced next year. Encouragingly, the survey did find respondents well prepared for their new role as Operators under UKTR and the due diligence requirements this entails, as well as for the new rules for importing, as none of those surveyed mentioned any issues

Brexit friction part of timber trade equation

from a compliance perspective.

David Hopkins, TTF CEO said: “On the whole, this survey shows that our members are coping well with the changes brought about by Brexit. But the new trade restrictions have come at a time when the market is experiencing unparalleled challenges as a result of the COVID pandemic. In December

Difficulties with logistics, trade with

Regulation (UKTR), phytosanitary certificates

we released a market statement warning of

Northern Ireland, and the time and cost to fill

and potentially duty under the Northern

tight timber and panel supplies into 2021.

out customs and due diligence paperwork are

Ireland Protocol, GB suppliers are at a

Now, the situation is exacerbated by increased

adding pressure to an already tight timber

disadvantage compared to their European

administration and slower delivery times as a

supply chain, a survey by the Timber Trade

counterparts, as NI is for practical purposes

result of the Brexit trade deal.”

Federation (TTF) has found.

still in the EU, and timber from the EU is not

“Looking ahead we see a variety

Logistics is the most pressing challenge

subject the same or similar requirements.

of challenges besides logistics. Most

facing respondents, with a lack of haulage

However, NI exporters to GB do appear to

concerningly is UKCA marking. This mark

vehicles, inflated costs, and hauliers’ hesitancy

have largely ‘unfettered access’, with 55%

could raise considerable trade barriers for our

to import and export goods in and out of the UK

of respondents reporting that they were not

members. The Government has yet to draw up

slowing down trade. The next most prominent

experiencing trade restrictions while moving

the full framework for suppliers from outside

issue for traders is the Northern Ireland

goods from NI to GB.

the UK, so we foresee businesses struggling

Protocol, which 45% of respondents from Great

Additional administrative procedures, as

to prepare for the implementation of the

Britain (GB) who are trading with Northern

well as some European companies unwilling

new mark next year. We are working with the

Ireland (NI) believe is detrimentally impacting

or unable to share details of supply chains

Construction Products Association (CPA) to

their ability to supply the NI market.

to help members complete the necessary

look for practical solutions to this situation.”

As timber from GB is subject to customs declarations, due diligence under UK Timber

due diligence under UKTR, is also affecting respondents’ businesses. There was also

More at  www.ttf.co.uk

James Jones & Sons picks up GT Timber James Jones & Sons Ltd has announced the acquisition of GT Timber Ltd, the holding company of Taylormade Timber Products Ltd and Kerr Timber Products Ltd which operate sawmills at Sherburn Hill, Durham and Annan respectively. The acquisition will increase James Jones & Sons Ltd’s annual sawn output to 800,000m3 thereby consolidating its position as the UK’s largest privately owned sawmill, timber engineering and pallet manufacturing company.

“We are delighted to have concluded this transaction,” commented Tom Bruce-Jones, Chairman of James Jones & Sons Ltd. “We are really pleased that the existing management team are staying on within the enlarged group to provide continuity, facilitate the integration and to help realise our long term strategic plans. The sawn output from both mills will

the investment programme that we have already started to reach a

complement our portfolio and will allow us to offer increased product

successful conclusion. The sale process was completed quickly and

opportunities for our existing, and newly expanded, customer base.”

smoothly, reinforcing our long-held views that James Jones & Sons Ltd

“On behalf of our shareholders and employees, I am very pleased

is a family company, who shares the same values, ethos and philosophy.

that GT Timber Ltd will become part of the James Jones Group,”

We are very excited about the future.”

added Jilly Wentworth, managing director of GT Timber Ltd. “Their More at  www.jamesjones.co.uk

extensive timber industry experience and financial strength will allow Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

10

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

THE KING OF COMPOSITE Don’t be fooled by a lesser product; since 1996, Trex has invented, defined, and perfected composite decking with a lineup of low-maintenance, high-performance products that fundamentally change the way we live outdoors.

Only The World’s Number One decking brand can claim all that.

Find out more. Call 01469 535 415, email trex@arborforestproducts.co.uk or visit www.arbordeck.co.uk

Tiki Torch

One of 11 contemporary colours available.

Claim your free sample pack: www.arbordeck.co.uk/samples

by

The Trex Transcend and Trex Enhance ranges are distributed exclusively by Arbor Forest Products, the UK’s leading independent timber importer and processor.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

11

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  DIGITAL TOOLS

Taking Technology to Another Level Sam Hart, innovation manager at Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) discusses the growth in digital technology in construction and the wider use of homegrown timber across the built environment.

T

he Covid-19 pandemic has changed working habits,

improved, with less reliance on human interpretation: time is saved, by

with remote access and social distancing limiting what

using computers that can handle tasks much more quickly and it enables

can be done in person. For the construction industry

greater access to data that can be used to support decision-making.

and associated supply chains that has been challenging,

Efficient digital methods can also help to reduce waste, ultimately

but digital tools and technology can play a large part in shaping a

improving sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of the

Covid-safe future.

timber trade one step at a time.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) tools are also

Digital is a broad term, however, and not every piece of technology

beginning to filter into different ways of working. While most are still

is going to be relevant to every business. Together with the Scottish Construction Leadership Forum and Scottish

at the early stages of adoption, new imaging

Futures Trust, CSIC is working on initiatives

tools are being developed, for instance, to

that demystify what is available and help

support remote management of forests, or

companies to understand the technology they

in enabling timber to be craned on and off

should be looking at and, just as importantly,

lorries more safely with drivers controlling

the technology they can largely disregard.

crane arms remotely. We have been working

There is already a digital transformation taking

with the University of Strathclyde and Robert

place across the sector with companies using

Gordon University to design a VR and AR system

technology to their advantage in a number of

that will allow building standards officials to

different ways, from building timber frame

remotely tour a site as it is being built and make

houses to panellised or fully modular projects.

the necessary checks. While this technology

For merchants, digital tools can help to

has an obvious use at the moment, it could

streamline processes, provide real-time data and

also be employed more routinely in the future

information, monitor stock efficiently and can

– particularly in rural and remote areas, where

even be used to predict trends that can influence

travelling to sites may take hours. That said, not

stock levels.

every local authority will have access to, or the

There are a number of clear benefits

means to purchase, VR and AR hardware. So, we

that come from using technology: accuracy is

are also working on a more rudimentary form

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

12

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media



Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

13

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  DIGITAL TOOLS

continuously changing, which means we need to focus more on developing transferable, or meta-skills. Digital literacy, for instance, will be an important area for new recruits coming into the timber trade, as well as knowledge of wider trends in sustainability and innovation that will help to future-proof the sector.

Laminated timber of all kinds – cross laminated timber (CLT), nail laminated timber (NLT), and glued laminated timber (GLT) – are also a key focus of what we do at CSIC. In fact, the vast majority of my current work is in these areas. Previous research from Edinburgh Napier University has shown that homegrown timber can be used for structural applications and we began the commercialisation of mass timber in earnest around two years ago.

We took the next step in that process with the project we

of the technology which could allow them to remotely inspect sites through an app on their mobile or tablet for simple checks like whether

announced last year that will lead to the demonstration of a UK-grown

doors and walls are in the correct place, before moving into more

timber housing unit at COP26 in November. The walls will be made

complex areas.

from CLT, the floors from GLT, and NLT will be used in the roof. Through

At CSIC, we are committed to supporting our colleges and

the increased use of homegrown timber in commercial construction

universities to be fully prepared for the volume up-skilling, res-killing

and housebuilding, we can reduce our reliance on imported timber.

and multi-skilling demands associated with transformational shifts

There should be a range of knock-on benefits from that in terms of

in industry practice. Our ‘Offsite Ready’ programme, delivered in

costs for construction companies, reduced carbon footprint, and in a

partnership with Edinburgh Napier University, City of Glasgow College,

wider economic sense from the setting up of new and more resilient

and a range of industry partners, has supported hundreds of educators

supply chains in the UK. However, we need to raise awareness in the

to develop knowledge and understanding of offsite construction, and

industry and a big part of this project is about doing that. Ultimately,

to embed their learning into teaching practice.

greater sustainable use of our natural and renewable resources will deliver a range of environmental, cost, and economic benefits for

As the digital transformation gathers pace, it will also impact on

Scotland and the wider UK, as well as for individual businesses.”

the skills that are required by those involved in the process, and the competencies and standards that we associate with various job roles.

More at  www.cs-ic.org

The skills required by the entire construction workforce are rapidly and

 Proving the Business Case for Homegrown Timber Among a range of benefits, using more

are built using timber and recent UK

has led on research and development to

homegrown timber is expected to

Government statistics show that, in 2018,

determine the viability of using homegrown

significantly lower costs for the construction

the UK was the world’s second largest net

timber for the production of mass timber

industry – figures suggest a potential

importer of forest products – including

products and systems, such as CLT, NLT,

reduction of as much as 10% compared

timber – behind only China.

glue laminated timber (GLT), and dowel

Timber grown in the UK has historically

laminated timber. The Scottish Government

through reduced need for transportation,

been used for non-structural applications,

is committed to getting more Scottish timber

and open new markets to the UK-based

such as fencing and palettes. However,

into construction and aims to increase the

timber sector. Analysis has suggested that

Edinburgh Napier University Centre for Offsite

current 2.2 million cubic metres to 2.6 million

around 85% of all new homes in Scotland

Construction and Innovative Structures,

cubic metres each year by 2021/2022.

to imported CLT – cut carbon emissions

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

14

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

LJ KƌĚĞƌ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ KǁŶĞƌƐ͕ ǁĞ ŽĨĨĞƌ ĨŽƌ ƐĂůĞ ďLJ

MAJOR ONLINE AUCTION

dŚĞ ĐŽŵƉůĞƚĞ ĐŽŶƚĞŶƚƐ ŽĨ ƚŚŝƐ tĞƐƚ ^ƵƐƐĞdž

SAWMILL

including:

⚫ ϮϬϭϱ >ĂƵďĞƌ >Ͳ E ϮϴϬ ďƵůŬ ƐŽůŝĚƐ ĚƌLJĞƌ ĂŶĚ ϰ >ĂƵďĞƌ dƌŽ Ž ĚƌLJŝŶŐ ĐŽŶƚĂŝŶĞƌƐ ⚫ WͲ^LJƐƚĞŵƐ WͲϯϬϬ ƉĞůůĞƚ ŵŝůů ƉůĂŶƚ ⚫ WƌŝŵƵůƚŝŶŝ ďĂŶĚ ŵŝůů ǁŝƚŚ ůŽŐ ĚĞĐŬ͕ ƐŝŶŐƵůĂƚŽƌ͕ ^'

ĐĂƌƌŝĂŐĞ͕ ^'ϭϯϬϬ ŚĞĂĚƌŝŐ ĂŶĚ ŵŝůů ƌŽůůĞƌ ŽƵƚĨĞĞĚ ⚫ ϮϬϭϮ &ƵůůƉŽǁĞƌ ^K ϭϬϬ ŽƉƚŝŵŝƐŝŶŐ ĐƌŽƐƐ ĐƵƚ ƐĂǁ ĂŶĚ & DϮϱϬ ƚŚƌŽƵŐŚ ĨĞĞĚ ĞŶĚ ŵĂƚĐŚĞƌ ⚫ tĞŝŶŝŐ hŶŝŵĂƚ ϱϬϬ ϲͲŚĞĂĚ ƉůĂŶĞƌ ŵŽƵůĚĞƌ ⚫ ,ƵŶĚĞŐŐĞƌ ,D ƉŶĞƵŵĂƚŝĐ ϰͲƐŝĚĞĚ ďĞĂŵ ƉůĂŶĞƌͬĐŚĂŵĨĞƌĞƌ ⚫ ϮϬϬϲ ^ƚŽƌŝ DĂŶƚĞů &>^ϭϳϬͬϲ ϮϬϬ ďĞĂŵ ĞĚŐŝŶŐ ƐĂǁ ĂŶĚ Ă h<^ ϳϬϬ ĐƌŽƐƐĐƵƚ ƐĂǁ ⚫ ZĂŝŵĂŶŶ <ZϰϱϬ s ŵƵůƚŝ ƌŝƉ ƐĂǁ ǁŝƚŚ ŵŽǀŝŶŐ ďůĂĚĞ ƚĞĐŚŶŽůŽŐLJ ⚫ DͲWŽǁĞƌ ^^ͲϱϭϮd^ ƐƉŝŶĚůĞ ŵŽƵůĚĞƌ ⚫ tĞŝŵĂ t>ϰ ƐŚƌĞĚĚĞƌ ⚫ ǀŽůĂ 'ĂŵĂ ϲϱ< ĐƌŽƐƐ ĐƵƚ ƐĂǁ ⚫ tĂĚŬŝŶ &ͬd 36” ǀĞƌƚŝĐĂů ƌĞƐĂǁ ⚫ ĞŶŽ d,ϲϬϬ ĐŚŝƉƉĞƌ ⚫ ŝĞŵĞƌ ƵƚŽŵĂƚ ^ ϱϬͲϮϬ ŐƵŝůůŽƚŝŶĞ ƐŚĞĂƌ ⚫ WĂƵů ϭϮ< E ŽƉƚŝŵŝƐŝŶŐ ĐƌŽƐƐĐƵƚ ƐĂǁ ⚫ DĂƌƚŝŶ dϱϰ ƐƵƌĨĂĐĞ ƉůĂŶĞƌ ⚫ DĂƌƚŝŶ dϰϰ ƚŚŝĐŬŶĞƐƐĞƌ ƉůĂŶĞƌ ⚫ KŵŐĂ ZEϲϬϬ ƌĂĚŝĂů Ăƌŵ ƐĂǁ ⚫ ƵƐƚ ĞdžƚƌĂĐƚŝŽŶ ƐLJƐƚĞŵƐ ⚫ ^ĐŚƵďĞƌƚ ZWϭϭϭ ŐůƵŝŶŐ ĐůĂŵƉ ⚫ ,LJĚƌŽǀĂŶĞ ĂŶĚ <ĂĞƐĞƌ Ăŝƌ ĐŽŵƉƌĞƐƐŽƌƐ ⚫ ŝĞŵĞƌ ƵƚŽŵĂƚ ƐůĂď ƐĂǁ ⚫ tĂĚŬŝŶ Wh ƐƚƌĂŝŐŚƚ ůŝŶĞ ĞĚŐĞƌ ⚫ tĂĚŬŝŶ D ĐŚĂŝŶ ĂŶĚ ĐŚŝƐĞů ŵŽƌƚŝƐĞƌ ⚫ tĂĚŬŝŶ Z ďĂŶĚƐĂǁ ⚫ dŚĞ dĂůďŽƚƚ dϱϬϬ ǁŽŽĚ ďƵƌŶĞƌ ŚĞĂƚĞƌ ⚫ ĂůŽƌĞdž ,ϭϱϬ ĚĞŚƵŵŝĚŝĨŝĞƌ ⚫ WĂůŵĞƌ WƌŝŵĞƌ ϯ ĐŽĂƚĞƌ ⚫ ĂŶĨŽƐƐ EĞƐƐŝĞ tŽŽĚ ŽŶĐĞƉƚ ŚŝŐŚ ƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞ ůƵŵďĞƌ ŚƵŵŝĚŝĨŝĐĂƚŝŽŶ ƐLJƐƚĞŵ ⚫ ŽŶǀĞLJŽƌƐ ĂŶĚ ĐŚĂŝŶ ƚƌĂŶƐĨĞƌ ƚĂďůĞƐ ⚫ sĂůŵĂƌ :ƵŵďŽ ϱϰϲ ƐŝĚĞ ůŽĂĚĞƌ ⚫ &ŽƌĚ ϭϮϮϬ ϰͲǁŚĞĞů ĚƌŝǀĞ ƚƌĂĐƚŽƌ ⚫ sŽůǀŽ D ϰϰϬϬ ůŽĂĚĞƌ ƐŚŽǀĞů ǁŝƚŚ ŵ ĂŶĚ ŐƌĂď ĂƚƚĂĐŚŵĞŶƚ ⚫ ,ŝŶŽ ϳϬϬ Ϯϲƚ ŚŽŽŬůŝĨƚ ůŽƌƌLJ⚫ >ŝŶĚĞ ,Ϯϱd Ϯ͘ϱͲƚŽŶŶĞ͕ >ŝŶĚĞ ,ϯϱd ϯ͘ϱͲƚŽŶŶĞ͕ >ŝŶĚĞ ,ϱϬd ϱͲƚŽŶŶĞ ĂŶĚ ,LJƐƚĞƌ ,ϳ͘ϬϬy> ϳͲƚŽŶŶĞ ĨŽƌŬůŝĨƚ ƚƌƵĐŬƐ ⚫ >ĞLJůĂŶĚ & & >&ϰϱ͘ϭϰϬ ϳ͘ϱƚ ĐƵƌƚĂŝŶ ƐŝĚĞĚ ƚƌƵĐŬ ⚫ >ĂƌŐĞ ƐƚŽĐŬ ŽĨ KĂŬ ǁŽŽĚ ĨůŽŽƌŝŶŐ ⚫ ,ĞĂǀLJ ĚƵƚLJ ƌĂĐŬŝŶŐ ⚫ WŽǁĞƌ ƚŽŽůƐ ĂŶĚ Ăůů ŵŝŶŽƌ ƉůĂŶƚ ĂŶĚ ĞƋƵŝƉŵĞŶƚ

sŝĞǁŝŶŐ ĂLJƐ͗ dƵĞƐ ϰ͕ tĞĚƐ ϱ ĂŶĚ tĞĚƐ ϭϮ DĂLJ ϮϬϮϭ

ƚ͗ EŽƌƚŚǁŽŽĚ &ŽƌĞƐƚƌLJ >ƚĚ͕͘ 'ŽŽƐĞ 'ƌĞĞŶ >ĂŶĞ͕ WƵůďŽƌŽƵŐŚ͕ tĞƐƚ ^ƵƐƐĞdž Z,ϮϬ Ϯ>t

Bidding Closes: Thursday 13 May 2021 from 2pm Further information, registrations and online bidding available at

https://auction.marriottco.co.uk/

ϭϵ ĂƐƚ ^ƚƌĞĞƚ &ĂƌŶŚĂŵ 'hϵ ϳ^ d͗ ϬϭϮϱϮ ϳϭϮϬϴϯ ͗ ƐĂůĞƐΛŵĂƌƌŝŽƚƚĐŽ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬ

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

15

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  HOMEGROWN TIMBER

More Native Trees Required

A meeting in February of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Forestry and Tree Planting heard that timber grown in the UK is perfectly good to use in construction and has a big part to play in renovating properties as well as building new homes.

R

eported on by Confor, the

need all this wood and much more besides. Only

to make a solid link between tree planting,

discussion focused on how the

about 20% of our demand (for wood products) is

woodland management and wood use, saying:

use of wood must increase

met by homegrown timber.”

“Demand for wood is increasing, exponentially,

significantly if the UK is to meet

Dr Ridley-Ellis stressed that total timber

but are politicians and civil servants building

its climate change targets and produce more

self-sufficiency in the UK was an unrealistic goal,

this into policy-making? Are they advocating

homegrown wood. Currently, the UK only

adding: “Even if we met our current planting

the urgent need for increasing sustainable

produces about 20% of the wood it uses, with

targets and planted entirely productive conifer

wood production in tandem with sustainable

80% imported.

species, we would still not be self-sufficient

food production? The need to plant productive

for 200 years – and that’s where we are now,

woodlands now and restock those that have

head of public affairs for CEI-Bois and EOS

not taking into account growing demand.

been harvested. The language around the next

(the European woodworking and sawmilling

Fundamentally, timber is renewable and, on the

round of land use support would suggest not. In

industries), began the meeting by outlining the

face of it, plentiful, but we can forget about the

the race to plant we need to change perceptions,

global perspective, saying: “If we house the

reality on the supply side. Renewable is not the

change language, it’s not tree planting we should

world’s fast-growing population using these

same as infinite.

be promoting, it’s tree establishment. We need

Paul Brannen, a former MEP and now

traditional materials (cement, steel, brick and

“The trees we plant now will not be used

block), there is no way we will meet global

for decades and will set the standard for future

climate targets. The only material we know that

generations. Trees grown here are suitable

and Tree Planting, added: “It’s so vital to set

we can substitute for them is wood. Can we

for much of our construction as long as we do

a clear pathway to plant more trees, manage

use wood products in what the EU is calling the

not over-specify. We need to use what is good

more woods and use more homegrown timber

‘renovation wave? This is important because the

enough, not better than it needs to be.”

in the year that COP26 comes to the UK and

to plant with a purpose.”

Ben Lake MP, chair of the APPG on Forestry

Jasper Meade, director of PYC Group in

focuses all our minds on our global climate

This could include the mass use of both

Powys, Wales, who has been working with wood

challenge. The Climate Change Committee

wood fibre for lagging lofts and wooden window

for 30 years, said demand for wood was growing

has recommended to the UK Government that

frames instead of plastic and metal ones. Actions

fast, with much greater interest from councils

from 2025 at the latest, all new homes in the

like this could create a ‘second carbon sink’ in

and housing associations and has created major

UK should be timber-framed. This is a massive

the built environment, after the first sink in an

supply challenges. “There are difficulties in

ask and the biggest question is where is all that

expanded area of new forests.

procuring Welsh timber: one has to really plan

wood going to come from?”

UK has the oldest housing stock in Europe.”

Dr Dan Ridley-Ellis, head of the Centre for

ahead and the credit terms are not always

Lake said he would write to Minister for

Wood Science at Edinburgh Napier University,

favourable,” he said. “We want to be able to

Forestry Lord Goldsmith setting out what

said it was important to remember that wood

source timber from our own country because

the APPG had discussed and asking for his

had many uses – as well as high-profile timber

that is sensible and sustainable. The situation is

views on how the Government plans take into

housing, there was a need for fencing, pallets,

changing, but we have had shocking difficulties

consideration greatly increased demand for

energy and the retro-fitting of properties. The

getting timber since Brexit, with prices shooting

timber.

UK currently produces about 10-12 million cubic

up about 25%.”

metres of wood every year. “When we talk about

Caroline Ayre, national manager for England

building with timber, we need to remember we

for Confor, asked why it seemed such a challenge

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

16

More at  www.confor.org.uk  www.growninbritain.org

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

BESPOKE STORAGE SYSTEMS DESIGN | MANUFACTURE | INSTALLATION

Timber Trader UK Magazine 2021 www.timbermedia.co.uk  @Timber_Media 17 sales@wickens.co.uk │ Spring WWW.WICKENS.CO.UK │ +44 (0)1905 456780

COVER STORY  TIMBERMARK

Thinking Big with Timbermark

B3 model

B35 model

B85 model

Timbermark ID Systems has launched a new range of handheld thermal inkjet (TIJ) printers from Chinese manufacturer Zhuhai Bentsai Printing Technology Co. Ltd. These are ideal for both pallets and packaging.

W

ith the new larger print capability, designs have far

drawback. The fact that the B35 can double this print size and print a

greater impact, and visibility from a greater distance.

high-resolution mark onto timber or even composite blocks means we

Additionally, the 1” cartridges are available in aqueous

can now offer the right tool for the job.”

and solvent variants, so the printer can work on porous

Packing case manufacturers can use the B80 model, which has a

substrates such as paper and timber, and non-porous substrates such

market-leading, 100mm high print effect. This is achieved by stacking

as metal, plastic or glass.

four of the 1” heads and synchronising the printing through a contact

Timbermark sees great potential for these new products across

encoder wheel to keep the print heads in registration. A guide rail for

many industries and anticipates keen interest, particularly from pallet

this printer is available in a customisable length, up to 1.8m long, to

and case making businesses. Pallet manufacturers can use the 1”, B35

suit a variety of applications. The rails are inexpensive and are available

model to print stacks of assembled pallets, using the hand printer and

separately, so that a series of rails can be used to produce a jig suitable

guide rail. The ISPM HT mark is produced particularly effectively using

for each printing job.

this technique, and results in a mark that is supersharp, sized 25mm high by 50-60mm long, and can be applied in around one second.

Additionally, there is a ‘group print’ feature, which allows the user to select multiple designs.

The job is configured by the operator from the touch screen, and the printer cycles through the designs in the order selected. In this way, a pallet with a different stamp on each block can be marked without changing the printer setup, making the job as quick and as easy as stencilling, but with the quality of a desktop printer.

Oxfordshire-based Timbermark has been supplying printer products and systems to the timber industry for 16 years. Managing director, Colin Stewart, says this handheld printer is just what many of his pallet manufacturing customers have been waiting for: “Customers like the precision and quality of mark offered by the TIJ printers,” says Colin. “But until now the height of the mark at just half an inch has been a big Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

18

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

COVER STORY  TIMBERMARK

Economy and flexibility Thermal inkjet has hitherto had a bit of an image problem with perceived high running costs, and this, too, is an issue that is addressed by this new product range. Firstly, the controller has a ‘greyscale’ setting, meaning that users can change the dot size, which affects the ink use. Customers might use this feature to adjust for bleed into the material grain, to optimise the contrast with the background substrate colour, or simply to manage the cost per print.

Secondly, there is a standard cartridge refill system, meaning that users can increase the life of the 1” cartridge with an easy-to-use ink supply and injector. The refill kits are available uniquely via e-commerce, and for now are limited to aqueous inks.

Thirdly, the equipment is value-engineered by an innovative Chinese producer, with the result that the equipment costs as little 25% of the price of some European manufacturers of similar products.

The equipment and solution is design-led, with functionality and cost criteria factored in. The B3 printer in this new range is an example of this approach to value-engineered product design. Using a standard 12.7mm (1/2 inch) printhead, this handheld printer’s main advantage is its price competitiveness – it is available for under £600.

“Customers like the precision and quality of mark offered by the TIJ printers.

But until now the height of the mark at just half an inch has been a big drawback.

The fact that the B35 can double this print size and print a high-resolution mark onto timber or even composite blocks means we can now offer the right tool for the job.”

The B80 can print perfect shipping logos onto plywood and OSB. Customer logos can be printed to exact specifications, often for designs that would be impossible to achieve with a stencil or rubber stamp. The system is so precise that, on most substrates, it can print a machine-readable bar code or matrix code. This opens new possibilities for accessing online documentation such as data sheets or hazardous goods info, by scanning a QR code from a smartphone.

A USB database feature can be used for printing variable data, such as writing customer addresses on the panel. The data is saved on USB as a .csv file and loaded to the device. The user can then select the starting point and assign a column of data to each variable field in the design.

 Free Demonstrations For a limited period, Timbermark is offering free demos on this product range, administered through a Sale or Return agreement on their e-commerce website  www.t-mark.co.uk For further information please contact the Timbermark sales team on  sales@timbermark.co.uk

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

19

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  TRAINING & SKILLS

Future-proofing Knowledge

David Hopkins, CEO of the Timber Trade Federation (TTF), takes a look at the Code for Construction Product Information and the concept of proving competence when it comes to product knowledge.

N

ot so long ago, the president of the TTF, Charles Hopping

the supply chain, but TTF members adopted an alteration to our Code of

of Hoppings Softwood Products, remarked to our

Conduct that makes due diligence responsibilities clear to both Chinese

annual gathering that the Grenfell disaster had ‘changed

suppliers and UK importers.

everything’ for the construction sector. Some four years

Our campaign on timber treatments, in line with the principles behind

down the line, the construction sector is coalescing around various

the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), is designed to ensure

actions, set out in three key pieces of information which I would urge

that anyone trading in or selling ‘treated timber’ gives precise information

everyone to read, which emanate from the challenge set out in Dame

as to which level of treatment timber has received. This enables timber and

Judith Hackitt’s original report.

builders’ merchants to check suppliers’ documentation and make sure they

Firstly, published last October, is ‘Setting the Bar’, the latest report of

are getting the material they asked for. It is also intended to make sure that

the Competence Steering Group for Building a Safer Future. The second is

merchants understand why and how timber treatments vary, and which

the Construction Products Association’s ‘Construction Product Information

types of construction and garden timbers need which level of treatment. In

Industry Consultation: Better Data, Safer Building’, setting out the need

this way all our customers will be getting the right timber for the right job

for implementing a pan-sector Code for Construction Product Information.

and can expect it to perform in a designated situation.

These two workstreams go hand in hand. Thirdly, launched only in March,

As our trade starts to get to grips with the CCPI, it will make us all stop

is the Construction Leadership Council’s Skills Plan 2021-2025. Taken

and re-examine how we can prove to our customers in the trade that our

together, these three crystalise the steps that need to be taken to formalise

people know what they are talking about and can offer sound advice. Some

the construction sector’s commitment to safe building products and

companies choose to write their own timber training courses based around

practices of the future.

their business needs. Others send their staff on external courses, the two

In ‘Setting the Bar’ the deliberations and action plans of eleven

most popular being run by the Wood Technology Society (formerly the

Working Groups, covering a vast swathe of the construction industry,

Institute of Wood Science) now under the banner of professional body IOM3.

detail requirements for demonstrating the competence people working

These give a good basic grounding in timber, panel products and certification,

in their individual sectors. Working Group 12, the Construction Products

sufficient for most new entrants to our trade to get to grips with the material

Competence group, will be the next to publish its findings. In the

they are dealing with, and to know when to ask colleagues for advice.

meantime, the Code for Construction Product Information recognises

It is the gaining and formalising of experience above that level

the importance of both the competence of the individuals conveying

which the sector will be focusing on as we move forward. New matrices

information, and also of their ethical behaviour while doing so.

of construction product competence, developed through the various

These strands – competence and ethics – reflect what the TTF has

post-Grenfell Working Groups, will result in new overarching competency

been working on of recent times, in our campaigns on Chinese plywood

standards for construction, which we in the timber trade can then work

and now on timber treatments. In both cases, we were faced with a mis-

with and adapt to the needs of our industry. The TTF is now fully engaged

match in product descriptions and a need to uplift the trade’s knowledge

on producing its own map of the training, skills and education needs of

of how to detect material which didn’t meet its specification. With Chinese

our members, wherever they sit along the wood supply chain, as our

plywood, detailed research revealed huge inconsistencies between the

contribution to a post-Grenfell world.

timber species and glue bonds quoted on Chinese suppliers’ documentation More at  www.ttf.co.uk

and the actual products supplied. This has taken time to iron out along Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

20

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

Life a�er Lockdown?

Learning and qualifica�ons for 2021 and beyond from your award‐winning �mber industry training partner

NEW Level 2 Award in Understanding Wood as a Material • Get basic wood knowledge and learn how to provide advice and assistance.

• Be more confident in avoiding mistakes with �mber and wood‐based products.

• A must for all new entrants to the Timber Trade or those in a customer‐facing role.

UPDATED Level 4 Certificate in Wood Science and Timber Technology • In‐depth knowledge on Timber and Wood Science, including processing, grading, use in fire, engineered �mber and panel products, using our new 'blended learning' format.

• Ideal for management trainees, middle and senior managers or staff in a senior role and those involved in ordering, specifying and design.

• Leads to eligibility for Membership of the IOM3 at “Technician” level – TIMMM.

o Wood Science W G IN C U D O R T IN Fixed‐price short courses including:

rkshops

Plywood

Fire

The industry can’t do without it, so learn how to how to understand it, specify it and avoid costly errors.

How wood responds, how we can ensure it can s�ll be used safely and with confidence.

Wood Protec�on

Water Moisture in �mber, measuring and monitoring in procurement, supply and use in construc�on.

A defini�ve guide to treatments, preserva�on processes and surface coa�ngs you shouldn’t be without.

Full details of costs, venues and course durations are available on our website

woodexperts.com or contact us to discuss your training requirements

01677 427 273 info@woodexperts.com

TFT Woodexperts Limited · Park House · 16 Emgate · Bedale · North Yorkshire · DL8 1AL · UK 21Beverley, East Yorkshire, HU17 8EU, UK Registered Company Address: 74 Lairgate,

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  TIMBER PROTECTION

Treated Wood Works Outdoors From time-to-time stories emerge, often driven by other agendas, that treated posts cannot be relied on. Gordon Ewbank, CEO, Wood Protection Association (WPA) reveals that the weight of scientific evidence and the experience of its members proves otherwise.

T

reated wood is the

the ground no significant signs of

mainstay material of

deterioration in treated spruce, pine,

the fencing industry

larch and Douglas fir posts could be

and preservative

detected yet the untreated control

systems do work when applied

posts have already starting to fail.

in accordance with industry

In all markets, there is a choice of

standards and when treated

products and price points. The fence

posts are installed correctly.

post market is no exception. Premium

WPA members produce millions

products with a quality assured

of treated posts every year and,

pedigree and predicted performance

contrary to allegations that failures

do cost more. If a low-priced fence

are widespread, they report that

post is accompanied with a vague

incidents of early onset decay are

description such as ‘green treated’

now relatively uncommon. That’s

then buyer beware! The level of

because treaters have invested

preservative protection could be quite

heavily to underpin confidence in

inadequate for the end use making

treated wood for ground contact

premature failure almost inevitable.

use. These investments include: The WPA BenchmarkTM Scheme •

Enhanced timber drying facilities

•

The introduction of incising

Currently, some fencing contractors are calling for no-strings

technology to improve

performance warranties on treated

preservative penetration

posts including consequential costs it fails prematurely. However, such

•

Innovations in treatment plant design and process control

calls swim against the tide of industry opinion now TTF members have

•

Improved communications to raise awareness about how to specify

adopted third-party certification as the best way to verify treated wood

treated wood correctly

quality. Certification schemes are highly successful in other treated

Offering third-party quality verification that treatment complies

wood markets like USA, Canada and Scandinavia and TTF members

with either 15 or 30 years desired service life requirements in

believe the time has come to use them in the UK too. The QA scheme

industry Standards.

TTF members are most likely to turn to is the WPA BenchmarkTM.

•

The WPA BenchmarkTM for wood impregnated with preservative has Wood preservation is an industry of continuous development where

been operating successfully for over 8 years and has accredited treaters

treatment Standards are based on scientific evidence accumulated

in the UK and the EU. The scheme verifies, under third-party audit, that

from years of laboratory and field testing, constant process innovation

the treatment process and treated product are compliant with industry

and extensive sampling and analysis of treated products. All too often

standards. Whilst the British Standard BS 8417 defines preservative

though, if a post decays prematurely, the finger of blame points at

penetration and retention levels by application ‘use class’ it does not

the preservative. This is wrong. Claims that current preservatives lack

set down how these critical requirements are achieved but points to

efficacy totally ignore the evidence that they do perform.

the recommendations in the WPA Industrial Wood Preservation Code of Practice.

Confirmation of Preservative Efficacy An Open Invitation

It takes years of research and testing to develop an industrial wood preservative. Before a manufacture can sell any preservative to

WPA is delighted that several major timber trade associations are

UK wood treaters they are required, by law, to get approval from the

collaborating closely in its campaign to promote quality and help grow

Health & Safety Executive (HSE). A key part of the HSE’s assessment

the UK market for treated wood. The offer of collaboration is always

process is close scrutiny of a preservative’s efficacy data and field test

open to those who share our mission to make the most of wood as a

results. Approval for sale will not be granted unless sufficient evidence

sustainable, low environmental impact construction and landscaping

of effective performance has been accepted.

material.

Confidence in the efficacy of current preservatives is further reinforced by early results from the 15- year independent UK field trial

The WPA Industrial Wood Preservation Code of Practice is available

of 1,560 square sawn fence posts managed by BRE. After five years in

as a free download from  www.thewpa.org.uk

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

22

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

You can rely on treated timber in the field

when you follow the simple

for ground contact treated timbers:

Ground Rules

Specify Use Class 4

Preservative pressure treatment provides wood with added durability. However, it’s a mistake to assume that all pressure treated wood is the same – treatment levels should be tailored to the desired end use (Use Classes).

When ground contact timber is treated correctly to Use Class 4, it is fit for purpose – evidence from WPA field trials supports this.

Several timber trade bodies are working together to help ensure that quality standards are assured across the timber supply chain – so whether you buy or sell treated timber you can rely on its performance, just follow the simple Ground Rules.

levels of preservative treatment – anything less and service life, structural safety and customer satisfaction will be compromised.

Use a trusted treater

who has third party accreditation of their operational quality management systems – such as the WPA Benchmark Scheme.

Be prepared to pay

for quality – premium products incur higher costs but their inherent value is priceless when performance in the field is paramount.

Typical Use Class 4 applications include: Fence posts, retaining walls, landscaping timbers, playground equipment, decking posts, decking joists, boardwalk substructures and any external application where structural integrity is essential for user safety.

The Make Sure it’s 4 campaign is supported by:

Find a WPA Benchmark Approved treater:

www.thewpa.org.uk Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

23

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  JAMES JONES & SONS

All Timber Bases Covered

James Jones & Sons Ltd have been at the forefront of the UK timber industry for generations and are constantly innovating and expanding. We spoke to them about recent company activity and about what shape they find the timber market in.

W

hat will the recent acquisition of GT Timber bring

Raw material prices are increasing globally and higher prices

to James Jones’s annual sawn output?

are reflected in the timber pallet and packaging industry, due to

The acquisition will increase our annual sawn output

the impact of COVID, Brexit and wider global material demands

to 800,000m3 thereby consolidating our position as the

etc – how is James Jones & Sons tackling this and maintaining availability and supply across the UK?

UK’s largest privately owned sawmill, timber engineering and pallet

It has been well documented that timber prices are rising rapidly

manufacturing company. “We are delighted to have concluded this transaction,” says Tom Bruce-Jones, chairman of James Jones & Sons

worldwide. The primary reasons being high demand from USA and

Ltd. “We are really pleased that the existing management team are

China which is diverting Scandinavian and German timber away from

staying on within the enlarged group to provide continuity, facilitate

European markets. The situation in the UK is exacerbated by the decline

the integration and to help realise our long term strategic plans. The

in Irish timber imports due to felling licence difficulties in the Republic

sawn output from both mills will complement our portfolio and will

of Ireland. This difficult situation in timber supply has severely impacted

allow us to offer increased product opportunities for our existing, and

on the UK pallet and packaging manufacturing and repair sector. In

newly expanded, customer base.”

addition to the ‘supply side’ issues, there is very strong demand from the construction and fencing markets which compete for the material

Can you say more about how the Pallet and Packaging Division

required for pallets and packaging. The industry is working effectively

operates across the UK – James Jones & Sons manufactures

through its industry associations (TIMCON in UK and FEFPEB in Europe)

pallets and packaging as well as inspects and repairs – how

to communicate to clients the severe impact of this unprecedented

does that work and what is involved?

situation (timber represents an average over 70% of the cost of new pallets). The industry has also to contend with rapidly increasing steel

We have 16 Pallet & Packaging sites across the UK. Our pallet and

price increases, along with the impact of Covid-19 and Brexit.

packaging operations have progressively expanded over recent years through organic growth and acquisition and today we work closely with all the major UK pallet pools CHEP, LPR, IPP and EPAL. Through our

Can you explain what the Upall ‘innovative pallet’ is and how it

continued investment in automated technology we can offer customers

protects pallets and extends lifespan?

Upall protects the most frequently damaged areas of pallets.

access to the most advanced pallet manufacturing and repair facilities in the UK, a national distribution network and a complete range of

Robust guards are attached to new, high quality and kiln-dried

pallet and specialist timber packaging solutions.

wooden Euro pallets, ensuring maximum protection from impact,

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

24

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  JAMES JONES & SONS

extending the lifespan by more than three times, whilst minimising

2030 and 2050 net zero carbon targets are part of everyone’s

maintenance costs and ensuring the pallet remains in constant use. All

long term thinking across the timber and construction industry

materials are fully recyclable.

– how is James Jones & Sons addressing these?

The Lockerbie ‘super site’ is one of the most technologically

fundamental part of our Group ethos and strategy. We have been at the

advanced wood processing facilities in Europe – why is that

forefront of innovation with regards to all environmental matters for a

and what is used as a comparison?

number of years and have pioneered a number of innovative processes

Enhancing our environmental impact has always been a

and systems to enhance our carbon negative credentials.

The Stevens Croft site at Lockerbie offers a wider specification of round timber not only in the UK, but also in Europe. The development

We have carried out a lot of life cycle assessment (LCA) and

of the site, including the Hangingshaw facility, has adopted the most

environmental product declarations (EPD) work, to promote the

advanced sawmill and processing facilities that are not only comparable

greater use of our sustainable wood products and where possible to

with sites in Europe, but over the world as a whole with a total wood

substitute non-sustainable materials for sustainable wood products.

requirement of 600,000 tonnes of logs, combined with the adjacent

One of our key sustainability elements is the use of the PAS 2050:2011

facilities Forest Garden and EON/AWJ exceeding 1.5 million tonnes

carbon reporting model, supported by Ecometrica, the UK’s leading

which is comparable with large scale sites elsewhere in Europe.

greenhouse gas accounting and compliance specialists.

The JJI Joists assembly line at the Timber Systems Division has

uniquely demonstrates that the carbon captured during tree growth is

been hugely successful – what quantities are being produced and

greater than the carbon used to deliver, manufacture and supply our

where are the successful market segments for the products?

timber products. Not only does this enable key trigger impacts to be

The carbon model measures our overall carbon balance, which

identified and reduced, but our resulting carbon negative footprint can

Our world leading JJI-Joist assembly line, based at Forres, has the capacity to produce 20 million lineal metres a year. We have

be applied to supply contract volumes and individual house designs, to

45% market share in the UK and provide to most of the major UK

complement client corporate social responsibility (CSR) requirements in

housebuilders. We are continuing to invest in our product lines with two

a meaningful and robust manner.

major upgrades planned in 2021 and a recent land acquisition allowing What developments are expected in the next 18 months from

us to expand and improve operations and service to customers.

a company perspective and how do you see the timber market

We continue to innovate with new products and have recently

moving throughout 2021?

launched Insulated JJI-Joists, which is an innovative addition to our I-Joist range. The OSB Is covered with Stylite PlusTherm. This

We have a rolling programme of capital expenditure in plant and

considerably increases insulation performance, minimises thermal

machinery, ensuring further sector leading efficiencies. These include

bridging and can be drilled for convenience, vastly reducing labour time

further expansion of our I-Joist facilities at Forres and redevelopment of

and cost. They are also perfect for offsite construction.

the Mosstodloch sawmill. We recently completed the installation of a new low pressure timber treatment facility at Mosstodloch The plant, which

Can you say a little about the adoption of digital technology

was supplied and installed by Tweddle Engineering, will double the capacity

across the Group such as the Hi vision virtual reality (VR)

of low pressure treatment in the Group. The new facility will complement

system for log loading?

our existing low pressure plant at Aboyne in Deeside, enhancing our service offer to existing customers and where possible, enabling us to

Our mission has always been to be at the forefront of research

develop new customers across Scotland and Northern England.

and innovation and we are very proud to have pioneered a number of

Further investments are also planned for the GT Timber sites at Annan

innovative, ground-breaking products. We are constantly looking for new opportunities to enhance our research and development programme and

and Durham with continued expansion and investment in Pallets and

to lead the timber industry by example. We have implemented a number

Packaging Division. James Jones & Sons is committed to plant 2.5 thousand

of innovative industry leading initiatives to improve the health, safety and

hectares of new woodland by 2025 and will see over 600 hectares planted

welfare of drivers. These include the Hi Vision VR loading system, which

in the next 18 months, as both commercial and amenity woodlands for

allows drivers to have total crane control from the safety of their cab as

future timber production and carbon sequestration for the Group.

well as developments in tyre pressure technology through Tirbos and More at  www.jamesjones.co.uk

tracker/directional navigation with Navman.

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

25

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  FORESTRY R&D TAX CREDITS

Claim for Your Innovation

Businesses in the forestry sector are potentially missing out on an average of £48,000 in R&D tax credit savings. Dominic Bartholdi, Head of Business Development at R&D tax specialists GovGrant explains more.

W

ith HMRC data revealing

•

that the UK agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors

Implementation of scientific biology and geology

and activity

•

Disease prevention

R&D tax credit claims, those operating in

•

Management of forestland, including use

whether they might be eligible. In the

•

UK companies are able to claim tax relief for their R&D activity. The schemes, for

•

Looking at why pollination is low over the past few years, tracking bee populations

made up just over 1% of UK

the industry are encouraged to consider

•

advancements, including hydrology,

If there’s a moment where something

of high-tech surveying and analysis tools

unexpected has impacted your land

Post-harvest advancements to process

management whether through disease,

raw materials into products

climate change, pollution or any other factor,

Hydrological and biological research.

then any time spent looking into why this

SMEs and larger companies, are both

may be the case could be qualifying R&D. Any

administered by HMRC. Typically SMEs get

Even when businesses are already claiming

machinery you’ve tweaked for working in a

back up to 33% of the amount they’ve spent

R&D tax credits, they might not have fully

woodland or park, to improve a particular

on qualifying R&D. Large companies could

explored the potential of that claim. For

function or purpose specific to its situation,

get more than 10% of their R&D spending

example, we had an agricultural client who

could be R&D. Anything you’ve tried as a way

refunded.

hadn’t considered a key project as R&D. In this

to save money or drive efficiency – whether

case, day-to-day work was carried out to monitor

it worked or not. Either way, it could be

innovation tax credit only suited to those in

the crops under specific trial conditions and

qualifying activity.

white lab coats and in digital sectors, but in

collect data, and that was time spent on R&D.

reality it’s applicable to any business that has

It was similar with indirect personnel who were

More at: HMRC data – Research and

developed and used innovation in its process.

working to enable that R&D.

development tax credits

The misconception is that it’s an

 www.gov.uk/government/statistics/

Here HMRC defines innovation in terms

So much activity that could be considered

of overcoming scientific or technological

good forest management practice would qualify

corporate-tax-research- and-development-

uncertainty, something that couldn’t be

as R&D – for instance, gaining insight into growth

tax-credit  www.govgrant.co.uk

worked out easily by a professional in the

conditions, discovering novel ways to improve

field. It can even be applied to for tax savings

yield or ways to save money on the management

on innovation that has failed.

of forestland. In agriculture, forestry, and fishing

There are five broad categories which

there are so many examples where we’ve seen

can classify forestry R&D claims: staff costs,

specific innovations which were all qualifying

subcontractors, externally provided works

expenditure for R&D tax credits:

(EPWs), software and consumables like heat, •

light and power. kinds are now benefiting from refinement

Tracking pests and response to different pest control processes

We know that forestry businesses of all •

Investigating new ways to use waste

through technology. R&D tax claims can come

materials in a novel bioreactor as a means

from process improvements, production

to reduce energy costs

improvement and scalability and quality

•

How different varieties of tree grow and

control. And we see this happening in all

respond in the same/different growth

aspects of agriculture, including:

conditions

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

26

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FOR TIMBER THAT KEEPS OUR FORESTS STRONG, ® CHOOSE FSC Our forests give us many things, including a huge variety of timber and timber products.

FSC helps look after forests and the people and wildlife who call them home. So you can use timber, panels and other forest products while keeping our forests full of life. www.fsc-uk.org

FSC®F000231

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

27

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  MATERIALS HANDLING

New Truck on the Block Hubtex has unveiled the world’s first fully-automated electric multidirectional sideloader for handling long, heavy and bulky goods – the ‘customer-specific’ PhoeniX AGV.

T

he basic model of the new PhoeniX electric

cantilever racks, walls or columns. The combined data from the scanners

multidirectional sideloader was designed by Hubtex for

creates an interactive, virtual map of the warehouse. This map is then

step-by-step automation utilising full electric steering,

used to determine the precise position of the Phoenix AGV within the hall

enabling longer operating times due to its lower

and pinpoint the position of the storage location.

energy consumption. Now the manufacturer has developed the fully Reliable detection of long loads

automated PhoeniX AGV based on this core product.

“We are not simply launching yet another AGV solution,” explains

Another unique selling point is the patented long goods detection

Hans-Joachim Finger, managing director of sales and purchasing at

function. This enables long goods to be reliably detected and picked up,

Hubtex. “We are entering a niche market where there are currently very

with the travel range adjusted accordingly. Unevenly distributed loads

few automated solutions – the handling of long, heavy and bulky loads.

or profiles of different lengths can be seen in the detection area of the

The PhoeniX is a perfect example of how the concept can be transferred

certified sensors. The load contour facing the truck is scanned for this

to our entire range of Hubtex trucks with electric drive.” The Phoenix

purpose. The truck detects barcodes to carry out a plausibility check of

AGV has a unique ability to recognise various long goods that protrude

the transport order and detects vacant spaces which can be accessed

beyond the truck, which is crucial for multidirectional sideloaders. The

by the forks to pick up the load. Accurately determining the load length

truck also includes dynamic mapping, precise positioning, and block

is of great importance. If the load is significantly longer than the truck,

storage as standard.

protection zones and routes will need to be adjusted accordingly.

Object-based navigation

Overcoming future intralogistics challenges

Using object-based navigation, Hubtex combines the data from

As the requirements of intralogistics continue to grow, so does the

navigation sensors, personal protection sensors and machine protection

focus on the partial or full automation of warehouse processes and their

sensors. The personal protection sensors maintain a horizontal protective

flexibility. Hubtex therefore relies on an integrative concept whereby the

zone in the direction of travel. The driving speed is automatically reduced

solution is individually tailored to the customer. “With our broad range

until the truck comes to a stop if a person or an object appears in the

of automation technologies and extensive truck concepts for various

warning field. In addition, the personal protection scanners are used to

handling tasks, we adapt our designs to the requirements of our core

accurately steer the AGV into the storage aisle.

industries such as woodworking, steel or automotive,” says Hans-Joachim

As well as the personal protection scanners, the truck is fitted with

Finger. “Our consultants determine the suitable level of automation for

machine protection scanners that protect against collisions. Since the

each individual user and calculate the resulting costs. By asking intuitive

personal protection scanner only monitors a one-dimensional scanning

questions right from the outset, we are able to provide a coherent and

plane at a low height, objects protruding into the path of the truck,

extremely cost-effective AGV solution.”

for example, cannot be detected. A further navigation scanner acts as More at  www.hubtex.com

an additional safeguard by identifying objects in the vicinity such as Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

28

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

29

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  TIMBER TREATMENT

Understanding the Jargon and Protecting the Supply Chain

Timber often receives a negative press from the wider building industry due to its perceived limitations when it comes to its reaction to fire – using the correct Fire Retardant (FR) treatment makes an enormous difference.

W

ith the correct treatment, timber has excellent FR

DOP’s are species specific. Different species have different cell

properties and its reaction to fire is extremely low.

structures and/or densities which can have a significant effect on the

Industry regulations are in place to protect people’s

quantity of chemical required during pressure impregnation. As a result,

safety, health and welfare. However, sometimes it can

the FR treatment process varies depending on the species in terms of

be confusing. Reaction to fire is how the material will allow a fire

treatment time and pressure. It is therefore essential that the species

to spread and is a consideration in buildings where evacuation time

details are provided by the treater’s customer and the treater has the

is critical, and Resistance to fire is how the material will perform

appropriate DOP to allow them to treat the specific species in question.

when on fire, i.e. how long will it retain its structural integrity. This is Understanding COP and DOP Documents

particularly important for floors and ceilings where the material may lose its integrity causing it to collapse.

Typical COP and DOP will contain the following information:

Below is a quick guide to help explain the jargon.

• •

• •

Product: details of the timber species – e.g. Larch: what it is, e.g.

FR treated solid wood (timber cladding) and plywood must

solid wood panel, tongue and groove profiled; and what fire

be supplied with a CE mark as a legal requirement under the

retardant treatment has been used e.g. Burnblock. Classification

Construction Products Regulation (CPR) EU no. 305/2011

is valid for the end use as cladding or as support for cladding

The relevant harmonised standards are BS EN 14915:2013 (solid

elements

wood) and BS EN 13986:2004 (plywood).

•

Thickness: what is the nominal thickness of the material i.e. 21,5mm

If a product has a CE mark, it means that the method in which it

•

Density: what is the timbers nominal density range i.e. 650 - 750 kg/

has been produced and the properties of the product meet certain

m3

criteria as defined in the harmonised standards.

•

Intake: how much dry FR material must be absorbed in line with the approved factory control process. Dry amount of FR 36.5 kg/m3

As with the above standards, there are stringent processes that

•

must be followed when treating timber. The manufacturer or person

Substrate: details of the substrate that must be used to mount the timber onto any substrates in classes A1 and A2-s1, d0 of at least 9

significantly altering the product (this would be a timber treater in

mm thickness and with a density equal to or greater than 653kg/m3

the case of FR treatment) must have a clearly defined manufacturing

•

process. This process must be audited by a notified body which will

Fixation: how cladding should be fastened, e.g. mechanically fixed to the substrate

initially grant certification. They will also be responsible for ongoing

•

surveillance to ensure the accreditation is maintained.

Air gap details of whether an air gap (typically 40mm) behind the panel is required

The FR chemical manufacturer will provide the treater with a

•

fire classification report, by species, which is issued and audited by

Mounting: how panels can be mounted, e.g. horizontally, vertically or both

a notified body under Assessment and Verification of Constancy of

•

Performance (AVCP) system 1. The notified body can then audit the

Joints: how panels can be joined e.g. vertical, horizontal joints or both

treater under AVCP system 1 against the FR classification report. They

•

can then grant the FR treater with a CE certification for their process.

Reaction: reaction to fire classification: what rating has been provided for the above conditions, e.g. B-s1,d0.

This comes in the form of a Certificate of Consistency of Performance (CoCOP) and allows the treater to issue their customers with a

FR treatment is also species specific. Generic terms such as Far

Declaration of Performance (DOP) with each supplied batch of treated

Eastern plywood, softwood and hardwood are ambiguous and do not

timber. The DOP ensures full traceability of the FR treated timber when

meet the requirements of an FR Classification Report and therefore not

it enters the supply chain. AVCP is a harmonised system defining how

CE compliant.

to assess products and control the constancy of the assessment results.

More at  www.wj-group.co.uk  www.trada.co.uk

This system safeguards the reliability and accuracy of the DOP. Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

30

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

6118

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

31

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  DECKING

Timber Decking to the Rescue The events of the last 12 months have certainly made us redefine how we regard our private outdoor spaces. Forced to spend long periods of time cooped up at home, these spaces have become our havens, increasingly important for mental health and wellbeing.

I

t seems more and more of us have turned our

many retailers reporting record year turnovers, re-enforcing the

attentions to improving our gardens, seeing them more

enduring popularity of wood. The Timber Decking & Cladding

as an extension to the home. And natural and easy to

Association (TDCA) shares this love affair with wood – knowing

use timber appears to be the material of choice.

all too well of its versatile, tactile and environmentally friendly qualities.

The huge increase in demand for timber decking has resulted in

 Case Study: Soft colour makes a bold statement The Minnie family wanted to create a

‘Dolphin’ grey with ‘Charcoal’ black around

modern but simplistic space to wind down

the border. This tied in nicely with their

during the evening and were looking for

black window frames and meant the

a product that offered something a bit

modern, minimalistic look was consistent

different – they found IRO from BSW

throughout the house and garden. The

Timber.

family were drawn to the smooth feel

IRO means ‘colour’ in Japanese.

of the IRO deck board, especially under

Inspired by the ancient Japanese method

barefoot and that’s also the beauty of a

of charring timber – Yakisugi, IRO is heat

timber deck – in the summer months it

enhanced and coated in wood cream

doesn’t get unbearably hot. With the aid

resulting in a striking grain appearance.

of the IRO ‘touch-up’ colour product their

IRO is available in a range of 10 colours,

deck can be refreshed years down the

IRO is DeckMark approved and is also

including driftwood white, poppy red

line, making it look as new for many more

available as a cladding product – learn

and lagoon blue. The Minnie family chose

summers to come.

more here  www.irotimber.co.uk

IRO deck boards in Dolphin and Charcoal

 Case Study: Durability and sustainability in the heart of Glencoe ‘Luxury Wee Lodges’ use Gripsure’s Premier

Already five years in situ and the European

anti-slip timber decking, to provide the

Redwood Pine deck boards look great

perfect veranda of each cabin and around

and are performing well. Gripsure’s

the hot tubs, with boardwalks and steps

Premier anti-slip decking offers a 10-year

weaving guests through the trees and

warranty and carries the TDCA DeckMark

safely up to their accommodation.

Plus accreditation which means it has

Gripsure Premier deck boards, images courtesy of Woodlands Glencoe.

The brief was to find a product

undergone additional specific technical

which offered durability in the harsh

or safety evaluations by a recognised

and wet winter conditions and beauty to

quantitative procedure, in this case slip

compliment the surrounding area. Timber

resistance testing. It is important for any

is of course a great choice – specified

decking project which includes steps, is

correctly it provides many years of service

under trees, will encounter heavy footfall

and offers a sustainable option when it

or will not be kept clean, to ensure safety

Learn more about Gripsure products

comes to selecting a building material.

through the use of anti-slip measures.

here  www.gripsure.co.uk

TDCA exists to provide key support and information to help ensure that all decks are built to a high standard, using quality materials.

Through our growing membership we can promote accredited suppliers, products and installers who share our passion to build decks the right way with durable materials. More at  www.tdca.org.uk

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

32

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

For independent guidance on your next project Ensure your timber decking or cladding is fit for purpose through design, specification, material choice and installation. Whatever the size of your project, TDCA can offer: - an accredited materials and supplier database - impartial and expert help by phone or email - inspiration, through galleries and case studies - inspection & expert witness services - free downloadable resources including our NEW

Timber Cladding Handbook

email: info@tdca.org.uk visit: www.tdca.org.uk The Timber Decking and Cladding Association is an independent, not-for-profit technical and advisory body. It was established to promote the materials, design and installation practices required to create good quality decks, associated landscape structures and cladding on buildings.

Anti-slip Plus smooth deckboards from Marley, installed by Deckbuilders UK.

SPRING AT LAST! LET’S ALL GET OUT THERE Finally we can get back out in the garden again. Restore your wood to tip-top condition with our range of quality decking and exterior wood cleaners, renovators and preservers.

All made in the UK too, so you can be sure you’re doing your bit to get us all back on the sunny side of the street.

Head Office: Unit G16, River Bank Way, Lowfields Business Park, Elland, West Yorkshire HX5 9DN Tel: +44(0)1422 315300, Email: salesuk@bonditgroup.com, www.bonditgroup.com

SILICONES • SEALANTS • PU FOAMS • ADHESIVES • BUILDING CHEMICALS • TILE ADHESIVES & GROUTS • PLUMBING SOLUTIONS • BITUMENS

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

33

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  MARKET DEMAND

Product Availability Pressures

As has been reported widely in recent months, the shortage of raw materials entering the UK has seen reduced volumes and increased costs across the board with timber prices increasing.

T

hese problems have been intensified by Brexit, alongside

their outdoor building. According to reports in ThisIsMoney, shoppers

general port and freight movement complications. Also,

in the UK could pay up to 50% more for their garden sheds due to the

with timber in short supply across North America in

global shortage of timber.

particular, sawmill closure and the effects of Covid-19

“We’re now in the second year of timber shortages and the impact

lockdowns have slowed production to a snail’s pace, seeing global

is beginning to be felt,” said Charles Walton, Kybotech founder. “We’ve

supply and demand under pressure. In the USA, the price of timber has

had two consecutive warm winters which has meant considerably less

risen by more than 180% since the Spring of 2020.

timber being felled and resulting in a massive global shortage. Other

A joint statement on UK product availability from the Builders

factors have come into play too which have compounded the problem.

Merchants Federation (BMF) and Construction Products Association

Combined they have the potential to push up timber prices by as much

(CPA) in early March stated that: “Builders and builders’ merchants

as 50% and at some point a proportion of that cost will be passed on to

alike are being adversely affected by limited availability in a number

the consumer. At some point and as the shortage worsens, we will be

of important product groups. The continuing impact of Covid is one of

left with little choice but to increase our prices.”

several factors behind the shortages and price increases but the overall

However, the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) reported that softwood

picture is more complex.”

is spearheading a ‘timber import resurgence’. Despite imports of

Talking of timber specifically they said: “Timber is a global

softwood falling by 24% in Q1/Q2 of 2020, the volume of softwood

commodity and there is an imbalance between global demand and

imports ended up 3% higher than 2019. This came after 4.9 million m3

supply that is not likely to be resolved in the near future. The UK must

was imported between August and December 2020. Hardwood imports,

be prepared for higher prices to continue. European production was far

plywood, MDF, and OSB all saw similar trends meaning the cumulative

lower in 2020 compared to 2019 (Swedish production down 7%, stocks

total for all timber imports in 2020 was just 3% lower than 2019.

down 27%: Finnish production down 15%). UK imports of softwood

David Hopkins, CEO of the Timber Trade Federation (TTF), said:

during the first nine months of 2020 were also down, by 20% in volume.

“After the first lockdown in March last year the timber industry, just

Production shortages were exacerbated by extremely high demand

like the rest of the UK economy, came to a near standstill, and the

from the USA – which will continue throughout 2021.

volume of timber being imported fell sharply. Meanwhile, demand

“The Chinese timber market, which was supressed during Covid, is now

increased dramatically, both in commercial construction – which has

rising with imports of softwood at their highest ever levels. Furthermore,

managed to carry on during the pandemic – and domestic projects, as

both the US and China are prepared to pay far more for timber. In the US,

so many people were forced to spend more time at home and spent

the price of a benchmark 4x2 softwood product rose by 149% last year.

their disposable income on refurbishment rather than holidays or other

European mills are back at full capacity, but the increased demand means

bigger ticket items. It has led to timber becoming one of the most

that customers are on allocation, and the situation is likely to get worse in

sought after commodities in the UK. The higher levels of import should

Q3 following holiday shutdowns in July and August.”

help ease some of the pressure we have seen between supply and

The pandemic has also seen DIY and home projects soar with

demand, though we do expect the tight conditions to continue well

many retailers running low on stock of timber garden furniture. Shed

into 2021.”

manufacturer Kybotech is warning consumers that prices will rocket as More at  www.constructionproducts.org.uk  www.ttf.co.uk

summer approaches with customers potentially left waiting months for Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

34

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

Grow Your Business Timber Media has launched our e-marketing service for advertisers.

With over 5,000 timber industry business professional contacts, we can send your bespoke, solus e-newsletter to top decision makers in our industry... but be quick, the service is limited to one e-newsletter per week which will be mailed on a Monday to our mailing list.

A second e-newsletter will be sent the following Thursday to engage contacts who opened but did not click the links. You’ll then receive a statistics report for the two e-newsletters the following Monday.

All for a set price of only £500 (+vat)

To book your slot today email terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

35

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

Advertise with Timber Media’s Products & Services

For more information call Terry Hanlon on 01925 270093 or email terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

Garden rooms made beautiful with SterlingOSB Zero

DO WE LIKE TIMBER?

With more and more people working and studying at home, the need for extra space has grown enormously. Whether it’s somewhere to make Zoom calls in peace, or to chill after a long day juggling home-schooling, or to get on your bike, a garden room has become a muchsought after addition to many homes.

This is good news for companies like H M Garden Rooms in Buckinghamshire. Having searched for garden offices for themselves, and finding a limited choice of well-priced, good quality options, Jordan Hickson and Jordan Marsh, both with over 20 years’ experience in the construction industry, set up H M Garden Rooms. Using quality materials, they produce a range of built-to-last, aesthetically-pleasing garden buildings that their clients have put to a multitude of uses.

Yes we do, in fact that’s all we do! So, when you’re

One of the top-quality materials the company relies on for these structures is Norbord’s SterlingOSB Zero. As Director Jordan Hickson explains “SterlingOSB Zero is easier to use and lighter but just as strong as plywood. It throws up no challenges so we are able to get the job done with no fuss. It’s also cheaper than ply and readily available so it ticks a lot of boxes for us and we’ll continue to use it in our builds”.

planning your next marketing campaign drop me

All of H M Garden Room’s buildings are clad in a variety of beautiful materials but Jordan has found that clients are increasingly asking for the SterlingOSB Zero to be left exposed on the interior as part of the design finish. “A recent client wanted the printed side of the OSB left bare inside their mud room as they really like the utilitarian feel of the material”, Jordan explained.

e-marketing, web advertising and our new

an email at terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk or call me on 01925 270093. Magazine advertising, comprehensive Products & Services listings can all be found on our website www.timbermedia.co.uk

H M Garden Rooms purchases SterlingOSB Zero from local builders’ merchants Travis Perkins and Grant & Stone branches in the Home Counties, depending on the project location.

To find out more about Norbord’s full range of carbon negative panel products visit the website and you can download a product guide and can even order free samples.

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit www.norbord.co.uk

Timber Trader UK Magazine

Spring 2021

36

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

Five generations of timber trading

Our investments for engaged partnerships

Post Brexit: we set up a company in the UK – Vandecasteele Timber LTD to facilitate our collaboration with UK partners

Using timber tackles climate change

Huge stock in certified timber: 120,000 m3, more than 140 different species.

2025 – our aim is to trade in Certified timber only from 2025 onwards

Contact Bergstraat 25 8511 Aalbeke Belgium vandecasteele.be

genevieve@vandecasteele.be +32 56 43 33 00 dave@vandecasteele.be +44 15 94 83 43 32

Get Lost

There’s nothing James loves more than to lose himself in our warehouse, amongst over 16,000 cubic metres of imported hardwoods and premium grade softwoods to find the perfect pack for you.

Better, connected. www.timberconnection.co.uk

Sole distributors of LIGNIA to the UK and Republic of Ireland and designated supplier of LIGNIA Yacht to Europe.