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AUTUMN 2021 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2515–8686 (PRINT)
VASTERN TIMBER 18 Growing local timber supply chains and meeting the demand for timber SKILLS & EDUCATION 12
TIMBER EXPO 2021 28
Can the timber industry ‘build back better’ and cope with the pressures of future design and build?
What to look out for as UK Construction Week returns to bring the buzz back to industry networking
TIMBER CONSTRUCTION ISSUE 17 CONTENTS
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News........................................................................................02 The latest news and views from across the industry.
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The Keys to Future Growth.............................................12 As we build back better and greener post pandemic, there will be an added emphasis on skills and training, says Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation.
Train to Gain: what skills do we need?.......................14 Brian Mackintosh, design and sales training and development manager at Pasquill, explores how the timber construction skills we need are changing..
22
A Glimpse of the Future....................................................16 The winners and highly commended of the Riverside Sunderland University Design Challenge were recently announced following an incredibly competitive six-month event.
Cover Story: Vastern Timber .........................................18 Tom Barnes, managing director of Vastern Timber explains how local alternatives to imports and shorter supply chains will help to meet the high demand for timber.
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Fast & Flexible Living........................................................20 Beattie Passive are preparing to revolutionise housebuilding with their new range of modular, zero carbon homes.
Woodfibre and Healthy Homes.....................................22 ‘The Paddock’ is a super example of how you can reinvent the classic country cottage as a thermally efficient, timber frame, Passivhaus home.
Give it the Right Fire Treatment...................................26 Intumescent paints are an important element of passive fire protection.
Timber Expo 2021...............................................................28 Timber Expo is back as a live event at the NEC this October, retaking its place as the UK’s only dedicated timber trade show.
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01925 270093
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Artwork: Pete Awad artwork@timbermedia.co.uk
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New Welsh Timber Framer Aims for Local Supply.....36
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University students win national architecture competition Architecture students from Robert Gordon University (RGU) are celebrating winning a national competition for highly energy efficient buildings that will feature at the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow later this year. Four students from Robert Gordon University’s Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment have won the prestigious ‘Icebox Challenge Glasgow’ award, after designing a vibrant energy efficient building. The aim of the competition was to create an energy efficient building that was judged on design, cost-effectiveness, innovation, energy supply and sustainability. The ‘Icebox Challenge Glasgow’ is a competition open to students from across Scotland who were challenged with creating a building that was both innovative and eye-catching. The competition asked students to design one structure built to Scottish Building Standards and another built to a more environmentally friendly, ‘Passive House’ standard. The structures will be left outside for three weeks, each holding an equal amount of ice. When opened, the amount of ice left in each box will be measured. How much ice remains will demonstrate how well each ice box keeps out the heat. The team of architecture students from Robert Gordon University’s Scott Sutherland School created a winning design celebrating a traditional highland building using timber, herringbone cladding, stained red, green, and yellow, that was inspired by the natural colours of the highlands. They also took inspiration from the Integra House designed by RGU Professor Gokay Deveci. One of the winners, mature architecture student, Matthew Clubb, from Aberdeenshire said: “I am absolutely thrilled that students at RGU have won the ‘Icebox Challenge Glasgow’.We have worked hard as a team to create a building that is vibrant aesthetically and embraces passive design and prefabrication. “We drew inspiration from the Scottish Highlands and incorporated design features and materials that would
Yogini Patel from the Passivhaus Trust said: “Passivhaus is a proven
minimise our building’s embodied carbon. It is fantastic that our
solution to slash energy use, back by three decades of performance
designs will be showcased and built at a public installation in Glasgow
evidence from across the globe. Efficiency is crucial to meet net-
city centre ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference.”
zero carbon targets. The Icebox Challenge has travelled the globe,
Head of The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture & Built
and this year comes to Glasgow in the run up to COP26. Student
Environment, Professor David McClean said: “We are delighted that a
design competitions like this offer valuable opportunities for our
group of architect students from Robert Gordon University has won this
next generation of architects and designers to get inspired by the
exciting national competition and will gain international exposure. The
climate action they can engage in. We anticipate the public installation
climate imperative occupies an increasingly central position in the education
will capture people’s attention, facilitate vital discussions and, raise
of architects, and in practice itself, and it is wonderful to see students
awareness of the impact of simple solutions such as Passivhaus.”
motivated to engage creatively in this way and of their own volition. “In the face of advancing climate change, the design of energy
In addition to gaining international exposure thanks to the run-up to COP26 and involvement from the International Passive
efficient buildings is now more important than ever. Building
House Association, the winning group will be awarded £1000 from
substantially on our research expertise, the School is constantly
the Glasgow Institute of Architects (GIA) after the fabrication and
reinforcing the development of knowledge and skills in sustainable
public display stages. The ‘Icebox Challenge Glasgow’ is run by the
practices across the breadth of its curricula. I am delighted that the
International Passive House Association and The Passivhaus Trust, who
judges of the Icebox Challenge Glasgow, have recognised our talent and
are a global network of architects
that our students’ work will be showcased to a global audience ahead More at www.iceboxchallenge.org
of the UN Climate Change summit in Glasgow.”
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
dRMM’s Timber Beacon shortlisted for COP26 ‘Timber Beacon’ is dRMM’s response to the collective brief of a unique global timber industry collaboration. The 25+ strong alliance of innovators in engineered mass timber and wood-based products, global forest growth and development, is led by the UK Timber Trade Federation and CEI-Bois, the European Confederation of Woodworking Industries. “As world leaders discuss our global responsibilities and collective response to climate change during COP26, our message for the future will be powerfully three dimensional: in wood there is hope. Timber Beacon is a wayfinding object and storytelling device showcasing timber’s ability
The ambition is to erect the Timber Beacon at COP26 in Glasgow, UK
to outperform other building materials in terms of carbon, strength, and
in November, then take it on to London for the World of Wood Festival
beauty,” says dRMM founding director, Professor Alex de Rijke
immediately after. Later plans include taking the Timber Beacon to the EU
Paul Brannen, director of public affairs at CEI-Bois, said “The global
Parliament to continue advocating for policy change which acknowledge
timber and global forest sectors see COP26 as the unmissable opportunity
wood’s undisputed credentials as the only regenerative material that can
for policy makers to put into action what we already know about nature-
deliver large scale construction.
based solutions; global forests and wood products are essential to averting catastrophic climate change, and increasing the use of timber products is an
Sponsorship is being sought to realise the full potential of this project.
easy way to help decarbonise construction, renovation, and the wider built
To find out more, contact paul.brannen@cei-bois.org. This initiative
environment. Wood both stores carbon and substitutes for carbon intensive
is supported by UK Aid, under the UK Foreign, Commonwealth &
alternatives. We are also focused on globally recognised good governance
Development Office’s FGMC programme (Forest Governance, Markets
as the key to growing forests around the world.”
and Climate).
UK visit by ambassador helps promote Indonesian wood products
As part of their trip, the delegation enjoyed a visit of the Hanson Plywood warehouse where they inspected Indonesian Timber products.
(L-R) Mochamad Rizalu Akbar, Trade Attache, Indonesian Ambassador to the UK, H.E. Desra Percaya and Adi Winarso, Minister Councillor of Economic Affairs
In a bid to encourage UK timber importers to
the implementation of UK-Indonesia FLEGT-VPA
from both countries could provide regulatory and
increase their purchase of legal and sustainable
by seeking creative ways to increase supply
market incentives support as stated in the UK-
timber from Indonesia, a delegation from the
sustainability of legal and sustainable timber
Indonesia FLEGT-VPA “.
Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia has visited
products from Indonesia and ensure that such
a number of manufacturers across the country.
high-quality timbers remain as the critical part of
premium quality timber products from Indonesia,
the UK industry’s supply chain”.
Pacific Rim Wood, who supply a number of
With FLEGT and legal and sustainable timber products at the top of their agenda - and led by
“Cooperation should be intensified to add
UK sales agents and representatives for
timber products to these manufacturers, helped
Indonesian Ambassador to the UK, H.E. Desra
more value to Indonesia’s FLEGT certified timber
organise the visit. Managing Director, Shaun
Percaya - the delegation visited James Latham,
products and to replicate a similar mechanism
Hannan commented, “It has been an honour to
Hanson Plywood, Lambson Building Products and
with other forest and agriculture commodities.
host the visit, which has already been heralded as
Caravan manufacturer Willerby.
A holistic approach which involves all relevant
a major success in helping to raise awareness of
stakeholders is indispensable. Business and
Indonesian FLEGT licensed timber products as well
commitment to further strengthen the mutually
industry associations, as well as consumers and
as encouraging UK importers and stakeholders to
beneficial partnership between Indonesia and
NGOs, play a critical role in shaping perspective
increase their purchase of legal and sustainable
the UK. “We should seize the momentum of
and demand, while governments and parliaments
timber products from Indonesia.”
During his visit, the Ambassador reiterated his
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Highlands & Islands look to new peatland construction methods More environmentally friendly methods for laying housing
peatland would be minimised, especially the presence groundwater,
foundations on peatland could pave the way for increased economic
which is essential if peat is to continue to accumulate.
development in parts of the Highlands and Islands, while mitigating
The aim of the first phase of the project is to assess and compare
disruption to the natural ecosystem and captured carbon dioxide.
the geotechnical suitability, environmental impact, logistics and cost
A research consortium involving Edinburgh Napier University
implications of the different approaches. In a second phase, live field
and Heriot-Watt University, with support from the Highland Council,
trials are planned to assess the suitability of proposed solutions.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Construction Scotland
Julia Stoddart, chief operating officer at Jahama Highland Estates,
Innovation Centre (CSIC) and JAHAMA Highland Estates is assessing the
said: “Preserving and restoring peatland to keep carbon sequestered
feasibility of a range of construction methods to minimise disturbance
and enhance biodiversity is central to the land management work
to peat and mitigate the environmental impacts. The Scottish
happening right now across JAHAMA Highland Estates. With over
Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), NatureScot, ECOSystems Tech
14,000ha of peatland on the estate, restoration work forms a
Ltd and the Scottish Government are also supporting the initiative.
significant part of our parent organisation GFG Alliance’s efforts to
Peatland plays an important role in Scotland’s natural landscape
offset the carbon footprint of its industrial operations as it progresses
and ecosystem, comprising of dead and decaying plant material with
towards carbon neutrality by 2030. As a large employer in the local
carbon captured in the remains. As much as 20% of Scottish land is
area, GFG Alliance also recognises the importance of this research in
covered in peat soil serving as a significant carbon store for more
addressing the long-standing issues concerning housing stock in the
than 1.7 billion tonnes of carbon - equivalent to 140 years’ worth of
Highlands. We are committed to reconnecting people and place in
Scotland’s total annual greenhouse gas emissions. However, the soil is
Lochaber and Badenoch. Releasing constrained land for sustainable
often unsuitable for building upon because of low strength, landslide
new housing would be transformative for our local communities.”
risks and its tendency to deform under load.
Scott Dingwall, head of regional development, Lochaber, Skye
In parts of the Highlands and Islands, where peatland is commonly
and Wester Ross, at Highlands and Islands Enterprise, added: “The
found, new housing is in short supply and some sites earmarked for
availability of suitable affordable housing is a key factor in regional
housing development can be complicated by the presence of peat.
development across the Highlands and Islands. It is needed to attract
Finding viable, sustainable methods for building on peatland that align
and retain young people as well as inward investors looking to locate in
with restoration work already underway, could transform Scotland’s
the region. This innovative project has the potential to make it feasible
approach to rural housing. Good quality, affordable homes could help
to develop housing on areas where it previously would not have been
to reverse population decline and promote economic growth in rural
considered. This could benefit rural economies and strengthen local
areas, encouraging a young and talented workforce to move to, and
communities, while protecting some of the region’s outstanding
remain in, the Highlands and Islands.
natural features. As such, it could be a key element in our shift towards
Construction teams have previously relied on excavate-and-replace
a carbon neutral economy and achieving our net-zero targets. We are
techniques, however, this project will explore a number of options that
very pleased to be able to provide support and look forward to seeing
allow peat - and stored carbon - to be left in place, such as deep-soil-
the project progress.”
mixing, and piling. Timber piling would use tree trunks or long poles More at www.cs-ic.org/innovationcentre
of timber to carry the foundations of a building. Disturbance of the
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Kirkwood Homes invest £2m in new timber frame business Kirkwood Timber Frame is being launched to reflect strong industry growth and to target the upsurge in demand from homeowners for self-build and home improvement developments post-Covid. Work will begin shortly on the expansion of Kirkwood’s Sauchen timber manufacturing base to allow for a five-fold increase in capacity, with the firm also investing in the latest digital machinery. Colin Crombie, Kirkwood Homes managing director, said: “This is a year of significant expansion and investment for our business. The construction industry has played a vital role in driving economic
Business development director Malcolm Thomson: “We have
recovery from the Covid pandemic and we are continuing to see strong
an experienced, highly skilled team who fully understand the
demand as homeowners and developers increasingly recognise the
requirements, pressures and processes of homebuilders. We will be
benefits of using timber as a versatile, energy-efficient, and more
collaborating with small to large regional builders, contractors and
durable, sustainable method of constructing their homes.
developers, as well as making life easier for individual homeowners
“Activity across our luxury homes developments in Aberdeenshire
across every stage of their self-build journey. As we emerge from
and Tayside remains buoyant and we are delighted to have in the pipeline
lockdown, so many of us are taking steps to extend and improve our
a range of exciting new home developments in desirable locations
homes.
across Scotland. This is absolutely the right time to target investment
Kirkwood’s newly expanded manufacturing base is expected to
for future growth by supplying a wider market. We have an ambitious
be fully on-stream, complete with new digitally-linked production line
growth strategy, and the establishment of Kirkwood Timber Frame
machinery, by early 2022.
will accelerate this as we develop new relationships with builders and More at www.kirkwoodtimberframe.co.uk
contractors and further expand our presence in the self-build market.”
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Lockerbie visitor building wins Scottish Design Awards James Jones’s new visitor building has won two awards in the Scottish Design Awards 2021, winning both the Architecture award for a ‘Commercial/Office/Hotel Building or Project’ and the overall ‘Architecture Grand Prix for Architecture’. The Judges said: “As a business, they’re putting their stamp on the building. Simple, elegant, sustainable and a showcase for its owner.” The Lockerbie site is the largest single site sawmill complex in the UK and the most technically advanced. As such, pre-pandemic, Lockerbie received a high number of visitors – including small groups of customer visits, customer training courses, academic institutions, and industry events. The idea for the building recognised the need to provide increased office accommodation, better visitor facilities, and the opportunity to host on-site training courses and industry meetings, which previously had to be conducted offsite. James Jones & Sons held a design competition between two architectural firms and the winning team was
use of solid and engineered timber products are a great example of
Konishi Gaffney from Edinburgh, led by Kieran Gaffney.
how timber can be used to deliver high quality office and meeting
Kieran Gaffney said: “We are really pleased and proud to have been
areas. Konishi Gaffney architects were able to articulate this in the
recognised in these awards. Both in the commercial category, which
building’s design and its fantastic their efforts have been recognised by
had some very strong work, and the Grand Prix for Architecture which is
the Scottish Design Awards.”
a very exciting achievement. Working with James Jones & Sons on their
The Scottish Design Awards are open to all architects, engineers,
visitor building was a brilliant opportunity to showcase their materials
graphic, interior and digital designers to celebrate class leading work,
and explore the possibilities of timber construction.”
best practice, sustainability and innovation in all its forms.
Speaking about the awards, Rob MacKenna, general manager at More at www.jamesjones.co.uk
James Jones Lockerbie site added: “The striking design and innovative
SO Modular increases production capacity by 700% SO Modular, the timber frame construction specialist, has increased its production capacity by 700% thanks to a significant six-figure investment in new machinery at its new 350,000sq ft timber and modular manufacturing facility in Neath, South Wales. The development of the facility began in April 2020 and is set for an official launch at the end of summer 2021. Once completed, with all the new machinery installed and running, the site will immediately be able to expand from its current production capacity of 500 homes per year to 3,500 homes per year on a single shift. The new machinery includes a treatment tank, production lines, a biomass boiler, a Hundegger TURBODrive II Saw, a vertical saw and a factory blow insulation machine. The Hundegger TURBO-Drive II Saw will speed up timber processes, increase accuracy and reduce waste with the use of computer software technology. The new treatment tank will allow high- and low-pressure treatments, meaning SO Modular will be able to treat not only standard timber but also timbers that require a higher level of treatment such as sole plates. This makes it far more cost effective than imported pre-treated timber, helping the company to achieve its affordable homes target. Charlotte Hale, Operations Director at SO Modular, said: “These new, efficient machines will go a long will in aiding us to establish a state-of-
more affordable, low carbon homes to help the UK meet zero-carbon targets, protect the environment and address the country’s need for affordable housing.”
the-art, sustainable manufacturing facility in Wales. Furthermore, this More at www.somodular.co.uk
acquirement will allow us to create new jobs in the area and provide even
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Building greener homes safely
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
AIMCH calls for game-changing solutions to innovation challenge erection standardised solutions, including modular stairs, bathroom pods, and preformed windows and doors and zero carbon solutions, with a particular interest in heat pumps, underfloor heating, convection heaters, battery storage, and lower lambda mineral wool. Successful partners could see their products and services trialled on live housing projects, with successful methods subsequently being commercialised and brought to market in volume. Daniel Shea, AIMCH partner and technical innovation co-ordinator, Barratt Developments Plc, said: “What we are looking for from the sandpit challenge is for suppliers to bring forward truly innovative and unique near to market solutions that have the potential to be scalable. Already we have witnessed the success of new product and system trials during the first two years of the AMICH project and we know that there are many more companies out there who are innovating and can play their part in helping to transform the sector. We need to find more sustainable ways of building quality new homes and achieving a net zero-carbon built environment, and Advanced Industrialised Methods for the Construction of Homes
we need game-changers who can support this transformation.”
(AIMCH) is inviting suppliers to enter the sandpit challenge to
Innovators who can play their part in delivering the project aims are
showcase their innovative products or services, demonstrating how
encouraged to submit their proposals by completing the application
they can deliver industrialised offsite solutions required to meet
form on the AIMCH website. Successful applicants will then be invited
current and future housebuilding demands.
to participate in a workshop hosted by one of three AIMCH partners,
There are three challenge areas for suppliers to submit their
L&Q, Stewart Milne Group or Barratt Developments Plc.
technically and commercially promising products and systems: More at www.aimch.co.uk
advanced MMC Solutions, with a particular focus on scaffoldless
Scandia-Hus choose Actis Hybrid for showhome The UK’s largest designer and supplier of Swedish energy saving timber framed homes has chosen Actis Hybrid products for the third time to insulate its latest showhome. Scandia-Hus was so impressed by the thermal efficiency achieved in the first two homes it built at its Sussex HQ that it is replicating the precise specification it used on those buildings for its latest creation. Once completed, architects expect it will offer the same U-values achieved in the initial two buildings - 0.14 in the roof and 0.16 in the walls. The 2,680sq ft, three-bedroom chalet bungalow, built to ScandiaHus’ Mulberry design will have brick exterior cladding, a clay tile roof and cream cottagey windows. It will act both as a show home and an educational tool to showcase the components of a timber frame building. The first floor will be used as a seminar space on Scandia-Hus’ various open days throughout the year.
Scandia-Hus managing director Derek Dawson said: “Actis Hybris is easy to install. The panels are easy to cut to exactly the right size so
Actis regional sales manager Liane Bayliss said: “Actis Hybrid
they simply slot into the stud wall. Due to the use of service voids and
products are particularly popular with timber frame builders. Giving
the ease of installation, the insulation will now generally be installed
a hands-on demonstration of the various elements used in a build of
in one phase on site. This also ensures that the air tightness of the
this nature will be very educational, both for the potential buyers of
building is not compromised by follow up trades.”
Scandia-Hus properties and for specifiers keen to explore different More at www.insulation-actis.com
insulation products and their benefits for other build projects.”
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Planning permission granted for Cambridge ‘visionary scheme’ A recent new development for the
the first business park to address these new
team at Cambridge Innovation Parks
opportunities and challenges.”
Ltd (CIPL) has been the granting of
Cambridge Innovation Parks’ Chairman,
planning permission for three new
Rick Parisi, said: “Particular thanks to Martin
highly sustainable office and tech
Williams of Saunders Architects and 3PM
buildings, totalling 90,000sq ft, at their
Project Managers for their input into
North Cambridge innovation park at
creating this groundbreaking plan which will
Waterbeach. The decision comprises
use cutting edge technologies to create the
detailed permission for two ambitious
best possible working environment for staff
new buildings, plus outline permission
at the site and to help businesses flourish
for a third, together with an innovative
and grow. The increasing importance of
timber multi-storey car park.
‘Wellness’ in the office environment cannot
The new multi-occupancy office space
be underestimated and will inform all the
more than doubles the existing floor space
decisions taken with regard to the building
on the site, which is already home to over
of these offices.”
50 high tech and support businesses,
Martin Williams of Saunders
ranging from start-ups through to blue chip companies.
commented: “We believe that this development will be a blueprint for
The CIPL team was led by Professor John French, leading sustainability
highly sustainable business villages centred on wellbeing. This is a brand-
expert, who commented: “This is a huge credit to CIPL and the wider team
new vision for the working environment, a lifestyle which fosters a positive
of professionals that were involved in the project delivery. This visionary
work life balance, promoting sustainable, low carbon targets. It is where
scheme sets new standards for innovation and sustainability within the
new businesses and start-ups can evolve, knowing their staff will benefit.”
Cambridge Cluster and will address the challenges of climate change and More at www.cambridgeinnovationparks.co.uk
sustainability whilst also promoting enterprise and business growth. CIPL is
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ABODO finger-jointed Vulcan cladding with riven effect, from Glenalmond Timber
Timber Construction Magazine
The Timber Decking and Cladding Association is an independent, not-for-profit technical and advisory body. It was established to promote the materials, design and installation practices required to create good quality decks, associated landscape structures and cladding on buildings.
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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Castle Park View benefits from SMARTPLY PATTRESS PLUS Castle Park View is a new
which allows the dryliner to work
development aiming to
on their own if necessary. It has
regenerate a former brownfield
been found to save, on average, up
site owned by Bristol City Council
to five minutes per panel installed.
and Homes England, bringing
Over a largescale project, this has
some of the best one, two and
the potential to save a significant
three-bedroom dedicated Build-
amount of labour, time and the
to-Rent homes to the city centre.
associated costs.
When finished, it will be the
“The PATTRESS PLUS panels
tallest residential building in the
fitted within the stud centres
city centre of Bristol and will have
of 600mm/ 400mm perfectly,”
its interiors fully installed with
continued Shaun. “Not only did it
SMARTPLY PATTRESS PLUS panels
allow us to install all pattressing to
throughout, ensuring strength
a very high-quality standard, but it
and stability in the eventuality that
also eliminated the potential health
appliances will be hung or installed on the walls.
& safety hazards of trying to router the panels down on site ourselves.
Shaun Brunt, Contracts Manager for Optimum Drywall Systems,
Using the clear and easy to follow datasheet guide, we installed
who are installing the panels, said: “This is an extensive project covering
PATTRESS PLUS with ease, and it allowed us to demonstrate its many
322,000sq ft. Over such a vast area, it’s essential for us to make sure we
benefits with clear evidence to our clients.
were always running on schedule. PATTRESS PLUS has helped us to do that by saving us time in this area.”
Castle Park View will provide 375 new homes, comprising 300 one and two-bedroom private, rented sector homes and apartments, and
PATTRESS PLUS is a high strength, engineered OSB/3 pattressing
five affordable homes.
panel, precisely cut to perfectly fit into the ‘C’ shaped studs used to More at mdfosb.com/en/application/drylining
hold pattressing in place within the structure of a partition the wall,
Work begins on Hampshire retirement village Specialist later living developer,
for over 30 years. Placemaking
Castleoak, has begun work on
begins at the start of the build
a state-of-the-art retirement
and will carry throughout as we
village near Chandler’s Ford in
maintain a safe and considerate
Hampshire for award-winning
environment and work to deliver
retirement communities operator,
a finish of the highest quality of
Inspired Villages.
which future residents can be truly
Ampfield Meadows retirement
proud.”
village will create 149 later living
Jamie Bunce, CEO of Inspired
homes and address the shortage
Villages, added: “Ampfield
of suitable homes for over 65s in
Meadows will reflect the needs
the area. To commemorate the
of today’s retirees, who want to
start of work, MP for Romsey and
continue living independently, and
Southampton North, Caroline
yet take reassurance from knowing
Noakes joined several members of
support is available should they
the local and Parish Council, including Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Mark
need it. The village will provide age-appropriate homes for an ever-
Cooper for a breaking ground ceremony.
increasing market, as well as incredible facilities that will benefit both
Ampfield Meadows will be Inspired Villages’ second later living community in Hampshire, joining Bramshott Place near Liphook. The
residents and the local community and I look forward to seeing the project progress.”
decision to expand in Hampshire was a response to the vast disparity between supply and demand in the area for specialist housing. Col Knight, founder of Castleoak, said: “The physical spaces in which we live are proven to help us live longer, happier and more fulfilling
Castleoak has been appointed by Inspired Villages as construction partner for the project, which is due for completion in early 2023. The timber frames for the homes will be prefabricated at Castleoak’s offsite manufacturing facility in Ebbw Vale before being assembled on-site.
lives. That’s why we’ve chosen to specialise in creating homes and More at castleoak.co.uk
amenities for retirees, like those which will form Ampfield Meadows,
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FEATURE SKILLS & EDUCATION
The Keys to Future Growth As we build back better and greener post pandemic, there will be an added emphasis on skills and training, says Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF). Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
apprenticeships will also enable smaller and
programme, which will be in development
project-led businesses to create apprenticeship
next year.
roles, with apprentices completing their
In addition to growing our portfolio of training opportunities, we’re also evolving
course across a number of short employment opportunities within the sector.
how we deliver these to our members. Our
Helen Hewitt, BWF CEO
T
businesses to encourage the next generation
online training provision, meeting a vital need
into our profession, and through the BWF
for today’s remote learning environment and
Wood Industry Training (WIT) Forum, we
helping to develop a resilient training offer
work closely with funding partners to support
for our sector. We’re also looking at how we
member training activity to improve and
can make our online learning more interactive
increase skills across the sector.
he COVID-19 pandemic has
– for example, by using innovative gaming
undoubtedly had a significant
technology to bring training to life and to
impact on our sector’s skills
encourage upskilling within the industry.
and training efforts, reducing
This is a welcome investment in supporting
e-learning platform provides access to quality
We are encouraged to see that
School initiatives The BWF has launched several initiatives to help inspire students into a career in our sector
the opportunity for employers to provide
apprenticeship schemes are more widely
and showcase the wide range of opportunities
much needed apprenticeships and continued
being seen as a viable and rewarding
available to them. For example, the BWF’s
professional development for employees.
alternative to university across the talent
WOW I MADE THAT! programme is designed
But now, as the UK looks set to emerge from
pool. Apprenticeship schemes are now being
to provide secondary school students with the
the COVID crisis, skills and training provision
recognised as a way of starting on a rewarding
opportunity to develop an appreciation and
must become our sector’s most urgent
career path which allows young people to earn
love of woodworking, and gives teacher the
priority.
while they learn. It is therefore crucial that as
resources they need to achieve this.
Following the release of the IPCC report
a sector we act now to ensure other sectors
on the impacts of global warming, and in the
don’t lay claim to this emerging talent pool.
The programme provides the vital foundation for students considering a career
run up to COP26, the importance of promoting
This has been recognised by new
within the sector and opens up the world
‘green jobs’ in line with net zero targets cannot
government funding for high quality
of woodworking to them early on. This is
be overlooked. The UK government has outlined
traineeships and increased incentives for
particularly important for those who may not
a series of green programmes providing adults
employers to take on apprentices. New flexible
have realised the variety of opportunities
with the skills needed to pursue a career in a
available to them or who are looking for an
sustainable field – as a sector we must advocate
alternative path to going to university. We must promote the opportunities
for careers in woodworking and joinery and promote the opportunities we provide to upskill
available in our sector for skills and training
and reskill. So, what are the key areas where we
provision in order to attract a new talent
should be focusing our efforts as a sector to
workforce of people looking to work in
ensure future growth?
sustainable lower carbon sectors like ours. To ensure our sector continues to grow
Apprenticeship schemes
year on year, we must focus in particular on apprenticeship schemes as a rewarding
The BWF is constantly reviewing its skills and training offering to ensure it meets the
alternative to university. We are a strong and
needs of our members. As our sector recovers
resilient sector, but this is down to the people
from the pandemic, we’re focusing our efforts
and skills that we retain. If we don’t continue
on establishing relationships with a wider
to nurture this, then we risk jeopardising
cohort of UK training providers to increase
the continued success and future growth
the range of skills, training solutions and the
of our sector. It’s essential that we seize the
choice of providers available to our members.
opportunity we have in front of us now.
The developments in our skills and training offering will also inform the BWF’s future
Timber Construction Magazine
Bailey Donkin, BWF Apprentice of the Year 2019
Autumn 2021
12
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FEATURE SKILLS & EDUCATION
Train to Gain: what skills do we need? Brian Mackintosh, design and sales training and development manager at Pasquill, explores the issues contributing to the skills gap in the timber industry, how the timber construction skills we need are changing and what companies can do to create their own pipeline of talent.
T
he timber industry skills gap isn’t new. For years we’ve
in Scotland, offer funding so there has never been a better time for
recognised that more people are leaving the sector than
timber companies to take a proactive approach to training. I understand
joining. Now, however, the perfect storm of Covid-19,
that many – regardless of sector – find the levy needlessly complex, but
Brexit and the changing demographics of the workforce
it is still a vital means to help companies access funding and provides
have culminated in the ONS reporting that 83,000 fewer people were
the building blocks for a stronger workforce. In particular, it’s a great
employed within the construction industry within April - June 2021 alone.
option while businesses are keen to minimise their overheads in the
A recent report has also suggested that 750,000 construction workers
recovery from Covid-19.
are likely to retire in the next 15 years with only 20% of workers being
Meanwhile at Pasquill we’ve also introduced our own internal
under the age of 30 . In addition to people leaving the sector, we have seen
training programme, to provide young people with an opportunity to
a significant drop in young people gaining the training they need to get
work towards a Pasquill certification while learning valuable skills within
involved in the industry.
the business. This involves creating a progression plan for each junior
Despite a waning workforce, one thing everyone in the industry seems to agree on is the urgent need for new housing. Not only do we need to
designer which is signed off by four managers: line manager, technical manager, regional manager and training manager.
attract new people to the sector, but we also need to address that the way we build houses is changing – and therefore so are the skills we need. The uptake of modern methods of construction (MMC) and offsite manufacturing (OSM) are positive developments. After all, they can reduce
We believe this certifies the quality of their training and supports our aim is to reduce the amount it takes for them to become a designer from two and a half years to two years. Existing employees can be partnered with experienced mentors to nurture their talents and teach them new skills.
the time it takes to build new houses by 50%, are more cost-efficient and help sustainability by reducing waste.
All we look for in a junior designer is the right attitude, a keen interest in the construction industry and technical design and a desire
But it also means that while traditional skills such as carpentry and
to learn and develop. In return, we provide them with guidance on
joinery will always be needed in housebuilding, we should also turn
everything from timber grading, training to understand the complex
our attention to training machinery operators who can produce high
software we use and customer service skills, all delivered via modules
specification timber frame houses or components. In addition, we need
spaced out across the two-year program.
more skilled timber engineering designers, who can bring a structure to life in a 3D computer model before it’s assembled.
Passing the baton
How do we tackle the issue?
particularly for designers with the skills to unlock the potential of timber
There is huge potential for employment within the timber industry, Unfortunately for us, skilled designers do not grow on trees. We’ve
as a construction material. But we all need to make a commitment to
recognised that the only way to maintain a continuous pipeline of talent is
bridging this ongoing skills gap in order to develop a workforce with the
to develop our own training programme. People should undertake training
depth of skills to effectively deliver on the need for new housing. Plus,
no matter their age or what stage they are at in their career. As a sector we
on a personal level, we owe it to the younger generation to give them a
should review the notion that apprentices are typically school leavers – at
head start in the industry. After all, they are the future.
Pasquill we have management undertaking advanced apprenticeships. More at www.pasquill.co.uk/careers-with-pasquill/
Schemes, such as the Government’s Apprenticeship Levy in
training-development
England and Wales and the £15 million Apprenticeship Employer Grant
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Autumn 2021
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FEATURE SKILLS & EDUCATION
A Glimpse of the Future The winners and highly commended of the Riverside Sunderland University Design Challenge (#RSUDC21) were recently announced following an incredibly competitive six-month event.
F
rom a group of more than 300 students from 39
of construction and inclusive design would deliver a truly sustainable
universities and 27 interdisciplinary teams, the winners
community. The winning team was Team M comprising of: Aidana Roberts
of #RSUDC21 were selected following a live event
(Cardiff University), Brian Cheuk Yan Ho (University of Bath), Chian Ying
where students presented their projects to a panel of
Xuan (University of Sheffield) Dakari Brathwaite (University of West
expert judges representing the best of UK construction. #RSUDC21 encouraged students to design, engineer, plan and cost a
London) Kersten Chandy Mathew (Cardiff University), Milda Klimanskyte (University of West London) and Oisin Higgins (University College Dublin). Andy von Bradsky, Head of Architecture at MHCLG said: “We felt this
three-bedroom family home along with an indicative masterplan for 100 homes which meet RIBA2030 Climate Challenge targets. Riverside Sunderland is a major regeneration site in the city centre, that
scheme was a comprehensive response to all senses of the brief. We were really excited to the commitment to the sense of place and community, with
stands on the edge of the Wear. Transformation is being led by Sunderland
an aim to create a place which would be a gem in the future of Sutherland.
City Council. Underpinned by £100 million from Legal & General, Riverside
It really understood the context, the wider area, even looking to how it may
Sunderland will be a vibrant new urban quarter, with 1,000 ultra-sustainable
compensate for lack of facilities elsewhere in the city to be not just satisfying
homes, 1m sq ft of office space and exciting new places to play and enjoy.
for the people who live there, but a place to visit for the wider area. “The design considers the riverside location to enhance the
Students from across the UK were invited in this competition to collaborate, innovate, and create future-facing designs which reimagine
environmental, social and design value for their communities and
how residents might live, work, and play together in beautiful, low-
comprehensively addresses the technical, landscape and carbon aspects
carbon, and multi-generational housing. Designs from the teams include
of their house and masterplan, making this scheme almost buildable. It
landscapes and streetscapes with green and open spaces against the
would give real design teams a run for their money.” Team M said: “We’ve found this challenge hugely rewarding from
backdrop of Riverside Sunderland, while making use of low-carbon materials with timber and timber-hybrid systems the main material focus.
technical, team collaboration and social perspectives. Industry experts from
The judges felt that the standard of entries was exceptionally high
the lectures organised by Tabitha Binding TTF/TRADA/TDUK have provided
and that all of the teams excelled in creating designs that connected with
incredible insight into all things sustainable construction, architecture,
the history and ambition of the area and imagined how modern methods
landscaping, urban design, project management, cost consulting as well as;
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Autumn 2021
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FEATURE SKILLS & EDUCATION
structural, civil and building services engineering. Industry experts refreshed
modern, aspirational, low carbon and integrated designs for the new homes
conventional solutions and introduced novel, unconventional and exotic
and community on the Vaux site. You certainly didn’t let us down and we
solutions to problems not normally explored in our academic studies.
were absolutely astounded by the quality, flair, and diversity of the entries we
“The collaborative, international, interdisciplinary nature of this
received. Sunderland City Council really wants to provide the best homes and
challenge made us question the impacts of our decisions not only upon
the best communities for its residents, and through challenges like this we
our colleagues in other disciplines but also public and private end users,
hope that we can inspire young people to influence the future of our city and
clients, the environment, biodiversity, flora, fauna, as a well as logistics
pursue careers and best practice in the housing and construction industry.”
personnel and supply chains, building professionals, maintenance/service teams, deconstruction, recycling and demolition teams. Striving for a Cradle-toCradle reduce and reuse approach rather than business as usual downcycling.” Patrick Melia, chief executive of Sunderland City Council said: “At the start of the programme I challenged the
“The design considers the riverside location to enhance the environmental, social and design value for their communities and comprehensively addresses the technical, landscape and carbon aspects of their house and masterplan, making this scheme almost buildable.”
student community to inspire us with
The 2021 Winner – Creating Value Located within the community is also
With a focus on generating environmental,
The community is served access to a
social and design value, this team sought to
range of activities and to conveniently reach
a grocer’s with sustainability focus, which
create a catalyst for a zero-carbon lifestyle.
essential services. The gymnasium is intended
offers a variety of local and seasonal produce,
The team focused their design around low-
to serve the business park east of the site
and also features a zero waste section.
embodied carbon materials which integrated
as well as residents. The restaurant on the
into the circular economy, designed for
north-facing side allows for spectacular views
University of Sunderland within close proximity,
disassembly with a flexible structure.
of the surrounding landscape and the River
the pharmacy is placed strategically to the
Concrete and cement free, the design takes
Wear. The pub and library, which flank the
west side of the site alongside the nursery,
into account the riverside location and urban
public square, serve as both pit-stops for
which faces the city centre to allow for ease of
drainage to enhance the environmental,
ramblers and, collectively, a social nexus for
safeguarding. A thoroughfare framed by arches
social and design value for their communities.
the community.
links the city centre to the public plaza.
David Hopkins, chief executive of Timber Development UK added: “These students are showcasing some of the incredible talent coming
With the School of Medicine for the
congratulations to all of our winners, and to all participants who will without doubt benefit from this learning experience.”
out of UK universities, as well as the possibilities of working with timber. Solving the climate challenge is going to require both. We need people
The Riverside University Design Challenge (#RSUDC21) came
equipped with the knowledge to build low-carbon, and the technology
together through the combined efforts of Sunderland City Council,
and know-how to do so.
Timber Development UK (TTF and TRADA) and MOBIE.
“In this competition the students are demonstrating that both the talent and technology already exists. We can build net zero now with
All entries to the competition are viewable on the CTI website at
timber, and we can build better, as these designs have shown. A huge
https://bit.ly/3yg89F1
Dakari Brathwaite- Team M Project Manager “The competition introduced participants
Lastly, the interdisciplinary group
series of webinars spanned a plethora
to real-world, real time issues affecting the
of architectural, landscaping, quantity
dynamic highlighted how individual
historic city in Riverside Sunderland. Allowing
surveying topics (far) outside the scope of my
contributions are not isolated entities, as
participants, the challenge (and privilege)
study.“The interdisciplinary nature allowed
they are required to relate and compliment
to create practical solutions extended far
individuals to express their passions, ideas and
the other technical interests. I trust
beyond theoretical knowledge, brought
subconsciously their personality. The iterative
that through this experience, we all will
a sense of awareness and obligation in
nature of everyone’s input whilst harmoniously
form longer, meaningful, and productive
contributing to the council’s long-term
attempting to achieve the desired output
partnerships as we strive to have a positive
plans for the resuscitation of Riverside
made me appreciate the value of teamwork
impact on the world we live through our
Sunderland. Additionally, the expertly led
and proactive decision-making skills.
varied lenses.”
Timber Construction Magazine
Autumn 2021
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FEATURE COVER STORY SKILLS VASTERN & EDUCATION TIMBER
Growing Local Timber Supply Chains Tom Barnes, managing director of Vastern Timber explains why choosing local alternatives to imports, and nurturing shorter supply chains will help to meet the high demand for timber.
T
he perfect storm of Covid, Brexit, and climate change
Brimstone Ash delivers the look and performance of tropical
have really focused attention on the resilience and impact
timber
of global supply chains. Anyone trying to buy timber for
Available as decking or cladding, Brimstone ash is a British-grown
their building project will have experienced shortages,
alternative to tropical hardwoods. I challenge anyone considering
long lead-times and dramatic price increases. As a
using Ipe, Yellow Balau, Garapa or any of the other tropical hardwoods,
processor of homegrown timber, we at Vastern Timber have experienced
to look at Brimstone Ash as an alternative. It delivers a similar
unprecedented demand over the last 18 months as imports have dried up.
performance, without the need to import tropical wood. Brimstone is
Vastern Timber is a family firm based in Wiltshire, and over four
a really exciting product. It’s the first thermally-modified timber to be
generations we have worked with locally sourced wood. Demand is
made from local home-grown wood. The modification process creates
higher than any of us can remember, and supplies are squeezed. Timber
very durable and stable timber suitable for external cladding, decking
supply pressures are likely to ease next year, but the long term forecast
and joinery. Developed by Vastern Timber and launched in 2016,
is that shortages could become the norm as global demand for timber
Brimstone has become a popular alternative to tropical timber and
outstrips available supply. Worryingly, it is predicted that global demand
other slow grown species such as Canadian cedar.
for timber will triple by 2050. The increase in demand for timber is partly driven by a growing
British cedar is a keenly priced alternative to Canadian cedar Cedar is a beautiful timber for exterior cladding. With Canadian
recognition of the real risks of climate change leading to a surge of interest in biomaterials, and low carbon construction. I’ve spoken to building firms
Cedar being expensive and scarce, the interest in British cedar has
and building owners who are looking at every single aspect of construction
grown. Over the last few years demand for British Cedar has grown
supply chains, to understand the impact of specifying and sourcing materials. In many cases they’re surprised at how far some of our most commonly used building materials have travelled. The carbon costs of that transportation can be substantial. It’s well known that we import 80% of the timber we use and it is now well understood that shipping materials around the world is one of the biggest sources of the green-house gases that are responsible for climate change. What’s not so widely understood is how unsustainable this situation will become in future. The good news is that the timber grown in Britain can perform as well as many of the popular imports. We just need to invest in both forestry and manufacturing to meet future demands. Right now there is locally grown timber available that is affordable and suitable for many projects. Here are Vastern Timber Sawmill
a few suggestions.
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Autumn 2021
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COVER STORY VASTERN TIMBER
Brimstone Poplar cladding at the Wood Centre for Innovation
Brimstone Ash decking
Lock House extension with British larch cladding
Tom Barnes
Green British Cedar
substantially, and lately we’ve sold more homegrown than imported
that we use in the UK. We will never be able to supply all of our needs
cedar. The stability and natural durability of British western red cedar
from British woodlands but we could do a lot better than 7%. If you are
makes it ideal for external cladding applications. The British grown
planning to use hardwoods for your build, take the time to ask where it
cedar is more knotty than Canadian Cedar, but the knots are sound and
is from and whether there is a homegrown alternative.
do not detract from its effectiveness. British cedar cladding is a good value alternative to Canadian cedar, and choosing it avoids the carbon
Why choose local timber
costs of shipping timber to the UK.
We think that using locally grown timber is just plain common sense. Why import something from halfway around the world when it
Brimstone poplar cladding has the crisp appearance of
can be sourced from just down the road? There are however pressing
Canadian cedar
scientific and economic reasons for sourcing local timber.
Brimstone poplar is a great choice for cladding when customers seek a crisp and knot-free appearance. Brimstone poplar is selected to minimise
•
knots and thermal modification transforms the timber into a very durable and stable cladding. Brimstone poplar was chosen for the Wood Centre
approximately 2.5% of all global C02 emissions) •
for Innovation in Oxfordshire, creating dramatic architecture with locally grown wood. Brimstone also comes with the knowledge that you are
Local supply chains are more resilient. Covid and Brexit have demonstrated how fragile our supply chains are
•
supporting the development and management of local woodlands by using a less sought-after but abundant timber species.
Less transport means less pollution. (shipping accounts for
Without investment now, we will not have the trees or the ability to process them in the future. Trees take at least 40 years to grow
•
Buying local wood puts money directly into the management and planting of local woodlands. Growing trees costs money!
British larch is great value compared to Siberian larch (and more attractive)
With strong demand for local timber, we can nurture local supply chains,
British larch is a tough and naturally durable softwood, and it’s an
making more use of timber we have closer to home. There are lots of good
economical option as well as a locally grown choice. Our latest batch of
reasons to use the timber we have around us before importing from further
logs come from a woodland 38 miles from our sawmill. A bit closer than
afield. Recent events demonstrate that supply chains can be fragile. If we
Siberia! Grade B larch is undeniably knotty, but from as little as £15sq m
don’t nurture local timber supply chains how can we expect to rely on them
+VAT larch offers an affordable cladding option that will last. Grade A
in the future? Ensuring a reliable timber supply for the future that will allow
British larch offers a less knotty alternative for those wanting a cleaner
us to create low carbon buildings requires a national timber strategy that
style of cladding. ‘Grade B’ British larch cladding was chosen at the
urgently starts the work to lay down timber trees for the future.
Semington Lock House on the Kennet and Avon canal. The client said
Personally, I’m quite optimistic about the future for British wood,
“We wanted to source locally where possible. We chose larch because
despite the very significant problems ahead. I know that this country
its native, it’s local and it doesn’t require maintenance.”
has the potential to produce much more of the timber we consume but it starts with each individual purchase and a simple question ‘Where is
Oak, ash and sweet chestnut all grow in this country
this wood from?’
The UK imports large volumes of oak, ash and other hardwoods More at www.vastern.co.uk
from around the world. In fact we import 93% of all the hardwoods
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FEATURE THERMAL EFFICIENCY
Fast & Flexible Living
Beattie Passive, a leading provider of Passivhaus homes in the UK, are preparing to revolutionise housebuilding with their new range of modular, zero carbon homes.
T
he first company in the UK to
standard. Whereas traditional construction
construction in the Beattie Passive modular
combine offsite construction
methods involve numerous joints between floors,
factory, the apartments are being transported
methods with a Passivhaus
walls and roofs (each joint experiencing inevitable
to and finished on site, and once the apartment
Institute certified complete build
heat and air loss), the Beattie Passive build system
blocks are assembled, solar panels will be
system, are set to deliver a new
incorporates a continuous insulation system
fitted. This means the development upon
range of homes from cosy one-bedroom pocket
within a treated timber frame structure delivering
completion will be net zero carbon and will
homes to sprawling three-storey apartment
a complete build system from foundation beams,
achieve Passivhaus Plus certification.
blocks, Beattie Passive stands ready to deliver
ground floor, walls and ceiling.
the highest quality, Passivhaus standard homes
Cabinet Member for Housing and
Once in place, high performance
Communities, Councillor Lynda Thorne, said:
at a scale and pace never seen before in the
insulation material is injected into the cavities,
“The Council is extremely pleased to be working
industry.
creating one continuous insulated layer all
with Beattie Passive to provide innovative and
around the property, with no joints and no
sustainable solutions to help tackle housing
construction to a whole new level. Developing
leaks. As standard the Beattie Passive system
need in the city. We’ve made excellent progress
on their signature Haus4one, a fully modular,
provides the following benefits:
in supporting people who’ve been homeless
Beattie Passive are taking timber
Passivhaus standard one-person home built to
over the last few months and our vision for
turnkey, Beattie Passive have pioneered a whole
•
Thermal bridge free ≤0.01 W/(mK)
services for the future is now taking shape very
new range of high quality, energy efficient
•
High thermal efficiency (U-Values)
quickly. Beattie Passive’s modular solutions
modular homes of various designs, including
•
Walls - ≤0.11 W/(m²K)
provide a fast and effective response for our
one-, two- and three-bedroom homes and
•
Roof ≤0.11 W/(m²K)
plans. The flexibility of this fully demountable
apartments. Designed for councils, housing
•
Ground Floor ≤0.12 W/(m²K)
system means they can be moved elsewhere in
associations and developers, the new modular
•
Airtightness below 1m³/hm²(@50pa)
the future if required, enabling us to respond to
range offers a large variety of products and styles
•
Triple glazed Passivhaus windows.
changing housing need over time.”
This greatly increases the energy efficiency of
Passive, added: “We are very excited to be
that can be delivered quickly and can fit with the client’s needs and aesthetic requirements,
Ron Beattie, Managing Director of Beattie
whilst delivering the highest quality of housing.
Beattie Passive homes and means that their homes
launching our new range of modular housing.
With the homes able to be built quickly in their
reach Passivhaus standards every time. With the
These are the first fully modular homes that
modular factory, Beattie Passive are currently the
easy addition of renewable energy sources such
are able to achieve net zero carbon and reach
only company in the UK able to deliver net zero,
as solar panels and air source heat pumps, these
Passivhaus certification on the market and have all
Passivhaus standard homes at a scale and pace
homes can effortlessly reach net zero carbon and
the same benefits as every other Beattie Passive
never seen before in the industry.
achieve official Passivhaus certification.
build. These can be built and delivered much
As with every other home built by Beattie
One of Beattie Passive’s current
quicker than a traditional build for a comparable
Passive, the new modular homes are built using
developments is their biggest project to date, a
price, and we believe this offers a real opportunity
the innovative Beattie Passive build system, a
modular development of 48 homes comprising
to revolutionise housebuilding in the UK.”
fabric-first approach to building that is designed
a variety of one-, two- and three-bedroom
from the ground up to deliver Passivhaus as
apartments for Cardiff Council. Currently under
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Autumn 2021
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ADVERTORIAL JAMES LATHAM
Panel Decision The use of flame retardant panels in construction is far from a new idea, but the innovation in manufacture and performance in panels has been significant, if little understood. In fact, some very traditional FR panels have found themselves the perfect solution for a very modern problem! Stuart Devoil, Group Head of Marketing at James Latham brings some of that innovation to light.
J
ames Latham was founded in 1757, when it first imported hardwoods into Liverpool, but much like construction panels,
the company has progressively moved forward to remain at the cutting edge of panel materials technology. In fact, Lathams has always been ahead of the panels game, being the first UK importer to set up a panels business in the early 1900’s, being the first stockist to take delivery of MEDITE MDF in the UK, and being the first importer to stock TRP plywood from Weyerhauser. It’s safe to say that with a history like this, and the experience learned from these firsts, Lathams leads the
version is perfect for commercial fit outs, retail and hospitality environments,
way when it comes to panels.
exhibitions, museums, and even schools.
Starting with something a little familiar, Irish OSB manufacturer
And while we’re talking education, one product in particular has
SMARTPLY has introduced a new structural product which offers outstanding
undergone a very interesting evolution in recent months. Sundeala must be
fire performance in the form of SMARTPLY MAX FR B. What makes this
one of the most recognised names in fibre panels. First manufactured back
product unique is the manufacturing process. Individual flakes (or strands)
in 1898, it’s used for noticeboards, pinboards and signage the world over. It’s
of wood are treated with a water-based FR solution before the panel is
100% recycled, 100% recyclable, and comes in a wide range of colours. But
manufactured, meaning the fire protection is maintained all the way through
the really interesting thing is about its FR performance. Or more precisely,
the panel allowing it to be cut or machined without losing any of the fire
the performance of its FR version. Because firstly, Sundeala FR is the only UK
performance. The boards are then produced using ContiRoll® technology,
manufactured Euroclass B pin board to meet building regulations for use in
meaning panels of practically any length are achievable. Much like rolling out
circulation areas and protected fire escape routes as laid out in Approved
pastry, the OSB panel goes under rollers on a continuous conveyor, allowing
Document B2 and the BB100. Moreover, in ISO 17025 compliant laboratory
the panels to be cut only when the desired panel length is achieved. Panels
tests, it was found to be highly resistant to coronavirus and was 100% virus
up to 2.8 x 7.5m are achievable, making them ideal for Modern Methods of
free just five minutes after infection. This means Sundeala now has a new lease
Construction. A structural, moisture resistant, flame retardant Euroclass B
of life as the perfect product to help in the fight against a global pandemic.
panel, up to 7.5m long! What more could the sector ask for?
From touch plates to social distancing screens, walkway partitions, screening
Well maybe something that offers fire protection, but good looks too?
and protective wall cladding, the applications are pretty much endless.
Valchromat is a High Density Fibreboard (HDF) that acts like a moisture
So there we are, a trip through the world of panels which, possibly, has
resistant MDF. Available in eleven colours, the boards are ‘through coloured’,
breathed a little life back into a subject that many may see as ‘commodity’.
with the dye continuing right through the panel. This means you can take
Like Lathams, the panel industry doesn’t stand still and has adapted very well
advantage of all those machining benefits a high-density product brings:
to market demands. Products listed here are available throughout Lathams’
crisp edges, clean CNC cuts, dense core and uniform surface, but without
network of 12 depots in the UK & Ireland.
exposing a different coloured centre. Perfect for projects where you need that little extra design flair, but still require high performance and dependability.
For more information, please visit or email
Whilst the standard Valchromat is suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, furniture
www.lathamtimber.co.uk/products/panels
and many other interior applications, the Euroclass B-s2,d0 Flame Retardant
info@lathams.co.uk
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FEATURE THERMAL EFFICIENCY
Woodfibre and Healthy Homes
Image © Mac Eye Projects and Mac Eye Photography
‘The Paddock’ is a super example of how you can reinvent the classic country cottage as a thermally efficient, timber frame, Passivhaus standard home.
N
estling in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds is a self-
continuous layer of 100mm Pavatex Isolair from Soprema’s woodfibre
build project which proves that bespoke homes don’t
insulation range could be used to provide a thermal bridge-free external
need to be extravagant to be exceptional. Constructed
envelope across the walls and roof. The specification combined the
to Passivhaus standards to deliver both sustainability
Pavatex Isolair for the walls and roof with a roof build-up that includes
and low running costs, The Paddock makes use of woodfibre
sheep’s wool insulation and pro-passive OSB board.
insulation from Soprema’s Pavatex range. The result is a modest
A vapour permeable and water resistant dry processed woodfibre
two-bedroom cottage that has achieved outstanding thermal
board for use in wall and roof build-ups, Soprema’s Pavatex Isolair
performance with the use of a natural, renewable material that’s in
system has tongue and groove edges to enable sections of insulation
tune with the ethos of the project and its location.
to be fitted neatly and precisely together, creating a smooth and
Located near Shipston-on-Stour, The Paddock is a two-bedroom,
continuous surface.
two-bathroom timber frame property with a double height open plan living area. While not certified as Passivhaus, as this involves additional costs for certification, the 1.5 storey bungalow has exceeded the airtightness and thermal performance requirements of the standard, while complementing its natural surroundings. Designed and constructed by Passivhaus and sustainable building specialist, Mac Eye Projects, The Paddock has been built for a private client on land owned by her family. The brief was to use natural materials wherever possible and minimise the environmental impact of the build, while creating a comfortable home requiring minimal heating or cooling. Preventing thermal bridging Mac Eye Projects has worked with Soprema’s Pavatex products on many previous projects, including Larch Corner, which won the prestigious Passivhaus Trust Award. Thanks to this experience of the
Image © Mac Eye Projects and Mac Eye Photography
system, Andy MacKay, consultant at Mac Eye Projects, knew that a
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CLEAN&LEAN AND WORKS LIKE A DREAM
What makes Hybris unlike any other insulation? It’s cleaner, with less waste and environmental impact. It’s leaner, with a unique honeycomb structure, saving space and project costs. And its thermal performance? Leaves others in the dust. Used on its own, or with the rest of the Hybrid range, Hybris is the future of insulation.
It’s time to make the change. To find out more visit insulation-actis.com or call 01249 462888
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FEATURE THERMAL EFFICIENCY
The timber frame cottage was constructed with a 160mm stud wall
Ambient solution
and an engineered timber roof, where glulam beams provide additional
The thermal performance benefits of wrapping the property in a
structural stability. A 12.5mm layer of PROPASSIVE OSB board has been
layer of 100mm Pavatex Isolair not only include keeping The Paddock
fixed to the interior face of the stud walls and this has been plastered
warm in winter and reducing the amount of heat energy needed but
and painted to create the interior walls, providing both airtightness and
also managing heat gain in the summer. “Because woodfibre insulation
additional structural integrity. The sheep’s wool insulation has been
is a natural, breathable material it helps the property to maintain a
packed within the stud wall to provide an additional layer of insulation
comfortable, ambient temperature all year round,” says Andy. “While
and Soprema’s Pavatex Isolair has then been fixed to the exterior of the
also delivering the aims of creating a property with environmentally
stud wall to completely encapsulate the building envelope with high
responsible materials.”
performance woodfibre insulation.
While The Paddock has not been certified as Passivhaus, it has
Andy MacKay explains: “The tongue and groove connections
exceeded the strict standard’s exacting requirements for airtightness. It
provided by Pavatex Isolair enabled us to achieve an uninterrupted
is ATTMA-certified with exceptionally low air permeability of 0.18 m3h/
thermal wrap for the external wall surface, onto which the render could
m2 @50Pa, thanks to the combination of materials used in the wall and
be directly applied. The most vulnerable areas for air leakage and thermal
roof build-up and the continuous layer of Pavatex Isolair forming the
bridging are always the junctions between building elements. We had to
building envelope.
be particularly mindful to maintain thermal performance when designing More at www.soprema.co.uk
the interface between the window apertures and the Pavatex Isolair.” Integrity of the interface Hardwood, triple-glazed window units were specified for the project and the Mac Eye Projects team was able to create a 40mm lap of woodfibre insulation over the interface with the glazed units around the perimeter of each window aperture. Each triple-glazed unit was then installed from inside the building. In this way, the critical junctions at each window were designed to be thermal bridge-free. “The Pavatex Isolair has been used to completely encapsulate the cottage but comfort is just as important as thermal performance and running costs,” adds Andy. “That includes connecting the indoors with the surrounding countryside with careful window placement. Soprema’s technical team worked with us to support the design of the interface between the Pavatex Isolair and other building elements to ensure we
Image © Mac Eye Projects and Mac Eye Photography
leverage the full thermal performance benefits of the system.”
Actis Hybrid Plays Starring Role in Remarkable Renovations Actis Hybrid insulation made an appearance on national TV as part of a stunning coach house conversion in George Clarke’s latest Channel 4 series – Remarkable Renovations. The project saw the builders create a timber frame within the original shell of the building, both for structural reasons and to allow the installation of 75mm honeycomb insulation Actis Hybris and insulating vapour control layer H Control Hybrid. They removed the original roof, installed new roof timbers, and insulated it with 75mm Actis Hybris, H Control Hybrid and Boost R Hybrid, with numerous shots throughout the broadcast clearly showing the insulation. Adrian and Laura preserved the original roof trusses for aesthetic reasons, although they no longer support the slate roof. The couple also demolished a barn which abutted the building, neatly storing all the original materials, and rebuilt a new structure using insulated concrete form blocks. They then faced it with the
and easy to install. I didn’t need to wear a mask as there was no
70,000 original bricks they had salvaged form the demolition. The
dust, and it was easy to cut and fit. Also, we didn’t have to have such
roof was insulated in the same way as the coach house, achieving an
big roof rafters. With rigid board we would have needed 225mm
identical U-value.
rafters, but with Actis we only needed 150mm. Plus it worked out a
Adrian explained: “I chose Actis rather than any other form of
lot cheaper than the alternatives.”
insulation for a number of reasons. One is the U-value, which is
excellent. We’ve achieved 0.16 in the roof and 0.19 in the walls. As
The programme was broadcast on 28 July 2021 and can be
I was doing much of the work myself, I wanted it to be quick, clean,
watched on Channel 4 at: https://bit.ly/3xONjMx
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Let's talk about the wood house effect Cities are growing, and so are trees. With wood as a construction material, we can bring the forest to the city by building higher, lighter and stronger than ever before. By 2060, global housing needs to double, and emissions need to go down. When using wood as a renewable material that keeps growing back,a truly sustainable future of building is possible. And it all started with a seedling in one of our certified forests. We call this the wood house effect. storaenso.com/WoodHouseEffect
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FEATURE FIRE PROTECTION Clifton Hill House, University of Bristol
Give it the Right Fire Treatment Intumescent paints are an important element of passive fire protection and can be applied to a variety of combustible building materials in order to bring them into compliance with fire regulations.
I
ntumescent paint reacts when
elements include frames, staircases, floors,
or 60 minute fire protection and insulation
its temperature attains or
ceilings, cladding, and doors made of wood
according to BS476 Part22. Up to 60 minutes
exceeds 120°C, and the process
or wood derivative. Intumescent paint can
fire protection achieved on open joists and
results in a soft charring effect
be applied directly onto the surface of
floorboards according to BS476 Part 20.
at its surface (which insulates
timber structures, either by brush, roller, or
90-minute fire rating achieved on timber
and reduces transmission of heat into the
spray. There are several varieties of clear
mouldings and carcasses according to BS476
substrate) and the release of water vapour
intumescent paint that can be used on wood
Part 20. Tested on a range of timber types,
(which helps to cool the substrate).
in order to preserve their appearance. One
including plywood and MDF, complying with
example of intumescent paint is the patented
BS476 Parts 6 & 7, Classes 0 & 1 (Spread of
HW coating system from Envirograf.
Flame). Tested to European Standard EN1364-
When timber and wood surfaces are exposed to flames, the intumescent expands
1, achieving 66 minutes integrity. Complies
to create a fireproof layer on the substrate. A range of timber substrates can be coated with intumescent paint in order to comply with fire regulation standards. These building
Timber Construction Magazine
Fire Test Performance
with Classification B/S1/d0 of European
Tested on a wide range of wooden doors, achieving 60 minutes integrity and either 30 Autumn 2021
26
Standard EN13823, single burn test (SBI) and EN11925-2 (ignitability).
www.timbermedia.co.uk
@Timber_Media
FEATURE FIRE PROTECTION
Westminster Choir School, London In the shadow of the great abbey is Westminster Choir School, dating back to 1170. The school is renowned for its choral excellence, and it has followed centuries of traditional values in education. The present boarding school in Dean’s Yard dates back to 1915 and it currently houses 38 people (choristers and staff). The school recently underwent an extensive internal refurbishment programme. In order to provide fire protection and retain the original character and elegance of the woodwork, Fire Prevention Products (London) Ltd were consulted. As most of the wood is very old and possibly contains layers of polish, FPP recommended the use of Envirograf® Product 42 HWAP adhesion primer to provide a solid foundation to the surface. The contractors needed an acceptable level of fire protection to Class 0 and Class 1 spread of flame, so the Envirograf® Product 92 ES/VFR coating system
City of London Freemen’s School
was used. This was subsequently coated over with the strong and resilient protective top coat Envirograf® Product 42 HW05, which will give the surfaces many years of tough protection.
City of London Freemen’s School
Clifton Hill House, University of Bristol
Freemen’s School, Surrey required upgrading to fire rated standard to
Unprotected doors installed within the 18th Century building of To keep the appearances and to be able to use upper floors at
comply with Building Regulations. Doors designed with historic fabrics
University of Bristol, the open joists and floor boards were again
could not be replaced and therefore it was recommended to upgrade
coated with 3 coats of HW02/E at 8sq m per litre per coat and brown
the surface using intumescent paint. An application of Clear HW02
AM mastic between joints which had shrunk over the years, giving 60
coating was applied to the mahogany doors situated in the hallway
minutes integrity, insulation and load bearing. Envirograf were also
area to protect the risk side of the door, and also preserve the original
asked to upgrade the doors and to treat the window frames and used
fabrics. White fire escape doors were also coated in White HW02
HW02 to fire protect these substrates. This allowed Clifton Hill House
coatings, including the architraves to protect the fire escape route.
to achieve 60 minutes integrity, meaning that in the event of a fire the More at www.envirograf.com
building will maintain its integrity and the fire will not easily spread.
Assured protection for your building projects
TREATED TIMBER Vacsol™ 6118 is a water-based low pressure wood preservative 4 Is metal free and VOC free 4 Suitable for Use Class 1, 2 and 3 (coated) joinery and construction timbers 4 BPR (Biocidal Products Regulation) Authorised
FIND OUT w: trustvacsol.com e: timberprotectionadvice.ukca@lonza.com MORE VACSOL™ Aqua 6118 is a BPR Authorised product. Use wood preservatives safely. Always read the label and product information before use.
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2021
5-7 OCTOBER 2021 NEC BIRMINGHAM
Back with a Buzz
Timber Expo is back again as a live event at the NEC this October, retaking its place as the UK’s only dedicated timber trade show and one of the key highlights of the awardwinning UK Construction Week (UKCW).
I
t’s a welcome sight. After 18 months of being cooped up at home, unable to benefit from the serendipities of networking, making new contacts or discovering new products without having to spend hours trawling
online, the return of trade shows is being greeted with open arms by many in the timber industry. The rate of registrations for the first major construction event in two years has already got off to a record-breaking start, running at 22% higher than for the same period in 2019. Those who pivoted towards digital-first last March were the first off the starting blocks during lockdown. Now it’s the other way around – those who are prioritising face-to-face communication are gearing up to reap the benefits of a post-Covid business bounce. Two years’ worth of products, solutions and innovations There’s a lot to catch up on. Timber Expo was last held in 2019
Timber Expo is free to attend, with delegates able to share and update their technical knowledge and debate topical matters around
and since then there have been significant advances in key legislative
all the latest ideas and developments from across the timber sector.
areas around fire and life safety, net zero and post-Brexit trading, not
There will be many opportunities to network with both new and familiar
to mention huge strides forward in digitalisation and two years’ worth
faces and learn about the trends that are currently affecting the market,
of exciting new products and services for the sector. In recognition of
making UKCW one of the most important dates for the rest of this year.
the quality of its events, UKCW has won two major awards in the last year, scooping the Best Trade Show award from Exhibition News and
What’s on? Timber Expo is a dedicated area in the UKCW event which runs from
the Best UK Tradeshow award by the Association of Event Organisers. It is testament to the innovations, positive delegate experience and
5-7 October at the NEC in Birmingham. UKCW 2021 is expected to attract
sustainable procedures around events like Timber Expo. This year it will
more than 20,000 specifiers and buyers with at least 300 exhibitors
all be put into practice once again.
providing launches, demos and offers on more than 6,000 products.
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The UK’s largest timber showcase FEATURING PAVILIONS FROM: Russia - Czech Republic - Germany
in partnership with
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST www.timber-expo.co.uk
CO-LOCATED WITH
#timberexpo
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ADVERTORIAL ADKALIS
Wood Treatment and Protection: Adkalis, at the forefront of regulations
A
Adkalis, a subsidiary of Groupe Berkem, is one of the major players in the protection and treatment of materials. The commitments and missions of its R&D and Regulatory Department teams are numerous: to
guarantee the compliance of Adkalis products with current biocidal products regulations, to thoroughly follow a constantly changing regulatory context, and to ensure dossier filing and follow-up with administrative authorities. But also to meet user requirements and to anticipate future regulatory changes in order to design future products. The company operates as a partner in the primary and secondary wood processing market and is keen to share its knowledge and to make progress on regulations. Strong restrictions to guarantee safety and quality For the past fifteen years, regulations on the use of chemicals in the European Union have been tightened for all market players, including Adkalis. The aim is to ensure the safe use of substances as such, contained in ‘mixtures’ (preparations), or in ‘articles’ (finished products). The regulation of products formulated with biocidal active substances, governed by the ‘Biocidal Products Regulation’ since 2012, illustrates the European Commission’s desire to see the marketing authorisation system for these substances finally harmonised. It also aims to put an end to local discrepancies, as far as possible. The benefits include better control of the risks and hazards associated with the production and use of chemicals, and improved protection for citizens, users and the environment. In order to put all the links in the activity chain, from the producer to the customer, on the same level of information, it is necessary to fully involve the chemical industry, such as Adkalis, which is in charge of managing chemical substances and providing information for their users. Adkalis’ R&D and Regulatory teams get involved With 75 products authorised in 21 member states, and as many
“Our desire is to always combine compliance with regulatory restrictions, preservation of quality and commitment to the environment. Groupe Berkem’s regulatory department guarantees the compliance of our products vis-à-vis European regulations. It is also our best asset to anticipate future restrictions and to think about future products.”
dossiers under examination, Adkalis effectively demonstrates its expertise in regulatory matters. It has an in-house Regulatory Department
Laurent CUBIZOLLES, Product Regulatory Compliance Manager, Adkalis – Groupe Berkem
which consists of 3 people based in France and Belgium, close to the European decision makers. Its mission: to facilitate the control of the
European Committee for Standardisation (CENTC 38), and is aware
regulatory pathways of its product references, to prepare and submit
of the environmental and societal issues at stake. Adkalis’ Regulatory
the authorisation dossier related to their marketing in various countries
Department has three main areas of work: complying with the required
worldwide.
restrictions, anticipating future ones and actively participating in
Adkalis, via its R&D department, has undertaken in-depth work in favour of environmentally-friendly alternatives and a more rigorous
national and European standardisation through the participation of its experts in French and European working groups.
selection of active substances and supply chains. With the same purpose: to offer high-quality, high-performance and compliant
See Adkalis at Timber Expo stand no: T125
products, with controlled dosage. The company is a stakeholder in the
More at www.adkalis.com/en/
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AXIL 3000 P+
ADOPT WOOD TREATMENT TO ENSURE YOUR CONSTRUCTIONAL TIMBER LONGEVITY
Preserve wood natural state Bio-Based wood preservative solution Up to class 3.2 autoclave treatment BPR Approval Wide range colours available
See us at Stand T125
Use biocides safely. Always read the labels and product information before use.
adkalis.com Timber Construction Magazine
adkalis is a subsidiary of Groupe Autumn 2021 Berkem31
+33 (0)5 64 31 06 95 adkalis-export@berkem.com @Timber_Media www.timbermedia.co.uk
FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2021
Burger & Cie GRAD system
5-7 OCTOBER 2021 NEC BIRMINGHAM
Baumann Sideloaders
Among the major UK brands at the show, PRO-TEK Flooring will
Products being put on show at Timber Expo will be relevant to a breadth of timber applications, including timber frame construction, sawmills,
also be introducing new products for the first time, with 28 new styles,
merchants, glulam, SIPs, CLT, fixings and fastenings, timber cladding,
including 12 herringbone patterns expanding its ever-growing range of
doors and windows, mouldings, skirtings and flooring.
designs. There will also be a state-of-the-art virtual showroom unveiling
Reflecting the interest in the booming UK market following Brexit,
from Hanson Plywood, the perfect platform for architects, designers
exhibitors at this year’s Timber Expo are not just from the UK but from
and specifiers to view all Hanson’s plywood products along with their
an increasingly diverse international market. These include Adkalis (a
accompanying technical data.
subsidiary of Groupe Berkem in France), one of the major players in the protection, treatment and decoration of wood materials, which is using
Spoilt for choice In addition to Timber Expo, there is much to see at this years’ event.
Timber Expo to promote its 100% organic microemulsion guaranteed to preserve wood’s natural state and longevity through bio-based materials. Burger & Cie, another French business, has an exclusive fastening
Each day has a topical theme, with day one focusing on sustainability, day two on diversity, equality and inclusion in construction, and day three
system on show, for use with timber decking and other timber
dedicated to major updates on quality, social value and building safety.
products. Its GRAD system has no screws, is invisible, reliable, and
UKCW’s long-established half-day summits on Quality and Wellbeing will
removable for the interior and exterior of buildings, revolutionising
also be scheduled during the show (you can add a ticket to these summits
how we fasten materials.
at the same time as registering for Timber Expo), along with the BMF’s
Baumann Sideloaders is coming over from Italy to promote its vehicles and machinery, including unveiling its newest 120v electric
Young Merchants Conference. Grand Designs Live is also running next to UKCW from 6-10 October and is free to attend from 6-7 October. Don’t miss the insightful line-up on the UKCW main stage, with
model, the ELX Plus – the first of its kind seen in the UK, perfect for handling timber or roof trusses, and with zero emissions. The ELX is
keynote talks and panel discussions from industry experts, commentators
the most compact machine of its type ever produced and features a
and disruptors. This years’ main stage, sponsored by COINS, will see
completely new chassis, battery and power train configuration. DHS
presentations by senior leaders from, among others, McKinsey, the
International from the Netherlands will be promoting its popular
Construction Products Association, CIOB, Willmott Dixon, Barratt Homes,
European Oak and Siberian Larch hardwood beams and boards, pine and
Bioregional, Grimshaw, the Sustainable Energy Association and the
spruce timber, and finished product wooden panels.
Construction Leadership Council. The COINS ‘Future of Construction’ series of seminars will be looking at how the last 18 months have changed the way we build and how that catalyst for change can now be used in a positive way. These sessions will cover updates in technology, procurement, sustainability, wellbeing and more. The pandemic saw a real rise in demand for digital transformation and the adoption of new technology. The Digital Construction Hub, sponsored by Procore, will feature more than 30 presentations and over 10 hours of learning. There will be a large Sustainability Hub, supported by the Renewable Energy Association, plus the Regeneration Hub, sponsored by Easy-trim, which will focus on social value and quality issues in construction.
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See us at Stand T400 Timber Expo 2021
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FEATURE TIMBER EXPO 2021
5-7 OCTOBER 2021 NEC BIRMINGHAM
Working with the Offsite Alliance, the Modern Methods of
Barry Goodwin, carpentry and joinery lecturer at Wigan-Leigh College,
Construction Hub will deliver three days of MMC and offsite construction
are both shortlisted, recognising their contribution to helping to educate
case studies. The Innovation Zone will also return and will be a huge draw
future generations on the importance and benefits of wood use. All will
for many, showcasing a collection of the most interesting and inventive
go forward to the final of awards scheme, with the winner announced at
products that have allowed construction projects to thrive and keep
3pm on 6 October on the UKCW main stage.
going through numerous lockdowns.
The UKCW Role Models awards scheme provides both personal and wider community benefit, including creating a public platform to
Celebrate
professionals of any age and background. And finally, at the end of a jam-
It’s not just about the products – Timber Expo is first and foremost about meeting, celebrating and being inspired by great people. With
packed day, attendees are invited to unwind, share experiences and chat over the day’s events at UKCW’s popular beer festival.
skills shortages and talent retention issues faced by many across the construction industry, a highly motivated group of experts are taking the
Free registration to UK Construction Week is now open:
lead to inspire the next generation, as part of the UKCW Role Model of
ukconstructionweek-2021-visitor.reg.buzz/pr
the Year awards. One entry badge gives access to multiple sections: Build, Modern
A total of 102 people from across all sectors of construction have been shortlisted as role models for the industry, with several
Methods of Construction, Building Tech, Timber, Civils, Energy and
representing the timber and wood industry. These include Barbara Jones,
HVAC, and Surface and Materials, as well as Grand Designs Live,
director at Strawworks, a world leader in climate change mitigation, that
which runs from 6-10 October and is free to attend on 6-7 October.
designs cement-free foundations as standard and promotes materials that store carbon for construction (straw and timber in particular), and
To get regular updates on the event, including safety protocols
Carl Benfield, the timber business development manager at Benfield ATT.
and new features, follow UKCW on social media using the hashtag
Andy Locker, lecturer of wood machining at Stoke-on-Trent College and
#UKCW2021. More at www.ukconstructionweek.com
Andrew Carpenter, CEO at the Structural Timber Association (STA), a returning partner at this year’s event: “UKCW is the perfect place to meet with
programme 2021-2026. The most sensible
direction of travel and the STA are particularly
other passionate professionals to learn
approach to this is to deal with both subjects
encouraged having received full RIBA support.
and discuss the most important industry
together, as they are inextricably linked. It
“One particular interesting piece of
issues and come together to create real
goes without saying, that any construction
work being carried out in the industry, is the
change for the future. In my forty-four
has to be wholly safe, but also it should be
Construction Industry Council’s CO2nstruct
years within the UK construction industry,
providing a zero carbon solution.
Zero Champions. Here, companies are being
never have I witnessed two topics that
identified as ‘champions’ when it comes
are dominating the sector to such effect. I
plethora of organisations to promote the
to their zero carbon credentials. From
refer of course to the global climate crisis
solutions to fire safety in accordance with
my position as a CO2nstruct Zero Board
and the Building Safety Bill.
the Building Safety Bill, as well as the obvious
member, I am suggesting the timber, steel
benefits of structural timber when it comes to
and concrete sectors need to agree a set of
organisations clambering for the use of more
net zero. It was two years ago that the Climate
metrics by which carbon can be measured,
structural timber in construction, and on the
Change Committee recommended the use of
so that clients, designers and contractors
other, people suggesting you shouldn’t use
more timber in construction and this advice
specifying materials, can compare like-for-
combustible materials in the external skin, as
has been promoted far and wide within the
like. This move has the backing of the CLC.
has been experienced in the London Mayor
Time for Timber campaign and in our dealings
We look forward to discussing these major
banning timber frame in his affordable homes
with industry bodies. Many support this
issues at Timber Expo.”
“On the one hand, we have many
“The STA is currently working with a
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SEE US AT STAND T320
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FEATURE HOMEGROWN TIMBER
New Welsh Timber Framer Aims for Local Supply
The United Welsh Group is developing a factory in the heart of Caerphilly to build timber frame, low carbon homes and will be using Welsh wood.
T
he factory, which is due to open this autumn, will manufacture high quality, sustainable timber frame structures complete with factory fitted insulation and windows to build up to 250 low carbon homes
per annum. With over £2 million of investment from Welsh Government’s Innovative Housing Programme, the factory will be delivered by Celtic Offsite, a new social enterprise within the Caerphilly-based United Welsh Group. Using over 28,000sq ft of manufacturing facilities, Celtic Offsite will provide affordable housing for contractors and developers using a Welsh supply chain, including Welsh timber and local partners. There will also be a training suite on-site to provide skills development and apprenticeships for green construction jobs, training the next generation of workers to deliver more energy efficient homes. Richard Mann, deputy chief executive and director of operations for United Welsh Group said: “The Welsh Government Innovative Housing Programme funding has been vital in enabling us to develop the new Celtic Offsite factory in Caerphilly. The factory will create community benefits at every stage of production, designed on the principles of developing the foundational economy and doing better by working
“The Welsh Government Innovative Housing Programme funding has been vital in enabling us to develop the new Celtic Offsite factory in Caerphilly. The factory will create community benefits at every stage of production, designed on the principles of developing the foundational economy and doing better by working together.”
together. “It will support the United Welsh Group, local authorities and other partners to realise our shared ambitions of achieving net zero
Richard Mann, deputy chief executive and director of operations for United Welsh Group
carbon through the provision of new energy
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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.
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FEATURE HOMEGROWN TIMBER
efficient homes, while supporting Welsh business growth and tackling
Wales to contribute to this wood economy, creating new jobs in rural
fuel poverty. The factory opening will also create up to 28 new jobs,
Wales as well as building an innovative supply chain for high value
with investment planned for green construction training opportunities
added, longer life uses.”
for local people year on year. All profits from the enterprise will be
Councillor Eluned Stenner, Caerphilly Council cabinet member
reinvested into our social purpose of providing more affordable homes
for customer, performance and enterprise said: “We’ve had a strong
and community services; including our decarbonisation programme to
partnership with United Welsh for many years and are extremely excited
become carbon neutral by 2035.”
about this news. It’s aims cut across a number of our key priorities as a
The Celtic Offsite factory will be located at Pontygwindy Industrial
council; including lowering carbon emissions, helping us further develop a
Estate near Caerphilly town centre. The project is a positive step in
‘greener Caerphilly’ stimulating our local economy, reducing energy costs
Welsh Government’s commitment to build more high quality homes in
and helping to meet the demand for housing in the county borough.”
factories in Wales.
United Welsh is a not-for-profit organisation providing homes
“This is a very exciting project that we are very proud to have been
and related services in South Wales and look after over 6,000 homes
able to support,” added Julie James, the Welsh Government’s minister
for people across 11 local authority areas. They have a new building
for climate change. “We have already started work on implementing
programme that is worth around £21 million each year and in the next
our manifesto commitment to develop a timber industrial strategy and
five years, intend to build 1,300 more homes. In 2020, United Welsh
create a stronger wood economy for Wales. 80% of the timber used in
ranked in the Top 10 housing associations across the UK for building the
the UK is imported, and only 4% of the 1.5 million tonnes of harvested
most homes for social rent in the last 12 months.
timber is processed to be used as construction-grade timber in Wales. More at www.unitedwelsh.com
There’s a real opportunity for timber processors and manufacturers in
Ayrshire sawmill looks to new local forestry contract
A timber processor in Troon is creating 25 new jobs thanks to
grown and processed here in Scotland is used around the UK to
a new contract awarded to them by Forestry and Land
support key critical sectors like the housing market.”
Scotland (FLS).
The contract also secures the future of two Argyll-based
The contract supports the introduction of a third shift at
forestry contracting firms, AMAC Harvesting Ltd and Gary Anderson
Alexanders Timber Design generating 25 new jobs at the Troon site
Forestry who fell the trees from the FLS site. Gary Anderson
they share with sister business, Glennon Brothers. It also secures
employs a local team from Dunoon, specialising in steep ground
the future of two local forestry contracting firms. The new contract
harvesting, saying: “This new contract appointment is incredibly
grants Glennon Brothers permission to fell diseased larch trees and
important for our business. The appointment safeguards our
spruce on FLS land near Cowal, Argyll and Bute.
future, sustains our income and has made it possible for us all to
The timber is then hauled by local timber haulage companies
continue living and working within our community in Argyll.”
to Sandbank Pier and shipped to the Glennon Brothers sawmill
Mick Bottomley, head of marketing and sales at Forestry and
in Troon, before being processed into a range of fencing and
Land Scotland, added: “We understand the importance of investing
construction products. Stress-graded timber is then processed by
in Scotland’s rural communities. By keeping the timber processing
Alexanders Timber Design, for use in timber frame house kits for
local, we can safeguard local jobs and enhance sustainability. We
the UK’s affordable housing market.
have enjoyed a close working relationship with Glennon Brothers
Alex Murray, forestry manager at Glennon Brothers,
and Alexanders Timber Design for many years, and we look forward
commented: “We are thrilled to be awarded the new FLS contract
to extending our partnership to ensure ‘homegrown’ timber
to fell larch and spruce trees in Cowal, creating new jobs and
supplies are delivered for the UK housing market.”
securing others for local people. The contract is a welcome addition More at: www.forestryandland.gov.scot
to Scotland’s expanding forestry industry, and ensures that timber
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Flooring system choices for all applications from West Fraser
Lignum, by The Joinery Network, is Secured by Design
Choosing the most suitable flooring system for a project makes an enormous difference to the quality of the finished floor; and will cut costs and save problems later. This is why West Fraser’s versatile CaberFloor system offers an advanced range of flooring products designed to fit all applications including new-build, replacement, domestic and commercial. Leading the field in the popularity stakes, CaberFloor P5 is the UK’s most specified moisture-resistant P5 flooring. The high-strength wood particleboard is ideal for domestic and most other floors and removes the need for intermediate noggins. The boards are moistureresistant, stable, durable, easy to lay and, with a tongue and groove or squareedge profile, provide an excellent surface for subsequent floor laying operations.
Lignum, by The Joinery Network, is the UK’s first timber window and door system with the Secured by Design Police Preferred Specification, available exclusively to joiners. The full UKAS test registered and third party checked Lignum system includes flush casement, box sash and spring balance vertical sliding windows, along with French, single, entrance and bifold doors. Secured by Design rigorously tests security, robustness and long lasting use to ensure safe living environments can be achieved.
Some floors require more advanced solutions and, no matter the size or shape of the floor being laid, there are key questions to ask. Although not necessarily obvious, the first point to consider is whether the building’s roof will be in place. If the answer is no, the floor will need to withstand the elements. This is where CaberShieldPlus proves its worth as it is designed to allow building work to continue in all weathers.
Owen Dare, Founder Director of The Joinery Network, says: “The Joinery Network is all about improving both standards and opportunities for UK joiners. Secured by Design status offers joiners an exclusive edge and credibility, and allows them to reach the new build market, where Secured by Design status is required. “Secured by Design ensures all Lignum products are made to the same police preferred standards, which means joiners can select any of our Lignum Manufacturers to manufacture the range.”
CaberShieldPlus is an advanced product that has all the inherent benefits of CaberFloor P5. In addition, it offers double-sided protection with a tough, permanent waterproof coating and is BBA approved for 60 days exposure. It is also a non-slip, safe working platform that withstands high site traffic.
The Joinery Network worked with Lignum Manufacturer JF Joinery to undergo the Secured by Design tests, and JF Joinery are the first of many manufacturers who are set to undergo the stringent audit. The Secured by Design Lignum system has also been tested to PAS 24:2016, Document Q, BS 6375: 1, Document L1B, and Document M certification, offering joiners the most superior range of timber windows and doors.
An alternative solution is CaberDek which is BBA approved for 42 days exposure. The P5 grade flooring has the advantage of a strong, waterproof and slip-resistant peelable film. It provides protection from the elements and construction mess and, when removed, leaves a clean, finished floor. The film is impact, puncture and tear-resistant to withstand high site traffic. CaberDek also provides 44dB sound reduction when used in conjunction with leading I-beam and insulation manufacturers.
The Joinery Network, the co-operative set up to support joinery manufacturers and improve quality in the timber industry through genuine certification, designed and developed the Lignum range to fill the gap in the market for fully certified timber windows and doors. For further information visit www.thejoinerynetwork.co.uk
For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit Uk.westfraser.com
Advertise with Timber Media’s Products & Services
For more information call Terry Hanlon on 01925 270093 or email terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk
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