FEATURE: CLADDING & DECKING
Sharing Timber Market Expertise Late in 2019 the Timber Decking and Cladding Association (TDCA) and The Timber Trade Federation (TTF) joined forces under a partnership agreement aimed at strengthening the market for timber cladding and decking.
T
he partnership will work similarly to the agreement currently
experts who can provide them with the resources to achieve their
in place between TDCA and the Wood Protection Association
current objectives on both cladding and decking,”
(WPA) and the three bodies will work together on projects
TDCA and TTF will work together on planned projects of mutual
of mutual interest whilst still maintaining their individual
interest that can benefit members of both organisations, wider target
identities and operating as independent trade bodies.
audiences and the general benefit of the timber industry. As well
The TTF’s membership includes timber importers, merchants,
as scheduled meetings, paths cross regularly at industry events and
agents and manufacturers and covers a large proportion of all the
trade meetings, so when the potential for working together or sharing
products and timber technologies that operate within the sector.
knowledge arise, they can make the most of the opportunity.
TDCA is a smaller, technically orientated organisation but a proportion
The partnership will initially focus on specifier and buyer education to
of members also support the TTF or do business with TTF member
raise awareness and confidence in the timber cladding and decking sectors.
companies – sharing common ground. “By aligning with TTF, TDCA
The move aligns with TTF’s plans to focus on market-facing educational
will extend its reach,” said Janet Sycamore, director of operations at
activities. A series of TTF working groups are looking in depth at cladding,
TDCA. “In turn, the TTF recognises the value of the TDCA, as industry
flooring and engineered wood products sectors. Output from these groups
Style on Show at Newmarket Barn Home James Latham supplied charred Accoya and Western Red Cedar which has been used as cladding in the part rebuilding, extension and conversion of a former agricultural building to create a barn-style home in Newmarket. Cambridge-based NP Architects, an award-winning RIBA Chartered Practice, was commissioned to carry out the conversion and Arnold & Willis Construction was appointed as the main contractor. The main steel-framed barn has been retained as a double height space and re-clad in corrugated steel, whilst the lower wings have been rebuilt in a courtyard arrangement and clad in charred
Justin Hayward, James Latham’s technical timber sales
Accoya. Large openings have been introduced to frame views and
development manager, added: “The reaction to Shou Sugi Ban
form a strong connection with the wider landscape from within.
from the market has been astonishing, it really does have the
Charred timber cladding is a modern application of the ancient
wow factor and enquiries and indeed orders are growing by the
Japanese art of charring timber to provide a beautiful and long-
day. Charred timber cladding is becoming increasingly popular in
lasting timber cladding and this is a technique that Shou Sugi Ban
the specification market. Traditional techniques are used to give
has perfected. Hidden from the exterior view is a centrally located
uniqueness to each individual project and there are lots of finishes
courtyard, where a change of materials offers a softer palette
and textures available for both interior and exterior projects – from
giving a more homely feel. The raw unfinished Western Red Cedar
the traditional , highly charred, heavily textured looking cladding to
creates a unique and distinctive fragrance.
the sleek and contemporary finish.
Spring 2020
12 www.timbermedia.co.uk
