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SUMMER 2021 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2515–8686 (PRINT)
PIVETEAUBOIS 16 CHANGING THE TIMBER MINDSET 22
HOUSEBUILDING HIGHLIGHTS 28
Vastern Timber’s Tom Barnes on homegrown wood, thermal modification and market forces
AIMCH publishes its second-year progress report on timber homes and better placemaking
Image © Alexa Phillips
A range of French timber solutions deliver a beautiful home on the River Tamar
Are you an engineering or architecture student and want to measure yourself against design professionals? Take part in the competition and design your timber multi-storey structure with our most innovative products! You can win a tour that will start from our Italian headquarters and will end with the participation in the Mass Timber Seminar and the prestigious Forum Holzbau in Innsbruck, two of the most important events in the world of timber construction. ARE YOU READY FOR THE CHALLENGE? buildtheimpossible.rothoblaas.com
TIMBER CONSTRUCTION ISSUE 16 CONTENTS
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12
14
News........................................................................................02
16
18
The latest news and views from across the industry.
The Key to Net Zero...........................................................12 John Smith, technical director at Stewart Milne Timber Systems, highlights why a ‘fabric first’ approach is the best solution for the housebuilding industry to become carbon neutral by 2050. Image © Alexa Phillips
Reducing Energy Consumption....................................14 The UK’s net zero targets can only be achieved if its housing stock is improved and made more energy efficient. One Yorkshire developer is doing just that with the help of specialist insulation.
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22
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28
Cover Story: PIVETEAUBOIS..........................................16 Working with a specialist timber framing company, PIVETEAUBOIS used a range of engineered timber products to create a beautiful home at Wier Quay on the banks of the River Tamar in South West England.
Showcasing Structural Timber......................................18 James Jones & Sons have just completed a new dynamic, functional and attractive timber visitor building at its flagship Lockerbie site.
Measuring Value.................................................................20 Today’s modified woods are able to meet many of the constituents of value now being demanded by specifiers and are easily available to provide a range of construction solutions.
Changing the Timber Mindset......................................22 Vastern Timber is the largest hardwood saw-milling company in the UK. We spoke to managing director, Tom Barnes about homegrown wood, thermal modification and supply and demand.
Boards of Protection..........................................................26 Engineered wood-based panel products have many flexible functions including construction site security.
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
AIMCH Publish Progressive Results...........................28
Follow Timber Media:
Wales. Company Number 10839173.
AIMCH, the innovation consortium set up to transform the housebuilding sector, has published its second-year progress report.
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The Perfect Partner for the Timber Industry combilift.com Timber Trader UK magazine 185 x 62 Liz May2021.indd 1
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Southwark Council gives hybrid timber tower green light Transport for London (TfL) has been given the go-ahead by
hybrid timber towers in the UK, allowing it to also achieve industry-leading
Southwark Council to build what is set to be one of the most
embodied carbon reductions of 40% compared to LETI’s business-as-usual
sustainable large-scale office developments in the UK above
benchmark. The building will be the first designed globally to directly
Southwark Tube station.
extract waste heat from the Tube station below to help heat it and
The 17-storey hybrid timber building, which has been designed by
minimise its energy consumption. Alongside next-generation air source
architects, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, forms part of TfL’s commercial
heat pumps, solar panels and high-performance building materials, the
development programme. It will be rented out on a commercial basis,
development will achieve a 44% reduction in operational carbon emissions.
helping TfL to create sustainable and long-term revenue that can be
Combined with green power purchasing agreements and carbon offsets,
reinvested into the transport network. Positioned above Southwark
the building will achieve net zero at practical completion and enable its
Tube station, the scheme will retain the much-loved station entrance,
tenants to reduce their environmental footprint.
ticket hall, and lightwells down to the Jubilee line platforms while paying homage to TfL’s legacy of innovative and iconic design. The scheme will create a new landmark for the area, providing
Scott Anderson, Head of Property Development at TfL, said: “Sustainability has been a core focus during the development process, alongside meaningful community engagement, to make sure that we
around 26,500sqm of commercial office space alongside more than
build something that will make a long-term, beneficial difference as
230sqm of retail space on the ground floor. The development, which
the city and businesses embark upon a green recovery. Down to the
is anticipated to be completed in the mid-2020s, will offer a central
construction materials used for the building and the placement of
London base to a range of businesses and industries that are looking to
colours, the development’s features have been chosen to reflect and
be part of London’s green recovery.
complement the local area and make it something TfL, Southwark and
The development has been designed to showcase best practice
the local community can be proud of.”
in sustainable design and development. Designed to achieve both
Paul Monaghan, Founding Director at Allford Hall Monaghan Morris,
BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum certifications, a feat achieved
added: “We are delighted that the proposal has received planning
by only one building in the UK to date, the scheme will stand among
approval. This project will see the creation of new office and retail
the most sustainable office buildings in the world. It will also achieve
spaces – including affordable workspace – and bring new opportunities
net zero carbon in line with United Kingdom Green Building Council and
to the local area. The building includes a range of low carbon
London Energy Transformation Initiative definitions through a number
innovations and aims to achieve the highest environmental standards.
of outstanding environmental features.
We look forward to working with TfL on the next stage of the project.
At 75m tall with a cross laminated timber (CLT) design, the over More at www.tfl.gov.uk www.ahmm.co.uk
station development at Southwark would become one of the tallest
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Introducing the new
TIMBERMEDIA.CO.UK Your source for all things Timber, with more news, features and resources. We’ve redesigned our website to give you a better experience – whether you’re a reader, advertiser, marketeer or work in the timber sector, Timber Media is for you.
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
TTF launch new member CCPI guide The Timber Trade Federation (TTF) has launched a detailed guide for its members to the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), including six key steps to assure business processes related to providing information and customer training are in line with the aspirations of the currently voluntary Code. The CCPI, due to start rolling out across the construction products sector during the summer, requires that product information provided through every channel, online and offline, in print and in person, adheres to five ‘acid tests’ and is: clear, accurate, unambiguous, up-to-date and accessible. It also requires that those preparing and presenting
undertaken some time ago, and will be updating guidance on people
information are competent ‘to the level required for their role’.
competence for the 21st century business world. We will be involving
“The Code takes a rigorous stance on the provision of product information and the competence of all those interacting with that
and reporting back to members regularly as this next phase of our engagement with CCPI progresses.”
information day-to-day,” says David Hopkins, TTF CEO. “We wish to make More at www.ttf.co.uk
sure that our members are aware of the depth of its requirements, and, even if not directly in the path of its initial wave of implementation, are ready to service their customers with unambiguous information, with product claims clearly backed up, and purveyed by provably-competent people, capable of giving requisite advice. “Many TTF members provide their customers with information,
DO WE LIKE TIMBER?
imagery and also training, particularly for customers in the builders’ merchant and specification sectors. Demonstrating the alignment of their business processes with those set down in the Code will help to show that they are operating to the highest standards of ethical and communications behaviour. This in turn breeds trust and confidence amongst all those working with our sector, underlining the principle of supplying ‘timber you can trust’.” TTF’s Guide to the CCPI is available only to members by logging into the member area of the TTF website. In addition to the basic guide, for those smaller companies who perhaps may not have systems in place to document the production, provision and regular review of information, a simple spreadsheet is provided for members to adapt. Although many TTF members have HR systems in place and policies which deal with questions of ethical behaviour and whistle blowing, again for those
Yes we do, in fact that’s all we do! So, when you’re
who may need a starting point, TTF has also created an accompanying business ethics tool and decision ‘tree’, for members to use or re-
planning your next marketing campaign drop me
formulate to reflect their own business practices and needs.
an email at terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk or
“In the light of the Grenfell tragedy, and the subsequent work
call me on 01925 270093. Magazine advertising,
of the Construction Leadership Council and Construction Products
e-marketing, web advertising and our new
Association in improving operating methods within construction, we are encouraging all members to ensure that they have documented
comprehensive Products & Services listings can all
systems around information creation, its use in sales, marketing and
be found on our website www.timbermedia.co.uk
training throughout their supply chains, and around the competency of their people. “We are additionally launching a review of job roles, mapped against available training and qualifications, reigniting work originally
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Wood Awards launches 2021 call for entries The Wood Awards: Excellence in British
been rising year upon year and it is a great
Architecture and Product Design has now
privilege to be able to assess, and learn from, the
launched its 2021 call for entries. Anyone
many exemplar projects being put forward for
involved in a UK-based wood project is invited
consideration.”
to enter and has until 25 June to submit their
The 2021 buildings categories will be confirmed
applications. There is no entry fee.
later this year, but they are likely to be Commercial
Established in 1971, the Wood Awards
& Leisure, Education & Public Sector, Interiors,
recognises, encourages and promotes outstanding
Private and Small Project. Other awards, such as
wood design, craftsmanship and installation
Structural and Existing Building awards, can be
throughout the UK. The Wood Awards’ elite
given at the judges’ discretion. With permission
independent judging panel not only judges all
from the owner, anyone associated with a building
submitted entries but also visits the shortlisted
or product completed in the last two years, can
projects in person, making the Wood Awards a
enter. Buildings must be located within the UK
uniquely rigorous competition. The Awards are split
whilst furniture and other products must have been
into two main categories: Furniture and Product and
either designed or manufactured in the UK. There
Buildings. The Gold Award is given to the project that the judges deem to be the winner of winners.
are no restrictions on the size or budget of a project.
Image © Jack Hobhouse
Entrants may submit more than one project.
Jim Greaves of Hopkins Architects has been
The 2021 shortlist will be announced in
appointed as chair of buildings judges, saying: “Having been a judge for
September. The Wood Awards has ambitious plans for a novel and
the last 17 years it is a great honour to be asked to chair the buildings
exciting finale to the competition, details of which will be announced
panel. Despite restrictive regulatory and insurance challenges, wood
in due course. Major Sponsors of the Wood Awards 2021 are American
has become an increasingly important construction material and it
Hardwood Export Council, The Carpenters’ Company and Timber Trade
is now often the first choice for architects, designers, engineers and
Federation. Other sponsors include American Softwoods and TRADA.
developers, offering lower carbon, biophilic, and regenerative solutions. More at www.woodawards.com
As a consequence, the standard of entries for the Wood Awards has
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Digital adoption accelerated among SME wood manufacturers Made Smarter’s technology adoption programme is deploying smart
“In that same spirit of innovation, as we tread a cautious roadmap
glasses to SME wood manufacturers to virtually fast track their
out of lockdown, and to minimise the spread of the virus, we have
digital adoption strategies and navigate Covid-19 restrictions.
developed virtual line walks. When it comes to how things are made
The wearable device enables technology specialists from Made
there is no substitute for seeing it for yourself, but the use of smart
Smarter to perform virtual end to end production line walks of factories
glasses is a fantastic alternative. They are specifically designed to keep
with a business as part of the digital transformation workshop (DTW)
both your hands free, letting the wearer demonstrate how things work,
process. These fully-funded, bespoke workshops are led by technology
what products look like, or easily show relevant paperwork.”
advisers who cut through the jargon to provide impartial advice to help
Made Smarter has different types of smart glasses to suit different
a business identify the most effective technologies to overcome their
requirements including: the Epson Moverio, Realwear HMT-, Vuzix
operational challenges.
Blade and Magic Leap. The glasses come with a 4G dongle to ensure
The virtual visit allows advisers to dial in to a conference call and
connectivity if there are WiFi or network coverage challenges. They
watch each manufacturing operation being performed in order. This
even work offline, which means manufacturers can record a video of
enables discussions around inputs, outputs, process control, and quality
the production line walk which can be reviewed later. The glasses are
performance in order to provide a clear picture of each businesses’
connected through Remote Eye software which enables a live stream
bespoke operation. The introduction of smart glasses has enabled
video and the opportunity to take high-definition screenshots which can
Made Smarter to overcome access restrictions and limitations caused
be tagged in a library for swift access. Viewers can also use a cursor to
by the pandemic to get the vital insights needed to support the
direct the wearer to any areas of interest and annotate the picture in
manufacturer’s digital transformation. It also gives manufacturers a
real time.
valuable opportunity to test how this emerging technology could be used in their business.
Digital transformation workshops identify other ways the Made Smarter programme can support a manufacturer including: fully-funded
Will Kinghorn, industrial digital technology advisor for Made
digital technology internships to help implement projects and bring
Smarter, said: “In the wake of the pandemic we redesigned our digital
a fresh perspective and new skills into the business, specialist advice
transformation workshops to continue delivery when in-person visits
about workforce development and skills and funding for new digital
were not possible. This approach has helped 141 manufacturers
tools and technologies such as data and systems integration, robotics
engage in a streamlined process designed to accelerate manufacturing
and automation or additive manufacturing.
growth by identifying digital tools and technologies that can maximise More at www.madesmarter.uk
operational processes.
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Combilift scoops 10th major Archie award Combilift, the Irish manufacturer of a wide range of handling solutions, has won its 10th prestigious industry award from the Forklift Truck Association for one of its latest products. The 2020 FLTA Awards for Excellence took place virtually on Saturday 10 April. The recently introduced Combi-CBE model – the world’s first counterbalance design, multidirectional forklift with electric drive on all of its three wheels, was one of the twelve finalists in the hotly
efficiency and AC drive means that there are no mechanical brushes to
contested Innovation Category. According to the host of this year’s
maintain or replace.
Awards, “This is the category that everyone wants to win, as you get to
Combining the benefits of very compact dimensions and the ability
feel incredibly clever.” So Combilift was immensely proud that the jury
to handle long loads as well as pallets, the multidirectional Combi-CBE
singled it out as the outright winner.
is a universal truck for multiple applications and offers cost-effective
The Combi-CBE features internationally patented electric traction
and efficient operation. It also answers growing market demand for
which enables independent control of each of the front and rear drive
powerful and quieter electric forklifts which comply with ever more
wheels and guarantees 100% traction control, which negates the need
stringent emissions guidelines. Combilift CEO and co-founder Martin
for differential lock when it is operating on wet or slippery surfaces. As
McVicar said: “Innovation is a cornerstone of Combilift’s product
the truck drives and steers, the speed and rotational direction of the
development and, given the large number of excellent finalists this
wheels are controlled independently. Operators benefit from precise
year, we would like to thank the FLTA jury of industry experts for
acceleration and deceleration control, which significantly reduces long
recognising our achievements.”
load momentum twisting when travelling sideways. Each electric drive More at www.www.combilift.com
incorporates parking and regenerative dynamic braking for power
Berry Systems design and install cladding for Colchester Hospital car park vertical fins were sourced from PEFC and FSC certified suppliers, offering a 30-year warranty against fungal decay. The car park required some specific industry standards associated with adjacent structures, using their extensive range of supply chain contacts, Berry managed to find a suitable composite panel system to achieve the employers’ requirements. “It was fantastic to work alongside Ballast Nedam Parking on this project at Colchester Hospital,” says James Fildes, bid and proposals Manager at Berry Systems. “We used our specialist knowledge in cladding to install over 1,500 timber fins to transform the exterior aesthetics of the car park. One major benefit of using the selected composite panel product was that its flexibility in design meant we could fix the timber fins onto the outside cladding to maintain a consistent appearance for the entire perimeter of the car park, and successfully delivering the employers requirements. “Early contractor engagement is a key function to delivering projects on time and on budget. With the service offering from Berry Systems and commitment to the transport and infrastructure When the demand for additional staff car parking spaces at
sector, we aim to excel in meeting client expectations, with continual
Colchester Hospital created the need for an extra level to be added,
improvements and business development being a key focus to servicing
Berry Systems were employed to design, supply and install the
our clients. The Colchester Hospital project shows our ability to take
cladding with very specific safety and aesthetic requirements to
advantage of our extensive industry knowledge to provide suitable car
meet. An extra 152 spaces have been created by the project
parking solutions and install them to an exceptional standard.”
The main contractors, Ballast Nedam Parking, called upon Berry More at www.berrysystems.co.uk
for the timber cladding for the car park. Over 1,500 Brunnea-treated
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Image © Frank Shaw Associates Limited
Stora Enso helps to accelerate sustainable schools from concept to reality Industry experts from the architecture, construction and education
performance exist, as does a miseducation on cost-effectiveness. Dayo
industry gathered recently to discuss how wood can successfully be
ShittuBalogun, Associate at EURBAN, one important enabler of the
used as a building material to create sustainable learning environments.
webinar and official partner from Stora Enso, provided insight: “We’re
Hosted by Stora Enso in collaboration with The B1M, the webinar
coming across a lot of risk aversion as people still consider wood
showcased the award-winning case study of the Northstowe Learning
construction as a new way of doing things. There is some miseducation
Community in Cambridgeshire, UK, a 15,000m2 project that utilised
on cost. People consider it to be a bit more expensive, but through
cross laminated timber (CLT) to meet sustainability targets and provide
some benchmarking work we established that if you’re talking in
an inspiring and healthy space for students.
simplistic terms, the structural skeleton of a building is either equal or
The UK government’s hardening of the carbon emissions reduction target, from 68% to 78% by 2035 puts an increasingly acute focus
cheaper – and more work needs to be done to communicate that this is the case.”
on how industries can support this ambition. Rory Doak, business
When looking at the path forward for sustainable school
development manager UK & Ireland at Stora Enso said: “The biggest
construction in light of the Northstowe project, ShittuBalogun, added,
impact (of the Northstowe project) is that there’s nearly 3,000
“We all have a commitment to not pour more CO2 into the atmosphere
tons of CO2 stored in the building that’s not getting put back into
than we take out of it, so there is a moral obligation for all of us
the atmosphere.” Pair this with the reduction of up to 75% of CO2
across the industry – and where better to see this play out than in an
emissions that can be achieved using wooden construction methods
educational setting? This is exactly what we like to do, deliver buildings
versus concrete and steel processes, and it’s clear to see how building
efficiently and sustainably.”
with wood can contribute to this journey.
Fred Mills, co-founder of The B1M, and webinar moderator,
Also touching on the biophilic design nature of wood, the panellists
added, “Construction methods have the power to truly effect people’s
shared insights on its positive impact on the health and well-being
lives. It perhaps doesn’t get more important than thinking about this
of children as studies have shown that the material can improve
in the context of where future generations are learning. Wooden
concentration and reduce stress. With return to classrooms post-
school projects create amazing spaces for schooling, both from an
pandemic in motion, this will be an incredibly important factor for
environmental, health and well-being point of view. The task now, is to
educational authorities and construction players to consider.
raise awareness of how concepts can be moved to an implementable
Despite the benefits of wood as a strong, versatile, and sustainable
reality and Northstowe is a fantastic example of this.”
material, the webinar also assessed the barriers to adopting CLT as More at www.storaenso.com
a construction material. For example, concerns around technical
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
DC Timber Systems in the frame in East Kilbride Timber frame kits specialist DC Timber Systems has secured its first project with homebuilder CALA Homes (West) providing timber frame for its upcoming development Sequoia Meadows at Jackton, East Kilbride. The timber kit firm, which was launched in 2020 and is based in Dundonald in Ayrshire, is set to manufacture, and supply timber frame for 24 apartments located on the development. Although this is the first project between CALA Homes (West) and DC Timber Systems, The JR Group – of which DC Timber is a part of – has worked with the homebuilder for many years and will support DC Timber on the project by erecting the timber frame on-site, with JR Specialist Services carrying out full joinery services and JR Scaffold supporting with the scaffolding infrastructure. Ian Samson, managing director for DC Timber Systems, said: “We are delighted to work with CALA Homes (West) on its newest development at Jackton, East Kilbride. As this is our first project
great benefit to our partners. By accessing all our services, timing and
with the homebuilder, we really want to showcase the quality of our
delivery is seamless, there is one point of contact and the same team is
product, our smooth process and our level of service. We hope this will
on the ground to see the job through to completion.”
be the first of many projects between DC Timber Systems and CALA Homes (West).”
Robert Lafferty, site manager for CALA Homes (West) at Sequoia Meadows, added: “We have a comprehensive procurement process
John Horne, managing director of The JR Group added: “We have
to ensure our building partners and suppliers meet our high levels of
worked with CALA Homes (West) for many years, so we are thrilled
quality and finish. We were impressed with DC Timber Systems and by
to see the timber frame arm of our business have the opportunity to
The JR Group’s comprehensive offering here and we look forward to
work with them on the Jackton project. CALA is amongst the first to
progressing with the project.”
benefit from our ability to offer a one-stop-shop. Our group setup and More at www.cala.co.uk
specialisms are designed to accommodate projects exactly like this with
Clancy acquires structural timber frame specialist DBM Consultants Clancy Consulting has expanded its structural engineering service by acquiring Scottish based DBM Consultants. Formed in 1984, DBM initially provided structural engineering design and inspection services to Lanarkshire and Central Scotland before expanding into timber frame design upon the appointment of Gordon Megahy into family business five years later. By providing a full engineering service to timber frame manufacturers, the business has been focused on developments across Scotland and England of a construction value of up to £20 million, predominantly working on newbuild and extensions
of construction and energy efficiency within our schemes. It sits seamlessly
in the residential, student living and healthcare sectors.
with our aspirations for the built environment and the contribution we can
A respected specialist in this area of work and member of the
make as part of the climate emergency our world faces.”
Structural Timber Association (STA), Gordon Megahy has grown the
Gordon Megahy, Managing Director at DBM Consultants added:
business over the years with the driving ambition to produce the most
“This is an exciting next chapter for us. DBM was founded by my father
environmentally responsible buildings. In addition to traditional timber
and the values, culture and key focus on client partnerships is very much
frames, he and the team are also skilled in structural insulated panel
aligned to the Clancy ethos. It’s a great opportunity to further expand
construction methods and glulam structures.
timber frame solutions in the marketplace and I’m excited to develop the
Neil Orrock, director at Clancy Consulting said: “Bringing onboard
team’s potential within the framework of a national multi-disciplinary
specialist expertise from Gordon and his team is the perfect fit to enhance
engineering practice, whilst still maintaining our local roots in Scotland.”
the skills and resource within Clancy. Offering our clients offsite fabrication
The DBM team will leave their Motherwell office and relocate to the
allows for speed of construction and accuracy during delivery stages
Clancy Glasgow office, with Gordon joining as divisional director.
however, most importantly, this highly sustainable and thermally efficient More at www.clancy.co.uk
solution is a significant step in expanding our drive towards modern methods
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FEATURE FABRIC FIRST
The Key to Net Zero John Smith, technical director at Stewart Milne Timber Systems (SMTS), highlights why a ‘fit and forget’ and ‘fabric first’ approach is the best solution for the housebuilding industry to become carbon neutral by 2050.
S
ince 1975, SMTS has promoted the use of a fabric first,
and continuously throughout their lifetime. At SMTS
fit and forget approach to construction. It is not a new
we have developed build systems that can provide
concept, but it is absolutely one which, now more than
U-values as low as 0.13W/m2K. So, when it comes to meeting the
ever, is crucial in fulfilling the large housing gap and
2050 net zero target, as well as being commercially viable – there really
achieving net zero by 2050. Sustainability and eco-friendly practices
is no comparison to timber frame solutions.
have moved from being ‘nice-to-have’ to being an essential part
Structural timber has the lowest overall carbon dioxide footprint
of every business across all sectors and, as one of the UK’s largest
of any building material and, on average, replacing just one cubic
industries, construction has a key part to play in creating a system
metre of concrete with timber in construction can save a tonne of CO2
where circularity and sustainability take precedence in the supply
emissions.
chain.
Our Sigma® II Build System, developed over 10 years ago as part of
Additionally, Covid-19 has impacted significantly on household
the Sigma® home at BRE in Watford, the UK’s first zero carbon home,
finances and further highlights the UK’s need for new affordable
was an integral part of A2Dominion’s Bicester Eco Village development
housing stock to be built quickly and at volume, all while meeting
– the UK’s first eco town – and is the perfect example of the fit and
green targets and delivering significant cost savings. Although the
forget approach and all it can do for communities, residents and the
pandemic has posed major challenges for the industry, it has also
planet. With an aim to deliver the most sustainable living in the UK for its
offered opportunities to pause, take stock, and consider the adoption of fresh initiatives that drive better efficiency. And when it comes to
residents, by using this system, 94 homes in the eco-village benefited
efficient building systems, it is hard to beat ‘fit and forget’ timber frame
from greater thermal properties and lower energy consumption,
solutions.
resulting in highly fuel and energy efficient dwellings. Our Sigma®
By adopting timber frame solutions, the speed of on-site
II product takes ‘whole life costing’ into account, as well as risk and
construction increases rapidly, with the possibility for homes to be
homeowner impact. When building with timber frame, a home can
installed and made watertight in a matter of days, saving costs for
be designed as one integrated system with a fabric first approach as
housebuilders. A fabric first approach is vital in maintaining the lifelong
energy efficiency is locked into the home’s core; without a reliance on
performance of the building. Energy-saving can be seen from the
micro-renewable bolt-ons which require regular maintenance and are
moment materials are sourced, until they are installed in the final build,
likely to need replacing during the life of the building.
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FEATURE FABRIC FIRST
Ultimately, a fabric first approach will save the homeowners money and give them peace of mind that their home will deliver the designed energy performance. As we know, timber has superior energy efficiency and low embodied carbon, meaning homes are naturally warm in winter and yet still cool in summer, allowing residents to enjoy the benefits of better energy efficiency, air quality and exacting fabric quality which is built to last. As well as the benefits of a fabric first approach to energy efficient homes, utilising an offsite manufactured timber frame build solution also provides homeowners with confidence in the quality of the building fabric, and that the energy performance of the home will be in-line with the design intent. By considering the whole life costing and the environmental impact of home building, alongside our development partners involved in Bicester Eco Village, we were able to design one of the most exciting, high quality and sustainable villages in the UK. As an industry, we know that changes must be made to play our part in creating a better world and to counter the impact of global warming in a more meaningful way, and the most effective way to do this is from the outset, with a fabric first mentality that addresses the whole-life issues head on. Timber frame solutions developed through offsite construction are one of the few processes within the industry right now that couples true energy efficiency throughout its value chain with financial benefits for suppliers and consumers which will aid in making a true and significant contribution towards the construction industry achieving the 2050 net zero goal. We have a lot to contend with as we navigate the post-Covid recovery, fight climate change and consider political and economic changes which will inevitably impact our industry. However, making changes now, from the ground up, will future-proof construction businesses, provide a commercial advantage and develop a better world for communities throughout the UK. More at www.stewartmilnetimbersystems.com
Bicester Eco Town A2Dominion’s development in North West Bicester is a 393-
Timber systems were therefore an ideal fit for the priorities of
home project, aiming to deliver the most sustainable living in
the ambitious task at hand. The project at Bicester was the UK’s first eco town, designed
the UK for its residents. With the homes designed to achieve true zero carbon rating, delivering energy efficient, good
SMTS worked with A2Dominion and Willmott Dixon, the main
quality affordable housing is crucial
contractor, to provide its Sigma® II Build System for 94 of the
to the success of the project.
to achieve high standards of environmental sustainability.
Timber Construction Magazine
Summer 2021
first 393 homes as part of the ‘Exemplar’ phase of the project.
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FEATURE FABRIC FIRST
Reducing Energy Consumption The UK’s net zero targets can only be achieved if its housing stock is improved and made more energy efficient. One Yorkshire developer is doing just that with the help of specialist insulation.
F
our years ago, Leeds-based sustainable developer Citu
Supafil Frame can be run by a single operator, fits easily into the
set out to create homes 10 times more energy efficient
existing production line, and can even be moved quickly and swiftly to
than typical UK houses. To do this, the company invested
other areas in the manufacturing facility depending on Citu’s volume
in a state-of-the-art production facility where all the
capacity requirements. Knauf Insulation’s technical support team
components for its properties are built offsite.
provided full training and support during each phase of installation.
Thermal performance is critical to energy efficiency. Citu wanted to go far beyond the regulations to achieve wall build-ups with an extremely
Insulating the panels
low U-value of just 0.10W/m2K. This is at least three times better than
Citu homes are manufactured from timber panels with a 300mm cavity.
the U-value achieved in most new build homes and fifteen times better
The blowing plate is positioned over the panel completely covering the cavity.
than older houses. Citu turned to Knauf Insulation for advice and support
Supafil is then blown into the wooden frame to the specific parameters of
in developing the offsite capability required for this level of thermal
each panel. All cavities are filled to the correct thickness: something that
performance. Knauf Insulation’s technical support team undertook extensive
has been carefully calculated and tested by the Knauf Insulation to ensure
calculations and recommended the Blowing Plate Insulation System to install
settlement does not occur. And because the machine is programmed to
Supafil Frame – a high performance, non-combustible blowing wool.
install the exact quantity of insulation required, there’s no waste.
Supafil Blowing Wool lends itself to offsite production because
Supafil is a high-performance Blowing Wool. It is non-combustible
it completely fills the cavity, without any voids even around complex
with Euroclass A1 Reaction to Fire Classification rating as well as
penetrations – something that can occur when insulation slabs or rolls are
providing excellent thermal and acoustic performance. It contains
cut to size. It is also a dry process, so operatives are not exposed to any
a silicone-based additive to ensure it is water repellent. As well as
harmful chemicals and it doesn’t require a dedicated production line. Instead,
providing excellent thermal performance, Supafil has great sustainability
the system comprises a blowing machine and a filling plate. The system is
credentials. Knauf Insulation’s glass mineral wool contains up to 80% of
modular allowing for phased investment. Citu opted to install the blowing
recycled content. This reduces the amount of virgin materials used and
machine in phase one, which allowed them to manually fill the panels. Phase
prevents around 60,000 tonnes of glass a year (350 million bottles) from
two saw the addition of the blowing plate, semi-automating the process.
going to landfill or polluting the environment. Knauf Insulation has also invested in advanced compression packaging. This means
Low Carbon Homes
there’s less packaging used, so fewer lorries on the roads leading to a reduction in transport
The Citu Home uses a timber framed
carbon emissions. All of which helps to support
design, so each house stores 23
Citu’s goal that every home should be carbon
tonnes of carbon and prevents and
zero to manufacture. By combining modern
prevents the emissions of 88 tonnes of
methods of construction with the very highest
carbon dioxide, compared to building
levels of thermal performance, Citu and Knauf
an equivalent masonry house. That’s
Insulation are creating homes that reduce
roughly the same as taking 19 cars of the road for one year. Older houses have U-values of
energy consumption and carbon emissions –
around 1.5 W/(m2K). Typical newbuilds are around 0.3-0.6 W/(m2K). The walls in Citu houses
homes that are fit for the future.
achieve U-values of 0.1 W/(m2K). When combined with the Citu homes’ other features it means energy requirements are between 7 and 10 times lower than the UK average house.
More at www.citu.co.uk www.knaufinsulation.co.uk
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COVER STORY PIVETEAUBOIS
A View to a Thrill Wier Quay is a beautiful house built on the banks of the River Tamar, near Tavistock in South West England and features a range of timber products from leading French supplier PIVETEAUBOIS. Image © P.M. Phillips
T
he new timber-based home was designed for clients
A range of timber systems and products were considered from
Mike and Susan Philips, both of whom knew the area
traditional oak framing to Canadian Tamarack Larch, as well as a wide
well, being keen boating enthusiasts. The plot originally
range of techniques from traditional mortice and tenon through to
contained a concrete bungalow that had served the
CNC-machining and modern stainless steel connectors. The materials
couple well as a weekend getaway, providing them with the perfect
that were eventually chosen were Pine cross laminated timber (CLT)
spot to sail and steam on the river. Having now retired, they desired
floor, walls and roof contained within a visible Douglas Fir glulam frame
a more comfortable and attractive house where they could stay for
– all supplied by PIVETEAUBOIS. The CLT panels and glulam frame were
longer and enjoy the countryside and all the river offered.
CNC-manufactured in a precision factory environment at the company’s
To create the successful home a collaborative design phase went
main production site in Sainte-Florence, France, with a small amount of
into great detail with the client to choose the appropriate materials
on-site carpentry required to finish the joints, fit metal connectors, and
to realise the concept. Wooden House, a specialist timber framing
profile some of the timbers before being raised into position.
company from the South West of England, John Pardey an awardwinning architectural practice and PIVETEAUBOIS, worked together closely, with the aim of all involved to create a wonderful home but also a
“A unique aspect of the house was the use of visible Pine CLT for the walls. This is something that is rarely seen in the UK and gives the house a very distinctive feel.”
healthier environment for their client. “We see our work as humanistic – “This was a super project to be involved with,” says Elisabeth
modern, but tempered by a love of place, traditions and materials – we aim for timelessness in our buildings,” says John Pardey. “On all projects
Piveteau-Boley, export sales manager UK & Ireland. “The team worked
– regardless of scale or budget – we firstly understand the vision and
together so well to achieve the design brief and the vision of the
objectives of the client and then work very hard to explore options
client. A unique aspect of the house was the use of visible Pine CLT
to find a solution that exceeds expectations yet remains practical,
for the walls. This is something that is rarely seen in the UK and gives
achievable and lasting. We always endeavour to use natural materials
the house a very distinctive feel. It is a great showcase for this timber
to make buildings that work and wear well and provide a richness and
species. Alongside our sapwood free Douglas fir glulam and Pine CLT,
resonance that endures.”
we also supplied grey pressure-treated Douglas Fir cladding, so it
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COVER STORY PIVETEAUBOIS
Image © P.M. Phillips
Image © P.M. Phillips
really benefited the client that the architect and timber installer could
“A combination of location, brilliant design and choice of materials
source all the timber components required for the project from a single
made this job a joy to work on,” says Will Bateman, design director at
supplier. It makes everything so much easier and efficient when you are
Wooden House. “Despite the initial set-back regarding access we were
dealing with one single company.”
easily able manage the problem and quickly turned it to our advantage,
The whole house was positioned a short distance from the banks
something we pride ourselves on. Our partners and team worked so hard
of the River Tamar on a large steel frame that lifted the property
to realise the Phillips’s dream and it’s wonderful to see it completed and
above possible flood waters. The main problem encountered was that
we know they are going to have many happy times at Weir Quay.”
the narrow lane that led down to the site from the main road meant
“Sustainable construction is very important to us,” adds Elisabeth.
that the articulated lorries delivering the frame to site would not be
“Not only do projects like this show how flexible timber can be as a
able to access it easily. The solution saw the use of a local unoccupied
building material and meet the huge requirements of low-carbon,
factory where the frame was unloaded and stored and where any
energy efficient construction, but it is perfect in creating a natural,
final necessary carpentry could be completed. The CLT floor was
organic setting that provides that sense of wellbeing and calmness that
installed first, before the walls and frames were erected in three
we have all be searching for in recent months.”
sections. The roof was then lifted by crane and dropped into position. Despite minor setbacks the entire frame was erected and complete in
For more information visit www.piveteaubois.com/en
just nine days.
www.woodenhouse.ltd www.johnpardeyarchitects.com
French CLT, glulam and cladding PIVETEAUBOIS is a leading French sawmiller and manufacturer of timber products for the construction, landscaping and energy sectors. Our passion for wood has always driven the family mission – to build a durable and sustainable world by making the most of every tree. Construction accounts for 60% of PIVETEAUBOIS’s sawn production with an annual production of glulam, glued solid timber and finger-jointed timber of 50,000m3 plus cladding production of 700,000m2. Sapwood-free Douglas Fir glulam is in strong demand as it offers the same UC3.2 natural durability, mechanical resistance and
Image © P.M. Phillips
visual aesthetics as Larch at a lower cost. Grey treated Douglas Fir is increasingly popular while Durapin UC4 treated Pine glulam (brown or green) is used in high risk exterior environments with lamella being
pressure-treated Pine with lamella pre-pressure treated to UC4.
pre-treated to UC4 before bonding. All our glulam can be machined
All panels can be coated with our translucent UC2 water repellent
and cut to size to customer specifications.
PARKA to protect the panels from water ingress and staining during
PIVETEAUBOIS added CLT to its engineered product range at the
transit and erection and from decay. PIVETEAUBOIS uses material from local French PEFC-certified
end of 2018 with an annual production capacity of 50,000m3. The
HEXAPLI CLT range consists of panels ranging from 60mm to 360mm
forests and the fully automated 10,000m² production facility at its
thick made from sawn timber classified at C18 or C24 and 20, 30 and
Sainte-Florence headquarters is the first industrial site producing
40mm thick. The individual panels, for floors, roofs and walls, are
CLT panels in French wood of any significant scale. It has just signed
machined and delivered to order based on a customer’s 3D model and
a partnership agreement with Bouygues Bâtiment France Europe
come in widths up to 3.5m and lengths up to 16m. These are available
(France, UK and Switzerland), the first major construction company
in visible or non-visible quality, in Pine, Spruce or Douglas Fir with a
to commit to building 30% of its construction projects with French
strong focus on Pine and Douglas Fir, which offer increased mechanical
timber by 2030. PIVETEAUBOIS is now Bouygues’ preferred supplier
resistance and durability. HEXAPLI CLT panels can be supplied in UC3.2
of CLT produced with French timber.
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CASE STUDY LOCKERBIE VISITOR BUILDING
Showcasing Structural Timber James Jones & Sons have completed a new visitor building at its flagship Lockerbie site – the largest single site sawmill complex in the UK and the most technically advanced – and used several of its own timber products.
T
he brief for the building
and the conference space above. A simple,
was part functional and part
unheated, glass link building connects the
aspirational. At a functional
new building to the old office. The first floor
level, there was a requirement
is raised to give panoramic views across the
to provide office accommodation for up to
timber yard and over the constant stream of
10 staff, a meeting room capable of holding
unprocessed logs to the mill, which is directly
up to 30 people theatre style, with the
below this space.
flexibility to hold classroom sessions and
The walls are formed with an innovative
industry meetings and a smaller meeting
double-leafed, offset structure, using James
room, kitchen facilities and a reception area
Jones & Sons proprietary timber JJI joists, to
for visitors.
minimise cold bridges. These extra thick walls,
The building obviously needed a high
at 430mm deep, allowed sufficient depth
timber content, using as much James Jones’s
to use environmentally friendly insulation
product as possible. It had to provide a view
with excellent thermal performance. It also
across the Lockerbie site allowing visitors the
facilitated a deeper articulation of window
renewable source of heating and summer
opportunity to see the sawmill in operation
reveals in an area of Scotland known for its high
cooling to the building. The various vents
with a low carbon footprint, low energy
rainfall.
and ducts for this system, the bathrooms
heating and ventilation system and high levels
Douglas fir has been extensively used in
and kitchen are carefully expressed in the
of insulation. The design ethos was to be stylish
the interior for its stability and characteristic
timber cladding on the south elevation.
and striking, but at the same time thoughtful
pink hue. The pitched roofs feature closely
Electric car charging further demonstrates the
and not grandiose. James Jones & Sons held a
centred and very narrow Douglas fir rafters,
company’s commitment to its inherently green
design competition between two architectural
160mm deep by 25mm wide that bring rhythm
credentials.
firms and the winning team was Konishi
and warmth to the spaces. This pattern is
Gaffney from Edinburgh, led by Kieran Gaffney.
echoed in the overclad reception wall and the
building,” said Rob MacKenna, General
balustrade to the staircase, top lit by the full
Manager of the Lockerbie site. “The striking
length rooflight above.
design and innovative use of solid and
The completed building’s structure acts as a demonstration project, almost entirely erected from James Jones & Sons own
Externally Scottish larch was specified
“We are really pleased with the new
engineered timber products are a great
products with an approach to minimising
with black stained, narrow, vertical cladding on
example of how timber can be used to deliver
the use of steel and maximising timber.
the lower storey of the building. Above this,
high quality office and meeting areas. The
Loadbearing glulam beams were used
the horizontal larch cladding is finished with a
main meeting room has been positioned to
throughout the building, while an unprocessed
water-based silicate treatment that preserves
achieve a stunning view across the Stevens
tree trunk provides loadbearing support to the
the timber while accelerating and evening out
Croft site, enabling visitors to view part of our
backbone of the building – a nod to the timber
the weathering.
operations from the comfort of this space. We
Taking all the timber elements into
processing cycle.
look forward to a time when we can welcome
account, the building fabric has almost 40
back groups of visitors and host them in this
pitched volumes: a single storey office wing to
CO2TE within it. The building’s environmental
fantastic new facility.”
the north and a two-storey volume to the south
agenda goes beyond the extensive use of
which houses the reception, meeting rooms
timber: an air source heat pump provides a
The building takes the form of two offset
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Use Class 2, 3 or 4? INTERIOR and EXTERIOR environments are very different so treated wood performance levels should reflect this.
Preservative treatment provides added durability. However, it’s a mistake to assume that all treated wood is the same. BS 8417 groups applications for treated wood into Use Classes: INTERIOR
EXTERIOR
Use Class 2
Use Class 3(u)
Use Class 4
Above the ground or DPC covered
Above the ground (uncoated)
Ground or fresh water contact
Battens, framing, joists, roofs
Deck boards, cladding (inc. battens), fence rails
Fencing, playground equipment, deck posts, joists and beams
(and exterior structural support)
To get the best from your timber, make sure it’s preservative pressure treated to the correct Use Class. contact@thewpa.org.uk 01977 558274
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FEATURE MODIFIED WOOD
Measuring Value Today’s modified woods are able to meet many of the constituents of value now being demanded by specifiers and are easily available to provide a range of construction solutions.
W
ith the launch of the Construction Innovation
used unseen as a reliable liner for architectural landscaping planters,
Hub’s Value Toolkit at the end of April, researched
sited in a development close to the entrance of London’s Hammersmith
and compiled with the help of government and
Broadway station. It was chosen as a sustainable, long-life alternative to
construction industry experts, the definition of ‘value’
plastics and metal. The MTX product can also achieve a lifetime of up to
in construction is certainly being broadened.
50 years outdoors in all weathers when not in contact with soil.
Modified woods and wood products, with their extended lifespans, and low impact end-of-life environmental profiles, deliver a non-plastic,
Homegrown timber
renewable and sustainable alternative for all manner of projects.
Many specifiers are beginning to express a desire for the timber used
Kebony® and Accoya® with their specialised modification of wood,
in their projects to be homegrown, thus contributing to social value here
plus heat-treated alternatives such as IRO Timber and ThermoWood®,
in the UK. A success story manufactured in Britain from home-grown
each support the calculation of value in their own way. Manufactured
Larch, is heat-enhanced IRO Timber exterior and interior cladding and
from sustainably grown forests, with their inherent economic, social and
decking from BSW Timber. IRO, with its 10 colours, features an enhanced-
environmental value, modified woods also offer durability benefits in
grain surface appearance, blending naturally with interiors and exterior
terms of wear and tear, and at the end of their extended lives in use are
projects. Its seven-step manufacturing process, based on the ancient
able to become part of the circular economy.
Japanese Yakisugi technique, includes two stages of kiln-drying, charring, brushing, high pressure and high-heat treatments, all of which add to
Moving on from joinery
its aesthetic and longevity. IRO Timber is UV stable and HVOC-free. IRO
Accoya® acetylated wood, first launched in 2007, is now wellestablished in the joinery production sector. Yet it is Accoya’s
cladding can be side-fixed, rather than face-fixed, giving a smooth finish. The water repellent surface also offers easy cleaning.
performance in water, with its minimal swelling, shrinkage and warping, that has interested the Environment Agency. International Timber
Low lifecycle costs
teamed up with Accoya’s parent company Accsys and sustainability
Delivering value in construction is also about looking at maintenance
consultants 540 World to create an Accoya fender for a trial on the banks
aspects of products in use. Produced from sustainably grown and
of the River Thames in London. Fenders, part of the flood management
certified Pine, Kebony wood utilises a by-product of the sugar cane
assets in the Thames Estuary, also provide biodiversity niches in tidal
industry, furfuryl alcohol, to impregnate the softwood cell walls, locking
waters: Accoya is non-toxic. Accoya was also chosen because of its Gold
in natural polymers to form a stable, durable structure. The wood is
level Cradle to Cradle™ certification: the certification identifies products
then heated and cured, permanently thickening the cell walls by around
that consider the effects on the environment of their manufacture, and
50%, producing material with a 30-year warranty if used above ground.
which also take account of social value.
From a wear and tear perspective, the ‘Kebonization’ process particularly increases the hardness of the timber to levels associated with durable
Hidden assets
hardwoods. Its low maintenance needs, high durability and recyclability
Another modified product which demonstrates the lifespan of
combine to produce low whole-life costs. Available in Britain exclusively
modified woods is MEDITE® TRICOYA® EXTREME, often abbreviated to
through Brooks Brothers Timber, Kebony also has a low carbon footprint
‘MTX’, an exterior form of MDF. For example, colourful planters created
compared to tropical hardwoods.
from MTX and donated to Marlborough Sports Garden near London Bridge will see an entire generation of children grow up before they need
Modified woods are a natural addition to the specifier’s portfolio and can contribute to achieving a broad-based notion of value in construction.
to be replaced. MTX is acetylated MDF, formulated for use outdoors. It More at www.thewpa.org.uk/wood-modification
offers up to a 25-year lifespan in contact with soil. MTX has also been
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Great British Wood Support British woodlands by using British wood. We produce cladding, beams, flooring and sawn hardwood, all from locally grown timber. 01793 853 281 | vastern.co.uk |
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FEATURE THE BIG INTERVIEW
Changing the Timber Mindset Vastern Timber is the largest hardwood saw-milling company in the UK, with the vast majority of its wood bought and sold within one hundred miles of its sawmills. We spoke to managing director, Tom Barnes about homegrown wood, thermal modification and supply and demand.
Q:
How has the last 12 months been for the business?
and sycamore. In many cases the homegrown versions are cheaper
It’s been a rollercoaster but with more ups than
than imported timber. We do not have enough wood to satisfy the
downs. Apart from the initial lockdown in March 2020,
huge demand in this country but recent supply shortages and huge
demand for our timber has been strong and the last nine
price increases of Canadian cedar and Siberian larch demonstrate that
months have been our busiest ever. As well as general high demand,
our reliance on importing leaves our plans to build with more wood in
shortages of imported timber and an increasing focus on supply chains
jeopardy. I believe that we must aim to be more self-sufficient which
have pushed specifiers and customers towards homegrown timber and
means planting more and using more.
we have definitely benefited from that. Q: The timber market appears to be very busy right now and prices are rising. What is driving this and is it affecting the homegrown market? The construction sector drives the timber market, and I am surprised by how busy that has been. I think most of us were expecting a recession on the back of the Covid pandemic but it seems the opposite has occurred. High demand in this country has been replicated in the USA, Australia and across Asia, which has created a very competitive environment. At the same time, supply has been constricted by lockdowns and for various reasons large supply countries have reduced felling. The consequence is that prices for some timber products have doubled and availability has halved over the last year. The knock-on effect is that UK softwood log prices have increased by 40% and competition for them is fierce. The hardwood log market is less affected because there are fewer companies able to process them but prices are rising. It’s a good time to own woodland! Q: What are the reasons for using homegrown timber cladding as opposed to imported species – e.g. Canadian western red cedar? We grow plenty of species in this country that are suited to exterior timber cladding. Homegrown western red cedar, larch, oak and sweet chestnut are all suitable due to their natural durability and with the help of thermal modification we can now also use native ash, poplar
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FEATURE THE BIG INTERVIEW
Q: What are the benefits of modified timber above ‘natural’ or
Q: The Brimstone range is the only UK grown thermally
un-modified material?
modified timber – what made you develop this product
There are benefits both in terms of functionality and long-term
originally?
availability. Functionally modified woods are altered to enhance
Brimstone grew out of a collaboration between partners including
a combination of characteristics including durability, stability and
Grown in Britain, BRE and industry who joined forces to consider
consistency. Modern modification processes tend to produce material
solutions to the poor state of our native broadleaf woodlands. Out of this
that is as good as, or better than, the most durable and the most stable
came the idea that by thermally modifying fast growing white hardwoods
natural timbers, without the problems associated with extractives such
we could increase demand for the timber, thereby increasing its value
as tannin or cedar oils. Considering the long term benefits, modification
and as a result boost rates of woodland management. As we at Vastern
allows us to create high performing timber products without relying on
Timber already had all of the capabilities to process the raw timber,
species that take many hundreds of years to grow such as old growth
it seemed like a logical step to explore the potential for producing
western red cedar, oak or iroko. Because these products are created
thermally modified wood from homegrown hardwoods.
from pines and quick growing hardwoods that take between 25 and 50 years to grow, we can increase the amount of useful long term timber
Q: As is widely reported, a healthy UK homegrown timber
available in the future, the amount of carbon locked up in the built
supply needs more trees to be successful – not just for a healthy
environment and the percentage from local sources.
construction industry but for hitting zero carbon targets – can the UK forests supply enough raw material to sawmills to
Q: What applications are suitable for modified timber – can it
satisfy the market?
be used structurally?
The simple answer is no. But the data suggests that global forests
Durability and stability are the two key benefits of modification
cannot supply our future needs either. We face the perfect storm of
and as such the most common uses for the material are exterior
declining domestic supplies caused by a lack of planting and increasing
cladding and semi-structural uses such as decking and external joinery.
global competition for timber as countries urbanise and attempt
Modification does not tend to improve the structural qualities of timber
to reduce embodied carbon in buildings. Add to this mix the loss of
and in some cases, such as with thermal modification, the bending
forest due to deforestation, disease and climate change and it is hard
strength of the wood is reduced. Unless the structure is external and
to see how we will be able to source enough timber to achieve our
requires durability, there is no need for modified wood.
ambitions. In April I spoke to the Parliamentary Group on Forestry and Tree Planting, urging them to develop a National Timber Strategy to reconcile our increasing demand for timber and timber-based products with reducing national and international supply. Ultimately, we cannot control international supply but we can take bold steps to boost domestic forestry for the future. More at www.vastern.co.uk
The installation of Brimstone timber at the Sylva Wood Centre helped transform an old grain store into an exciting new workspace showcasing the best of British timber.
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FEATURE WOOD PROTECTION
Optimum Performance: why treated wood works As trade associations unite in a campaign to grow demand for preservative treated wood, Gordon Ewbank, CEO at the Wood Protection Association, highlights why using the right product in the right place is so important.
T
he Timber Trade Federation (TTF) is making third-party
clearly identified by customers and making sure an accurate product
quality assurance mandatory for members producing
description is carried all the way through the supply chain – from the
treated wood products by July next year. In the
treatment plant through to merchants, to builders to architects, and
meantime, in partnership with the Wood Protection
others. Using the right product in the right place is a responsibility
Association (WPA), an educational campaign to raise supply chain
which runs right throughout the supply chain and something that we
knowledge about how to specify and use treated wood correctly
must get right. It is only by working together that we can achieve this.”
has just been launched and the campaign’s first advertisements are The Code for Construction Product Information
appearing now in key trade magazines. The Confederation of Forest Industries (Confor) and the Timber
This campaign also connects into the development of the Code
Decking & Cladding Association (TDCA) have joined forces with the TTF
for Construction Product Information (CCPI). The CCPI arises from the
and WPA to drive the campaign’s educational messages into the supply
issues across construction first crystallized the Hackitt Review, which
chain to help improve buyer understanding and change perceptions
was followed by two further reports from the Competency Steering
about the performance of preservative wood protection.
Group for Building a Safer Future, including ‘Setting the Bar’. The Construction Products Association (CPA) is launching an industry-
The TTF Action Plan
wide consultation into the new CCPI, to gather the views before it is
The TTF treated wood action plan has been developed in close
formally launched later this year. The Hackitt report confirmed radical
collaboration with WPA and is designed to build confidence in the
change was needed for construction products, particularly in the areas
choice of preservative treated wood for ground contact applications, so
of testing and marketing, and the need for a sector-wide approach to
creating the conditions required to grow demand for added value wood
providing clear, accurate and unambiguous product information.
products. The key elements of the 3-point plan are:
While the Grenfell tragedy may not have involved timber products, it has impacted the commercial landscape for all building materials and
•
•
Preservative treated wood must be accurately and unambiguously
claims for performance right through the supply chain. This links very
specified/purchased, for use or resale, and is clearly identified at all
directly into the first element of the TTF Action Plan for treated wood,
points of the chain as fit for the intended purpose
namely ‘treated wood must be accurately and unambiguously specified
Customers purchasing treated products from TTF members must be
and be clearly identified at all points of the chain’. This message is proving
provided with adequate information and, where appropriate, training
very timely and gives an added focus and impetus to this initiative.
to be able to use and install those products safely and effectively •
Preservative treated wood must be produced by or purchased,
Share in the WPA’s passion for treated wood WPA is delighted that major timber trade associations are collaborating
directly or indirectly, from a treatment provider whose operation has been assessed and approved under an independent and
closely to help the UK market for treated wood grow. We are happy
reputable accreditation scheme (by July 2022).
to talk with any other organisation who shares our passion for wood protection technology and the industry’s mission to realise the
“Using the right product in the right place – and actively making sure the wrong product does not go into a project – is a responsibility
full potential of wood as a sustainable, low environmental impact construction and landscaping material.
which runs right throughout the supply chain,” says David Hopkins, More at www.thewpa.org.uk/make-sure-it-s-4
TTF CEO. “This means labelling the goods properly so they can be
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ADVERTORIAL LONZA WOOD PROTECTION
Meeting the evolving needs of timber product specification With timber increasingly being recognised as our ‘go to’ construction material of the future, it’s crucial that it is specified correctly. Ensuring that the timber has been sourced from sustainably managed forests is paramount, as is checking that it is treated correctly to the specified Use Class.
I
ndependent bodies, including the Committee on Climate Change, have reported that favouring timber over high
carbon materials such as concrete and steel is one of the most effective ways to reduce carbon emissions. This is where timber treatment really comes to the forefront; providing long term protection against fungal decay and insect attack to one of the most sustainable building materials. A new water-based low pressure preservative treatment To help meet the evolving needs of construction timber product specification, Lonza Wood Protection has recently launched VACSOL Aqua 6118 which can be used to treat timbers in Use Class 1, 2 and 3 (coated). More commonly known as VACSOL 6118, this new water-based low-pressure preservative treatment is both metal and VOC-free. VACSOL 6118 is a Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) authorised product. At Lonza we commit to obtaining full BPR authorisation for products that we are planning to launch to market. This process is a substantial investment and involves passing stringent risk assessments, as well as generating extensive data and studies to prove that the wood preservative is effective against wood destroying fungi and/or insects. The BPR requires data on the possible exposure and toxicity to humans such as reproduction toxicity, carcinogenicity, or endocrine disruption etc., as well as data on environmental impacts such as accumulation in
against fungal and insect attack around general building timbers and
soil or ecological toxicity.
joinery components. For Use Classes 1 and 2 it can deliver the desired service life of 60 years.
A focus on environmental impact
As VACSOL 6118 leaves the timbers virtually unchanged in their
Investment in BPR authorisation allows Lonza Wood Protection to
appearance, Lonza Wood Protection offer a range of colour options
confidently assure the market that timbers treated with VACSOL 6118
to help treatment companies confirm to their end customers that the
are non-hazardous to human and animal health, and to the environment.
timbers have been preservative treated. These TREATMENT MARKERS
And, with an increased focus on the circular economy, timber treated
are a range of short-term (dye based) and medium-term (pigment
with VACSOL 6118 can be recycled or reused at end of life.
based) colour options that provide an initial colour strike purely to
In addition, to help timber treaters reduce their carbon footprint
indicate a preservative treatment has been added.
VACSOL 6118 has been designed as an easy-to-use concentrate that is diluted on-site to meet individual business requirements. Tried, Tested and Trusted Wood Protection
VACSOL Aqua 6118 is a BPR authorised product. Use wood preservatives safely.
With VAC-VAC booster technology for enhanced performance, More at www.trustvacsol.com
VACSOL 6118 provides an effective ‘envelope’ of long-term protection
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Always read the label and product information before use.
@Timber_Media
FEATURE PANEL PRODUCTS
Boards of Protection Whilst engineered wood-based panel products are an integral part of many timber frame systems, they also have many flexible functions inside the construction world including site security. Not all sites lend themselves to hoardings. In some cases, it is important to secure access to individual buildings by boarding up doors and windows. This is particularly necessary for renovation and conversion projects involving old buildings where the structures may be unsound and present a potential danger to trespassers. In addition, thieves will be lured by the prospect of valuable architectural salvage; fireplaces, panelling, doors and even staircase are vulnerable. Such items may require ‘boxing in’ to provide protection from both thieves and damage due to the building work itself. SterlingOSB Zero is a robust solution in all these situations. The first OSB product to be made in the UK with zero added formaldehyde, SterlingOSB Zero is a ‘greener’ board that meets all standards with ease. Its environmental credentials are enhanced further as it is manufactured in the UK from responsibly sourced timber, so its carbon footprint is low.
C
More at www.norbord.co.uk
onstruction sites and vacant buildings are tempting places for thieves, trespassers, vandals, arsonists and children. A perimeter barrier, such as a site hoarding, is seen as the first and most important line of defence in securing a site.
Panel Imports Rising
The windows, doors and other openings of individual, unoccupied properties may be boarded up. Widely recognised as the ideal panel material to fulfil
The recovery in import volume seen in the second half of 2020
these needs, OSB is easy to use, consistent and great value.
continued in January 2021 with timber and panel imports 12%
SterlingOSB Zero is a highly versatile board for structural use in
higher than in January 2020. The volume of solid timber and
load-bearing dry or humid conditions. Naturally strong and hard-wearing,
panel products imported in January 2021 totalled 895,000m3, a
it is tougher than most softwood plywood and has no knots, voids or
100,000m3 rise from January 2020’s total imports of 795,000m3.
delaminating problems.
When comparing January 2021 with January 2020 the statistics
Securing construction sites is challenging. The theft of tools, building
revealed that among the individual product categories:
materials and expensive plant such as diggers and generators is just one of the problems. Security is linked inextricably with health and safety,
•
Softwood import volumes rose by 22% (530,000m3).
there are also serious liability issues. Those owning or operating a site
•
Hardwood import volumes fell by 5.5% (38,000m3).
are responsible for managing access and ensuring the safety of non-
•
Softwood plywood import volumes rose by 24% (82,000m3).
employees, trespassers and particularly children.
•
Particleboard import volumes fell by 42% (41,000m3)
•
OSB import volumes rose 135% (58,000m3).
•
MDF import volumes fell by 22.5% (60,000m3)
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states: “While the numbers of children being killed or injured on construction sites has reduced, there is no room for complacency. Each year, two or three children die after gaining access to building sites, and many more are injured.”
The increase in import volumes comes amidst a resurgent
Security breaches have implications in terms of downtime, loss of
housing market, with housing starts up by 26% in England in
revenue, increased insurance premiums and equipment replacement costs;
Q4 2020 as compared to Q4 2019. David Hopkins, CEO of the
they also do little for the PR effort when problems on a site become public.
Timber Trade Federation, said: “Our latest statistics reflect the
According to the HSE, site boundaries must be defined physically, where
determination of our members to match supply to demand, with
necessary, by suitable fencing. The inherent strength of SterlingOSB Zero
a growth in overall wood product imports amidst a competitive
makes it the natural choice for hoardings. Requiring minimal finishing, the
international market which is keeping supply tight the world
product is available in a number of sheet sizes and thicknesses. The boards
over, and a surge in construction in the UK. This growth is being
are square-edged so butt together easily and cleanly; nails can be driven
supported by a buoyant housing market, a government eager to
as close as 8mm from the panel edge without causing splitting. Hoardings
invest, and consumers choosing to spend money saved during
created using SterlingOSB Zero may be finished with most popular surface
the pandemic on home improvements, with some £160 billion
treatments, allowing logos and marketing messages to be displayed,
saved during the last year.”
creating a smart site perimeter for the duration of work.
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FEATURE TIMBER & HOUSING
AIMCH Publish Progressive Results
AIMCH, the innovation consortium set up to transform the housebuilding sector, has published its second-year progress report showing encouraging results and key learnings points for a more efficient future.
A
Advanced Industrialised Methods for the Construction
new AIMCH Chair added: “Mainstreaming all categories of MMC is
of Homes (AIMCH) is a three-year research and
more important than ever. In a post-Covid world the sector needs to
development project aiming to help tackle the UK
transform productivity, improve quality as well as improving the welfare
housing crisis by building new homes faster, to higher
of its workforce. We also need to find more sustainable ways of
quality and more cost effectively than masonry methods using
building in order to achieve a net zero-carbon built environment.
panelised modern methods of construction (MMC) systems. The latest report to be published by highlights several key learnings
“The AIMCH project has already made great progress across a number of fronts which will better enable greater MMC adoption across all parts
for the industry across several important and innovative areas. One of
of industry including SME’s. The work done on design standardisation,
the highlights being able to achieve a weathertight, insulated and secure
panelised and sub-assembly system applications, productivity and carbon
superstructure in just one day. All advanced panelised MMC systems and
measurement and manufacturing process optimisation are all rich sources
lean construction solutions trialled so far have been successful and early
of knowledge for others to learn from and use.” A collaboration between Stewart Milne Group, Barratt
analysis is recognising the benefits of these advanced panelised MMC
Developments, L&Q, Forster Group, the Manufacturing Technology
systems with the hard data to back it up. Other important outputs of the project in the last year include the
Centre (MTC) and Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC),
completion of several studies and the publication of guides for industry: •
Design standardisation and the development of product families
•
Guide to creating a BIM housing manual
•
Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA)
•
Designing a future factory. “Despite the challenges of Covid-19,” said Stewart Dalgarno,
AIMCH Project Director and Stewart Milne Group Director of Product Development. “The project team has worked hard to build momentum and has delivered some important outputs which confirm panelised modern methods of construction (MMC) as a very real and viable alternative to masonry, over the final year, we hope to take this to a new level.” Mark Farmer, founding director & CEO Cast Real Estate &
Mark Farmer, founding director & CEO Cast Real Estate & Construction Consultancy, and Government champion on MMC and new AIMCH Chair
Construction Consultancy, and Government champion on MMC and
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FEATURE TIMBER & HOUSING
the project compares conventional and panelised MMC construction
and Whole Life Costing in the use of MMC systems across four housing
methods on actual building sites, and the impact scaling up panelised
types to current and near zero carbon standards. A strategy for a
MMC will have on the housebuilding industry.
proof of concept, near zero carbon home trial was also developed with
The three-year AIMCH project, which has been live since early 2019,
Barratt Developments.
has been trialling new digital design tools, manufacturing advancements,
The project also recognises the importance of SMEs and through
and improved near-to-market offsite panelised MMC systems, using lean
Forster Group, roofing specialist, has helped accelerate their roofing
site processes on live housing projects over the past two years.
technology, through collaborative learning and proof of concept trials
The project recognises the challenges of MMC manufacturing
with MTC and the AIMCH developers. Dissemination is important and
and through engagement with MTC, lead manufacturing partner,
provided by CSIC including presenting at several key industry events, a
has conducted advanced manufacturing and digital business systems
dedicated industry stakeholder group, project website and social media.
studies. These include down selection process for an integrated ERP
The goal of the project is to support the sector by delivering
system for MMC manufacturing and installation, along with detailed
120,000 homes for the same or less cost than traditional methods
proof of concept studies into specific manufacturing areas, where using
and built 30% quicker. The project has potential to impact on 35,000
robotics and advanced automation can improve MMC manufacturing
homes being delivered by AIMCH partners across the UK each year.
output, productivity, quality and lower costs, including the design of
In the project’s final year, a number of outputs and learnings for the
future factories using mathematical models, dynamic simulation and 3D
sector will be completed and shared on the AIMCH website as well as at
technology to improve investment decisions.
industry events, with final findings published in March 2022.
With decarbonisation of the built environment a priority, the More at www.aimch.co.uk
project embarked on a study to measure and profile Embodied Carbon
CSIC appoints Andy Outram as new chair Construction Scotland Innovation Centre
John Forster, Andy will oversee a new
(CSIC) has announced the appointment of
era at CSIC as the innovation centre looks
Andy Outram as its new chairperson. Andy
to drive the construction sector’s role in
has extensive experience across the UK’s
delivering a green recovery from Covid-19,
construction sector, having worked in the
supported by digital transformation, cultural
industry for 35 years. He is currently lead
change, sustainable building, and advanced
director for real estate in Scotland at Turner
manufacturing techniques.
& Townsend, the global professional services company, and has been a divisional director
it was launched in 2014,” said Andy
on the firm’s project management board since
Outram. “Having worked on some of the
2015.
early strategies, it has been great to see it become an ever more integral part of
new technology and innovation that can
project management director on a range of
Scotland’s construction sector. Our industry
enhance performance and productivity,
high-profile strategic projects in Scotland
has been placed front and centre of the
but we also need the capacity and diversity
including the 2014 Commonwealth Games
Covid-19 recovery. As we face this challenge,
of talent to help drive this forward. I am
Athlete’s Village, the SSE Hydro Arena, and
and even bigger threats such as the climate
honoured to be taking on the role of chair
The Event Centre Aberdeen (TECA). Taking
emergency, we need to accelerate our
and privileged to be helping CSIC in the
over the chair role from Forster Group’s
transformation. Crucial to this is embracing
charge for change.”
During his career, Andy has acted as a
“I have actively supported CSIC since
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FEATURE UK MARKET FOCUS
Timber Demand & Supply To help shed greater light on the state of the timber market, the TTF recently released a publication putting the current situation into context. Here are a few stand out points on where the UK market sits.
A
s the body representing more than four-fifths of the wood supplied and traded in the UK, the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) released a ‘market statement’ on the timber supply situation, to “directly address
reports appearing in the media via other commentators and refresh the understanding of wood-users throughout the supply chain on current market dynamics.” The statement makes clear where the market has changed in the last two years in particular. “Prior to 2020, the two abortive attempts at Brexit
traditionally supplying
had seen both suppliers and wood users respond to uncertainty by stock-
the UK have instituted log export bans, which
piling large volumes of timber and wood products in case of disruption.
puts additional pressure on supplies. The Republic of Ireland is having
This created artificially-high stock availability. As each attempt at Brexit
its own internal difficulties over log harvesting, impacting the UK
failed, it created artificially-low pricing, reflecting the extreme over-supply
construction supply chain. Higher log prices are already being paid by
in the marketplace, which then passed through the supply chain.
sawmills at home and abroad – higher costs are then passed through
“Timber is still being imported and produced in the UK, however due
national and international supply chains.
to pandemic-driven factors and high domestic and international demand,
“Supply will tighten as 2021 progresses: sawmills in Europe normally
the formerly-abundant stock levels enjoyed by buyers in the UK have not
enter a period of shut-down for repair, maintenance and holidays in June/
been able to be re-built since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.
July. Demand continues to be high, particularly for structural and other
“Across the globe, lockdowns and the consequent move to home-
softwood materials, panel products and hardwoods, across the world. This
based working have altered market dynamics: unprecedented international
will exacerbate the supply situation. The TTF’s UK Softwood Conference in
demand continues for house-building, DIY projects, garden improvements,
March revealed that softwood demand is forecast to increase worldwide
home extensions, home offices and other refurbishments. Exceptionally
at least until 2025 and will likely continue upwards for some years to come.
high global demand for timber, as its carbon storage potential in
The situation for buyers, both on upward price trajectories and on tight
construction is grasped and embraced across construction, combined with
supplies, is thus unlikely to change at any time in the near future.”
supply pipeline restrictions, are motivating pricing upwards: demand is outstripping current production capacity.”
TTF chief executive David Hopkins said: “We hope by sharing this information it may help our members in their conversations and
As the UK Government has encouraged the construction sector
business activity by placing our current situation into a wider context.
to ‘build back better’, a fresh impetus has been injected into the
In our view the market position should be phrased as a DEMAND rather
housebuilding sector with projects now moving swiftly to catch up,
than as a supply situation. Timber is still being imported and produced
further pressuring supplies.
at high volumes.
“Other countries internationally are prepared to pay higher prices than
“However, the surge in demand for construction materials this year
traditionally agreed by UK timber purchasers, heightening the perception
means customers may not be able to purchase timber as readily off the
of value. UK-grown timber supplies are insufficient to replace the level
shelves as they have been used to. We advise users of timber to work
of imported timber demanded by UK construction and refurbishment.
closely with suppliers on their purchasing strategies, and to take a forward-
Timber suppliers are doing their best to service customers, but the level
looking perspective on securing supplies.
of demand is currently higher than can be swiftly gratified by existing
“This approach will remain important, as recent reports have shown
production facilities and available input supplies across the UK and Europe.
we can expect demand to continue to be high, particularly for structural
This applies to both timber and panel products.
and other softwood materials. We also know that traditionally sawmills in
“Brexit-related factors are also affecting the ability of importers to import. Around 80% of the softwood used in Britain’s building,
Europe normally enter a period of shut-down for repair, maintenance and holidays in June and July, and this will keep supply tight.”
fit-out and refurbishment sectors comes in from countries in the European Union and further afield on the Continent. This rises to
The full TTF Market Statement is freely available to download at
around 90% in newbuild housing. Some timber-producing countries
www.ttf.co.uk
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A. Proctor Group expands firerated systems offering
Lathams broadens offer with Irish addition Timber and materials supplier James Latham Ltd has expanded its Irish service offer following the opening of a bulk timber distribution business just outside of Dublin.
A new tape for use with fire-rated internal vapour control layers is now available from the A. Proctor Group.
The company has taken on the stocks and sales team of hardwoods supplier Tradewoods, and will now operate under the Lathams Direct Timber brand (LDT), trading as LDT Ireland, based out of the existing Warehouse and premises in Naul.
Procheck® FR Tape, a B-s2,d0 aluminium-faced, air and vapour tight product, is designed to be used with Procheck A2 and Procheck FR200 vapour control layers (VCLs) which are part of the fire-rated system solutions available from the A. Proctor Group. The tape is used to seal the horizontal and vertical overlaps of these VCLs, as well as over the fixings, around penetrations and junctions, to ensure the internal air and vapour barrier is one continuous, seamless layer.
LDT is one of the UK’s largest hardwood timber importers. It was set up by Lathams to provide customers with easier access to hardwoods, direct from the port. Andy Duffin, Timber Director at Lathams, said: “When the opportunity arose to purchase the Tradewoods stocks and set up a new outlet in Naul it made sense as it allows us to more easily serve the Irish market. It also expands our supply chain relationships and adds new products to our portfolio.
When tested to EN 13501-1 as part of a system together with Procheck A2, Procheck FR Tape helped the build-up maintain the membranes’ original fire-ratings of A2-s1,d0. This rating exceed the minimum requirement of B-s3,d0 for construction membranes used in external walls.
“Our LDT business makes it much more straightforward for customers to purchase hardwoods and softwoods. Because we offer landed stock, they have faster access to materials and don’t have to worry about managing shipping and customs requirements and costs.”
Responding to this belt-and-braces approach, the A. Proctor Group’s Specification Manager, James Brackenreed-Johnston, commented that having an option that “goes above and beyond the minimum of what current regulations require” is a wise strategy for specifiers to consider. This is particularly relevant today, considering the upcoming changes the new Code for Construction Product Information guidance will have on material specifications in the future.
The stock range includes temperate and tropical species, including African hardwoods, such as Iroko and Sapele, North American varieties including Cherry, Maple and Red Oak and Cedar from Canada. Over time, further products will be added to the LDT Ireland range to bring the offer in line with the existing LDT business. These will include Accoya and the WoodEx branded engineered timber, as well as a range of European hardwoods.
Procheck FR Tape is the latest addition to A. Proctor Group’s extensive range of fire-rated system solutions. Along with the previously mentioned internal VCL systems, their offering also includes fire-rated external breather membranes and air barrier systems, as well as the thinnest A2 insulation for interior applications available on the market.
Whilst the market is very volatile currently, Lathams will endeavour to secure the volumes required to service this valuable market. To find out more visit www.directtimber.co.uk For more information about James Latham please visit www.lathamtimber.co.uk.
For more information contact www.proctorgroup.com
Fireshield® chosen for science centre of Kensington & Chelsea school
Timber frame construction the West Fraser way
Timber frame construction brings many benefits to the housebuilding industry, including quicker build times, quieter assembly, fewer deliveries to site, cost savings and a reduction in defects. Underpinning these advantages, West Fraser’s engineered wood-based panel products are an integral part of many timber frame systems. They are regularly seen as the number one choice for all aspects of home building, be it the structure, flooring or interior. West Fraser’s high quality boards are available in a wide range of grades and, with minimal finishing required, speed up construction. The products are incredibly versatile, offer value for money and have good environmental credentials with a low carbon footprint as all are made in the UK. In fact, all West Fraser panel products are net carbon negative and so can help the builder achieve sustainability targets.
Fireshield® vapour permeable membrane, which is designed specifically to improve the fire protection behind cladding has been chosen for a new Science Centre at Bevington Primary school in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, London. The project includes a brand new Science Studio, plus before and after school club buildings. SIP Build UK was appointed as frame subcontractor for the project and chose the Fireshield membrane as part of the SIPS panelling system. Chris Duckworth from SIP Build UK explains: “We chose Fireshield as it provided the project with a number of really important benefits. Fireshield is a high-performance breather membrane which enables us to achieve the requirements in terms of fire protection without compromising on vapour control.
Ideal for structural applications and offering great value, West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero is stronger and tougher than ply, with no knots, voids or de-lamination. It is the first OSB product to be made in the UK with zero added formaldehyde, so it is a ‘greener’ board that meets all standards with ease. The range comprises panels specifically designed to fulfil the full range of timber frame applications, including structural use in dry or humid load-bearing conditions. When it comes to dry lining applications, SterlingOSB Zero StrongFix is precision engineered with a custom groove for metal C-studs at 600mm centres. The consistent density of OSB means fixtures and fittings of up to 400kg can be attached anywhere on the panel and achieve secure anchorage.
Fireshield was also ideal because it is easy to use and allowed us to achieve the requirements in one process, using just the membrane, rather than the typical approach of two, cement board and a membrane.” Fireshield is the culmination of leading research to produce a vapour permeable membrane with a intumescent coated surface, which has a unique composition that actively reacts to help protect the materials underneath. The intumescent coating helps protect the substrate by reducing the risk of fire taking hold and significantly reduces the formation of droplets and smoke.
For flat roof decking and flooring applications, SterlingOSB Zero Tongue & Groove is the go-to solution. Advanced, high-strength flooring is provided by the CaberFloor system, the most specified moisture-resistant P5 flooring. Versatile, stable, durable and designed to be easy to lay, the CaberFloor range includes CaberShield+ and CaberDek. CaberShield+ offers a permanent waterproof coating on both sides while CaberDek has a strong, waterproof and slip-resistant peelable film that, when removed, leaves a clean, finished floor. They are enhanced by CaberFix, a range of specially developed powerful sealing and fixing systems.
The BBA Certificate awarded to Fireshield confirms that it has enhanced performance in relation to reaction to fire classification, will reduce the risk of interstitial condensation, and will have a life equal to that of the building in which it is installed. Fireshield complies with BS5250, BS4016 and NHBC requirements for vapour permeable walling underlays. It is installed and fixed to the substrate in the same manner as standard breather membranes using mechanical fixings. Applications include both commercial and residential buildings including apartments and student accommodation, as well as Rainscreen cladding and applications over 18m high (11m in Scotland).
When it comes to quality finishing and architectural details, CaberWood MDF is the ideal solution. This versatile range is designed as an economical alternative to hardwood but without the inherent defects of knots or grains. The boards are engineered with consistent density for multiple uses, including mouldings. As with other West Fraser ranges, there are products for all applications.
For more information contact www.proctorgroup.com
Timber Construction Magazine
For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit uk.westfraser.com
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