Timber Trader UK Issue 13 (Summer 2021)

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

LONZA WOOD PROTECTION  20 How designing for the future is driving innovation in timber treatment technologies WEST FRASER HAS ARRIVED  18

UK TIMBER PRODUCTION STEPS UP  22

A new name for Norbord UK but no change to the familiar pioneering product range

Arbor Forest Products tell us more about its advanced sawmill planing line unveiled earlier this year

No time for GROWTH? ECI Spruce can help drive revenue.

Want to find out how, let us show you the solution over breakfast - on us! +44 (0)333 123 0333 | eu-marketing@ecisolutions.com | www.ecisolutions.com/uk How business gets done

TIMBER TRADER UK  ISSUE 13 CONTENTS

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14

16

News........................................................................................02

18

20

The latest news and views from across the industry.

Long Term Market Pressures........................................14 Demand for construction and timber products remains high in the UK and looks set to continue throughout 2021.

Making the Most of Timber Supplies.........................16 To help merchants address some of the current product shortages, the TTF is recommending that buyers and suppliers collaborate closely.

New Face for Key Industry Supplier............................18

22

26

28

32

Norbord is now part of West Fraser, who are they and what does the acquisition bring to the UK market?

Cover Story - Lonza Wood Protection........................20 Andy Hodge from Lonza Wood Protection explores how innovation in timber protection technology, coupled with a deep rooted commitment to quality, is key to protecting the long-term reputation of timber.

A Step Forward for UK Timber Production...............22 Arbor Forest Products launched its new sawmill planing line earlier this year as part of a £12 million investment to enhance its facilities.

Getting to Grips with Post-Brexit Price Hikes........26 Chris Fisher, UK operations director at ECI Software Solutions, explores some of the ways builders’ merchants can alleviate disruption and price hikes.

Choosing the Correct Option..........................................28 Mark Eggleston, managing director, WJ Group explains why ensuring the correct timber treatment is so important to keep the material aesthetically pleasing and long lasting.

Managing Editor: Terry Hanlon

Registered address:

 terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

73 Cross Lane, Newton-Le-Willows,

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01925 270093

Merseyside WA12 9QA

Artwork: Pete Awad

Reducing Safety Concerns...............................................32

 artwork@timbermedia.co.uk

Company registered in England and

The Time for Timber campaign’s new white paper aims to help insurance companies understand the vital role they play in supporting the timber industry.

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

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

James Donaldson & Sons continues growth strategy The Boards of James Donaldson & Sons (JDS) Ltd and Kitchens

International Ltd family to our Donaldson family: we anticipate exciting

International Ltd have announced that, following its acquisition,

times ahead both within the kitchen market and its associated interiors

Kitchens International Ltd, has become the latest addition to the

including bathrooms, bedrooms and home offices. Adding the Kitchens

JDS brand portfolio.

International brand to our current portfolio will yield strong synergistic

Kitchens International Ltd, Scotland’s leading independent kitchen

opportunities for both businesses. As always, the most important thing

retailer, will join the JDS portfolio of leading independent brands

will be people and we are looking forward to working with Kitchens

which includes MGM Timber, Donaldson Timber Engineering, James

International Ltd across both the Board and full team. Together, as one

Donaldson Timber, James Donaldson Insulation, Smith & Frater, Rowan

family, we are well placed to build our kitchen and interiors business

Manufacturing and Nu-Style Products.

for the future.”

Kitchens International Ltd is Scotland’s most award-winning kitchen

Gerry Watson, MD of Kitchens International added: “Over the past

brand, popular amongst both consumers and trade, with six showrooms

27 years we are proud to have grown Kitchens International to become

across Scotland and a strong contract fitting division. It will strategically

a leading UK kitchen brand and are excited that our next growth

and operationally complement the current JDS retail and manufacturing

chapter will be as part of the James Donaldson Group. With shared

portfolio, working closely with the existing kitchen offering through Smith

values and vision, together we can provide greater opportunity for all

& Frater, Optima Kitchen, Perform Panel and MGM Timber, allowing JDS to

our brand community; our staff, our brand ambassadors and

offer a full suite of interior options for both trade and retail customers.

our suppliers.”

Announcing the acquisition, Andrew Donaldson, CEO of James More at  www.jamesdonaldsongroup.co.uk

Donaldson & Sons Ltd, said: “It is a privilege to welcome the Kitchens

International Timber appoints new MD Paul Martin has been appointed to the role of managing director at

managing director at a company I am so personally invested in. I want to

International Timber, part of the Saint-Gobain group and a leading

ensure that we continue delivering outstanding sustainable timber and

wholesaler of specialist timber and panel

panel products, and help our customers navigate

solutions.

the ever-changing and complex timber market.

Paul has held the post of commercial director

I also have the pleasure of working alongside a

at International Timber since May 2019 and has

fantastic team, and I have no doubt that together

overseen the company’s growth while managing

we can achieve our ambitious plans for the future.”

the Brexit transition and the challenges brought

Ross Baxter, managing director of Saint-Gobain

about by Covid-19. Prior to this, he spent 25 years

Off-Site Solutions, which comprises International

with Saint-Gobain PAM, working in the UK and

Timber alongside sister companies Pasquill,

South-Africa, across a variety of roles in sales,

Roofspace Solutions, Intrastack and Scotframe,

operations and general management.

added: “Paul has done an excellent job of steering

He takes the helm as International Timber

the business through a very challenging 2020

seeks to increase its sustainability ahead of

and I am confident that under his leadership,

its 2050 carbon neutral goal, and support

International Timber will go from strength to

manufacturers, architects and builders’ merchants

strength.”

to access quality, bespoke timber materials.

More at  www.internationaltimber.com

Paul said: “I’m delighted to take on the role of Timber Trader UK Magazine

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

TTF warns timber users over supply and demand problems As structural wood buyers will already be more than aware, the supply and demand balance for Q2 2021 means that almost all wood arriving in the UK has been presold to customers. Despite strict allocations, most buyers are already unable to purchase all the timber they want for their business.

The TTF issued a statement after recent communications from Sweden, who supply almost half of the structural wood that is used in the UK, that their current stock levels are at their lowest in over 20 years – despite record levels of production from the Swedish sawmill industry.

TTF Technical and Trade Manager Nick Boulton said: “We have great respect for our Swedish partners, who have consistently worked throughout the pandemic to meet UK wood needs; as they have done for decades. This means we need to take their statement extremely seriously.

“The already tight balance between supply and demand is already being made worse because there are insufficient heavy good vehicles available to get the wood out of UK ports and into UK customers yards.

As we enter July, sawmills and wood production facilities in Sweden and other European countries start to close for essential summer maintenance, and this will significantly reduce the available supply of structural wood for the UK. “Usually during the summer shutdown period there is a significant reliance on Swedish sawmill stocks. However, if these stocks are now at their lowest level for 20 years there will not be sufficient supply to satisfy UK structural wood demand in Q3.

•

Although prices have risen substantially from an artificially-low

Regularly communicate with your suppliers, as the situation develops over coming months.

point towards the end of 2019, they have now exceeded the levels of

•

2018, and are set to increase further as the current supply situation

You should communicate early with your clients of any potential price rises, and long lead times, using the information produced by

significantly worsens. We have been warning since the beginning of the

the TTF where necessary in these discussions.

year that we believed Q3 would be the most difficult part of the year,

•

Make sure orders are being placed well ahead of time and planning

and there is now sufficient information to support this assessment.

for any potential cost increases when setting out the cost of a

“It’s important to note that timber is not alone in this scenario.

project. Where possible seek earlier agreement of orders with

As the Construction Leadership Council has made clear, demand has

clients to reflect longer lead times.

outpaced supply across the board, which is affecting the availability of

•

nearly all construction products.”

Aim to work collaboratively with your suppliers and be as flexible as possible with specifications and quantities required.

TTF is now urging manufacturers and those in the timber frame and More at  www.ttf.co.uk

trussed rafter sectors to consider the following actions:

Marking systems for SAWMILLS, PANEL and PALLET MANUFACTURERS

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

SME wood manufacturers look to smart digital tools Made Smarter’s technology adoption programme is deploying smart

“In that same spirit of innovation, as we tread a cautious roadmap

glasses to SME wood manufacturers to virtually fast track their

out of lockdown, and to minimise the spread of the virus, we have

digital adoption strategies and navigate Covid-19 restrictions.

developed virtual line walks. When it comes to how things are made

The wearable device enables technology specialists from Made

there is no substitute for seeing it for yourself, but the use of smart

Smarter to perform virtual end to end production line walks of factories

glasses is a fantastic alternative. They are specifically designed to keep

with a business as part of the digital transformation workshop (DTW)

both your hands free, letting the wearer demonstrate how things work,

process. These fully-funded, bespoke workshops are led by technology

what products look like, or easily show relevant paperwork.”

advisers who cut through the jargon to provide impartial advice to help

Made Smarter has different types of smart glasses to suit different

a business identify the most effective technologies to overcome their

requirements including: the Epson Moverio, Realwear HMT-, Vuzix

operational challenges.

Blade and Magic Leap. The glasses come with a 4G dongle to ensure

The virtual visit allows advisers to dial in to a conference call and

connectivity if there are Wi-Fi or network coverage challenges. They

watch each manufacturing operation being performed in order. This

even work offline, which means manufacturers can record a video of

enables discussions around inputs, outputs, process control, and quality

the production line walk which can be reviewed later. The glasses are

performance in order to provide a clear picture of each businesses’

connected through Remote Eye software which enables a live stream

bespoke operation. The introduction of smart glasses has enabled

video and the opportunity to take high-definition screenshots which can

Made Smarter to overcome access restrictions and limitations caused

be tagged in a library for swift access. Viewers can also use a cursor to

by the pandemic to get the vital insights needed to support the

direct the wearer to any areas of interest and annotate the picture in

manufacturer’s digital transformation. It also gives manufacturers a

real time.

valuable opportunity to test how this emerging technology could be

Digital transformation workshops identify other ways the Made

used in their business.

Smarter programme can support a manufacturer including: fully-funded

Will Kinghorn, industrial digital technology advisor for Made

digital technology internships to help implement projects and bring

Smarter, said: “In the wake of the pandemic we redesigned our digital

a fresh perspective and new skills into the business, specialist advice

transformation workshops to continue delivery when in-person visits

about workforce development and skills and funding for new digital

were not possible. This approach has helped 141 manufacturers

tools and technologies such as data and systems integration, robotics

engage in a streamlined process designed to accelerate manufacturing

and automation or additive manufacturing.

growth by identifying digital tools and technologies that can maximise More at  madesmarter.uk

operational processes.

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

BSW Timber acquires Bayram Timber The acquisition of Bayram will strengthen BSW’s value-added

strengthening our position in the value-added timber market by

processing capabilities and further broaden BSW’s product offering

acquiring Bayram. The opportunity to enhance our supply chain and

and service to customers. Established over 20 years ago, Bayram

additionally widen our product offering is exciting. This represents

is a market leading timber processor and manufacturer, and a key

another major milestone in the growth of BSW and provides our

supplier into the UK caravan, leisure home and garden sectors.

customers with a more robust and broader range of products. We

Operating from a 17 acre

are looking forward to

site in Melton, East Yorkshire,

drawing on the expertise and

the business has annual sales

knowledge of Geoff, Chris

of £30 million and employs

Husband and the whole team

over 160 people. Following

at Bayram. I would also like to

the acquisition, BSW plans

thank the Endless LLP team

to undertake a significant

for their support in acquiring

capital investment program

Bayram.”

in the Melton site to increase

Bayram will be integrated

capacity and broaden the

with BSW Timber Solutions

capabilities of the business.

Ltd and will continue to

Geoff Goodwin, Chairman

operate from the existing site

of Bayram, said: “We are

in Melton. Bayram processes

proud of what we have

120,000m³ of machined and

achieved at Bayram over the last 20 years and delighted to be selling

further refined timber annually, with the support of 160 colleagues.

the business to such a good home in BSW. Bayram has a strong position

Bayram supplies bespoke components for many markets including

within the caravan and timber market, and by being a valued supplier

garden, caravan manufacturers, timber merchants and decking and

into BSW for many years, we feel this acquisition is hugely positive for

cladding retailers.

our employees, customers and the whole supply chain.”

More at  www.bsw.co.uk

Tony Hackney, CEO of BSW, added: “We are very pleased to be

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

BWF Fire Door Alliance launches ‘Be Certain, Be Certified’ campaign

The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Fire Door Alliance has

ensure that their fire doors meet the correct standards. Only through

launched an awareness campaign, ‘Be Certain, Be Certified’, to

specifying fire doors that are third-party certified can building owners,

highlight the importance of third-party certification of fire doors

managers and occupants have peace of mind that their fire doors will

in improving fire safety standards across the UK. The campaign

be fit for purpose, in terms of fire resistance and smoke control, and

addresses a “clear lack of understanding” over what certification is

perform as designed in the event of a fire.”

and the vital role it plays in protecting lives.

Third-party certification of fire doors provides independent evidence

‘Be Certain, Be Certified’ calls for the adoption of third-party

of the performance of a fire door and ensures that its performance

certification of fire doors throughout all UK buildings to raise the

data was not a one-off result. A robust process, fire door third-party

standards of fire door safety and help protect lives. It also provides

certification requires fire door manufacturers and processors to be

detailed information on fire door safety ahead of upcoming legislation

audited by a third-party, fire door assemblies to be tested to industry

– the Fire Safety Bill and Building Safety Bill – which will strengthen

standards and ongoing audits carried out to ensure all products are

regulation over fire safety for all building types.

tested appropriately and produced to a consistent standard.

An informational platform, ‘Be Certain, Be Certified’ offers

Third-party certified fire doors manufactured, or modified, by a

guidance and resources to anyone who is responsible for specifying

BWF Fire Door Alliance member, carry a label with a unique code. This

fire doors in any UK building. The campaign also gives expert insight

provides access to vital information such as the name of the fire door

into the third-party certification of fire doors, detailing the testing,

manufacturer or processor, certification information and the product

verification of product performance and manufacturing process

specification and production records. The primary label will also show

controls undertaken by an independent body.

the fire door rating for its minimum tested burn performance, for

Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation said:

example FD30 which denotes a minimum 30-minute burn time.

“Fire doors play an essential role in protecting building occupants from

Helen Hewitt, CEO added: “There is currently no mandatory

the spread of smoke and fire and can be the difference between life

requirement under Building Regulations for organisations, public

and death. But there is a clear lack of understanding throughout the

or private, to use third-party certified fire doors, and we’ve seen a

supply chain over fire door performance and compliance, which means

significant number continuing to use non-certified doors, despite

we continue to see fire doors that are not fit for purpose used across

knowing the dangers that improper fire doors pose to building

the UK, putting lives at risk.

occupants and users. At the BWF Fire Door Alliance we believe the

“Ahead of the biggest changes to fire safety legislation in recent

only way to ensure a fire door is fit for purpose is through third-party

times, through the introduction of the Fire Safety and Building Safety

certification.”

Bills and the proposed technical review of Approved Document B, More at  firedoors.bwf.org.uk/be-certain-be-certified

now is the time for all building owners, landlords and specifiers to Timber Trader UK Magazine

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Confederation of Timber Industries announces new Chair He was awarded the OBE in 2012 for his services to the joinery industry.

Stepping into the role is Alex Goodfellow, group managing director, Strategic Development, of Stewart Milne Group. Alex has over 35-years’ experience of working within the housebuilding and offsite timber frame sector bringing vast and varied experience to the chair role of the CTI, having previously serves as a non-executive director.

Alex has been with Stewart Milne Group for over 20 years and has led the UK wide growth of their successful timber systems business.

He is also chair of the Strategy group, ensuring their housebuilding business is future-ready by leading the product design and accelerated build strategies as the business maximises the use of modern methods of construction (MMC) to deliver sustainable long-term growth.

“I look forward to driving forward the mission of the CTI and placing timber at the centre of a sustainable, vibrant and prosperous modern After serving four years as Chair of the Confederation of Timber

UK economy,” says Alex. “It is more important than ever we work

Industries (CTI), Roy Wakeman OBE, is handing over the reins to

collaboratively to promote and protect the markets for, and interests

fellow sector expert, Alex Goodfellow (pictured).

of, timber and timber products and systems. Building in timber is a form of carbon capture and storage and is essential to decarbonising

Roy said: “I have spent more than 55 years in the wood processing industry starting out as a lad tallying and measuring timber for

construction. To make this happen we have a full calendar of

Montague L Meyer in their Hull base. In all that time I have not lost the

engagements, political advocacy, market research, policy reports, and

passion nor drive for the material, and I am pleased beyond doubt to

other events in the year ahead. Our many thanks to Roy for his hard

see that at last we have moved the issue to the top of the agenda. I

work over the last four years to advance the interest of timber, and

wish the organisation and colleagues every success in their quest for

helping to secure a better, stronger future for our industry.”

Upcoming next month for the CTI is the relaunch of the APPG for

an even wider awareness of the unique advantages and selling points of the material in the construction, building, home improvement and

the Timber Industries together with a new #NetZeroNow campaign

consumer markets.”

highlighting how timber can help the UK Government deliver on its economic, employment, housing, and climate targets now.

Roy has been elected President of the British Woodworking Federation three times, is a member of the Institute of Wood Science,

More at  www.cti-timber.org

as well as a member of the Institute of Materials and Fellow of the RSA.

 The CTI has relaunched the APPG for the Timber Industries with an Inaugural General Meeting on Monday 5 July.

With the launch of the APPG, the CTI are

from it, and you will benefit if you have an

to our MPs – loudly – if we are to get our

making a channel to put timber centre stage,

MP from your constituency. This is why we

voice into Parliament. Remember, your

saying: “While in the timber industry we

are calling on all our members, whichever

competitors in construction do talk to their

know the benefits of building with wood

association they are in, to write to their local

MPs, and they tell very different stories.

and how our businesses bring economic

MP to invite them to join the APPG.

We face fierce competition from other

prosperity in every region of the UK, not

This is because as a local business,

parts of the sector who aggressively push

all politicians are aware. With the launch

employer, and as members of MP’s

against sustainable construction, and lobby

of the APPG, the CTI are making a channel

communities you have a powerful voice in

politicians to push against higher standards,

to put timber centre stage. The APPG will

their constituency and remember it is up to

regulating embodied carbon, or other

only succeed if we have the best politicians

us as an industry to tell the story of timber

policies which would aid your business.”

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

Huws Gray invests in new timber engineering facility Independent builders merchant Huws Gray has furthered its

new production site in Bangor, now has one of the largest combined

commitment to being the complete solution for timber frame,

timber engineering production facilities in the UK. Huws Gray Timber

roof trusses, metal web joists and spandrel panels by investing in a

Engineering are gold accredited members of the Structural Timber

40,000sq. ft production site.

Association (STA) and full members of the truss rafter association.

The new facility, based in Bangor, is in addition to the existing

The company’s customer base includes self-builders, large contractors,

timber engineering plant in Welshpool and will more than double

construction companies, housing associations and architects.

the company’s operational capacity, creating local employment with More at  www.hgtimberengineering.co.uk

production and design opportunities. Osian Jones, area manager for Huws Gray Timber Engineering commented: “We are very optimistic about the expansion of this division of the business. We are confident that we can service any customers timber engineering requirements, by offering a complete solution that is fully managed in-house. We have decades of experience within the teams based at both sites and state of the art machinery to deliver the highest specification on products.”

Huws Gray Group, is one of the largest independent builders merchants in the UK, employing just over 1700 people across North Wales, The North West, the North of England, East Midlands, and East Anglia, operating with over 100 timber and builders merchants. In 2000, the Group acquired Anglesey Timber to expand its production capabilities of roof trusses, timber frames, metal web joists and spandrel panels. The further acquisition of AC Roof Trusses in March 2020, and a

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

West Fraser joins Builders Merchant Building Index panel West Fraser (formerly known as Norbord) is pleased to have joined

Simon Woods says West Fraser is joining the BMBI panel of experts

the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) panel of industry

at a crucial time for the wood panel industry. He explains: “With increased

experts. The BMBI, part of the Builders Merchant Federation (BMF),

demand for wood panels being driven by the move to wood as a carbon-

is a monthly index of builders’ merchant sales and West Fraser’s

friendly resource, joining the panel of experts will give us a great opportunity

European sales, marketing & logistics Director, Simon Woods

to share our valuable knowledge of this particular area as all panels produced

(pictured), will add valuable insights from the wood-based panels

in West Fraser’s UK mills are net carbon negative. The general appetite for

sector, exploring issues and opportunities faced by manufacturers

lessening human impact on the planet along with the target placed on the

and the impact of these on the market.

construction industry to reduce its carbon footprint at a time when demand is outstripping supply of most timber products has created challenges for

BMBI’s panel of experts is made up of 14 leading brands each with an in-depth knowledge of their own industry. The group is a go-to

our industry. We see 2021 as a year of both optimism and frustration for

resource for the wider construction industry, the media, government

all sectors of the timber market, but we are confident that strong planning

and its advisors.

partnerships across the whole supply chain will help to smooth the way.”

 Norbord Europe Ltd is now part of the West Fraser organisation of the West Fraser organisation. It is business as usual at the three UK plants – in Cowie and Inverness, Scotland and South Molton, Devon – with no change in personnel.

“We are delighted to be working within the West Fraser family,” said David Connacher, marketing manager. “It gives us the opportunity to continue growing, developing and maximising our European business as we have been doing for many years. It is very much business as usual and our customer-facing teams are communicating this positive message to our key partners.”

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company with more than 60 facilities in Canada, the United States and Europe. From responsibly-sourced and sustainably- managed forest resources, West Fraser produces lumber, engineered wood (OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, particleboard), and other products including pulp, As the UK’s number one engineered wood panel manufacturer

newsprint, wood chips and renewable energy. West Fraser’s

and serving the housebuilding and construction industry with a

products are used in construction, repair and remodelling, industrial

vast array of board products for flooring, panelling and roofing,

applications, papers, tissue and box materials.

Norbord was the go-to corporate name behind the company’s popular brands for architects, merchants, specifiers, end-users and

More at  uk.westfraser.com

consumers alike. These successful, well-known brand names will

You can also read more about the West Fraser developments

remain – SterlingOSB Zero CaberFloor and CaberWood MDF as part

this issue on p18

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TIMBER TRADER UK  NEWS

National Timber Group strengthens team

(L-R) Ricky McGarry, Fraser McNicol, and David Brown

Scottish timber specialists Thornbridge

experience, which will benefit the Group’s

McNicol is also an internal promotion. He has

Sawmills and Rembrand Timber have

customers. Ricky is responsible for the sales

worked at Thornbridge Sawmills for five years

strengthened their national sales team with

and development of 27 branches as well as

and was previously a manager at its Glasgow

three key appointments. The companies,

the National Sales Office and Grangemouth

branch.

which are both part of National Timber

Operations and is also looking to expand into

Group, have introduced a new sales and

new geographical regions and market sectors.

Timber Group (Scotland), said: “Ricky, David,

national account director, as well as regional

David Brown, national account director,

and Fraser are brilliant appointments and have

sales director. The newly created positions

has more than three decades’ experience and

all hit the ground running. They will help us

have been filled by Ricky McGarry, David

is a specialist in key account management.

deliver even better service to key customers

Brown, and Fraser McNicol, respectively.

He has been working at Rembrand Timber

by providing consistent points of contact that

since 2013 and impressed during his time as

understand their business requirements.”

Sales director, Ricky McGarry has worked in the construction industry for almost 40

an area sales Manager, securing a well-earned

years and brings a wealth of knowledge and

promotion. Regional sales director, Fraser

Nick Ratcliffe, managing director, National

More at  www.nationaltimbergroup.com

TRADA introduce ‘Fundamentals of Timber’ webinars TRADA’s online programme Learn with TRADA Live has gone from strength to strength since its initial launch in January this year. Almost a thousand people have signed up so far, proving that the online learning space – which has been so enlivened by the recent restrictions – is here to stay, even as the world begins to open up again.

The next series ‘Fundamentals of timber’ will begin in July with BM TRADA timber experts Phil O’Leary and Lewis Taylor – experienced teachers within the field – leading attendees through a whole host of timber topics for the rest of the year, including: what you need to consider when using and specifying timber, trees and the nature of wood, wood and timber properties and moisture in timber.

This series is intended as an introductory resource for newcomers to the material and those looking to construct a strong foundational layer of knowledge upon which to build with the support of a trusted authority like

Learn with TRADA Live sessions are free to all TRADA members as

TRADA. Consequently, the series has been designed to facilitate the

part of their membership benefits. However, non-members can attend

learning experience for both regular and occasional attendees, with

each session for £30 + VAT.

each session self-contained but adding to the overall, comprehensive More at  www.trada.co.uk

picture of timber.

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FEATURE  INDUSTRY SUPPLY

Long Term Market Pressures Demand for timber and construction products is at record highs both in the UK and globally, with reports suggesting that shortages are set to continue throughout 2021.

A

ddressing some of these

This is putting enormous pressure on the

concerns, John Newcomb, CEO

housebuilding supply chain, especially roofing

Builders Merchants Federation

contractors, in terms of what price increases

and Peter Caplehorn, CEO

they can absorb and what they have to pass on.”

Construction Products Association, who co-

Reflecting on Marley’s position in respect

chairs of CLC Product Availability work group

of its JB Red timber brand, the company’s

released a statement saying that the availability

roof systems director Stuart Nicholson said:

issues we are currently experiencing are likely

“The global/US pressure of increased demand

to worsen before they improve.

for timber has exacerbated the supply issues

“While supplies of plaster and plasterboard

caused by the pandemic and Brexit. Therefore,

are much improved on last year, almost every

it remains extremely challenging to secure the

other product group is experiencing longer lead

raw materials needed to produce and supply

times and, as a consequence, higher prices,” they

finished products.”

said. “Imports of timber will be an issue for the

SR Timber’s trading director Shaun Revill

foreseeable future. Not enough timber is being

says: “We’re in the very fortunate position

produced to meet world demand. Added to

of having our own dedicated sawmill in the

this, other countries are prepared to pay more

Baltics, which means we have our own robust

to secure their supply, pushing the UK lower

supply chain – but even that has been tested

down the pecking order. All users should plan for increased demand and longer delays, keep

to the limit recently with Brexit and Covid-19,

Image © SR Timber

and we are not insulated from what’s going

open lines of communication with their suppliers

on globally. We have been very proactive

and order early for future projects.”

and transparent with our customers and

The Office for National Statistics (ONS)

given them lots of information to explain the

also projected a rise of 7-8% in material prices

situation regarding stock availability – which

this year, with increases for timber, expected

currently has a lead time of around ten days –

to more than double. Travis Perkins – the

and price movements.”

UK’s biggest builders’ merchant also grabbed

James Talman, chief executive of the NFRC,

national headlines by warning customers of

said: “We are currently seeing unprecedented

‘considerable cost increases’ to raw materials

shortages of roofing materials, in particular

amid the industry-wide shortage. Speaking

timber. This is due to a whole host of different

to The Times, Travis Perkins said it had been

reasons, from Covid-19 restrictions to the

informing customers in its stores, websites and

impact of low US timber supplies. Our data

by email of the price rises, with the price of

shows that two-thirds of roofing contractors

bagged cement up by 15%, chipboard by 10%

saw material availability deteriorate in the first

and paint by 5% at its UK outlets.

quarter of the year, and 89% reported price

Leading voices from the UK roofing

rises. Timber battens were the second-highest

industry have also warned of ‘faltering

material shortage after roof tiles with a third

availability and rapidly rising costs of basic materials such as timber roofing battens.’ The

of contractors reporting shortages. Whilst our Image © SR Timber

supplier members are doing all they can to

National Federation of Roofing Contractors

alleviate shortages, it will still be some time

(NFRC), Avonside Group (including Avonside Roofing), Marley and SR

before we are back to steady levels of supply, and homebuilders therefore

Timber said global timber shortages have put the UK housebuilding

need to work collaboratively with roofing contractors to plan ahead, build

industry’s supply chain under enormous pressure with extremely low

in lead times, factor in price rises and ensure flexibility in contracts.”

available stocks of European softwood

It is now critical that everyone in the supply chain – customers,

For roofing contractors, the biggest impacts are on cost and

merchants and suppliers – to be planning material purchasing and supplies

productivity. Delays in supplies of materials such as batten present a real

further and further in advance. This way everyone can better meet the

and serious risk to housebuilders’ production schedules, the financial

forecasted timber volumes and increasing industry demands to reduce the

impact of which can be severe. Avonside Group’s CEO Eddie Stanton said:

stress on building completion and market pressures across the UK.

“The price of roofing batten is rising on a monthly basis, already in excess More at  www.constructionproducts.org.uk  www.nfrc.co.uk

of 50% over the past six months, and supply lead times are getting longer.

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6118

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FEATURE  INDUSTRY SUPPLY

Making the Most of Timber Supplies

To help merchants address some of the current product shortages, the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) is recommending that buyers and suppliers collaborate closely and continue to plan ahead.

T

imber purchasers should be as flexible as possible with

more time-consuming, presenting a challenge when mills are under

specifications and quantities required, thus making the

pressure to maximise volume throughput. Supplies of panel products

most of available supplies. The TTF says that Q3 this

also continue to be greatly under pressure, and will remain so throughout

year will be the most challenging time for timber supply

2021, as there is little additional global production capacity available.

in recent history. Sawmill stocks in countries such as Sweden, a major

Significant demand is being experienced for particular products such as

supplier of structural timbers to the UK, are at their lowest for some 20

Melamine-faced panels, particularly in MDF, as consumers improve their

years, according to Swedish Wood, though production up to the summer

homes and create office-style working spaces.

was, in their words, proceeding at “full throttle”. The Construction

In the wider construction sector, some house-builders are turning to

Leadership Council’s Product Availability Group has also issued an alert

engineered wood products such as LVL and CLT for building frameworks,

on shortages of all construction products of which timber is only one.

and modified wood products for claddings. However as these, alongside

A statement from EOS, the European sawmill industry organisation,

I-joists and metal web joists, utilise the same wood resources, they are

added that the wider industry is taking the demand situation “very

subject to similar constraints on supply.

seriously” and is “working on solutions” including productivity

Builders seeking hardwoods such as green Oak for framing on more

development and resource efficiency. TTF members too are looking

specialist projects are struggling to full supply gaps. All categories of

at ways to increase resource efficiency, adapting and in some cases

hardwoods from across the globe are now observing shortages, though

laminating timbers to help achieve customers’ requirements.

as yet these are not as acute as in the structural softwood sector.

Summer will see sawmills across Europe catching up on maintenance

European and American hardwoods, including all varieties of Oak, are

schedules, as they have been working at pace throughout the pandemic

in very strong demand. Supplies of European Oak are already becoming

to fulfil as much demand as possible. Any periods of shut-down may

scarce as buyers switch away from decreasing supplies of American White

well add to supply pressures, which will in turn be felt in earnest here in

Oak. As hardwoods need a long production cycle, supply is set to narrow

Britain over the next few months. The TTF is therefore recommending

further through the autumn.

constant communication with suppliers and preparing wood customers

Hardwood buyers are increasingly turning to African species to fill supply

for the potential of lengthening lead times and cost increases. Placing

gaps, with supplies of Sapele, Sipo (Utile) and Iroko already difficult. Rising

orders well ahead of time is also recommended.

costs of shipping containers, one of the many legacies of the pandemic, are

With almost all timber arriving in the UK being pre-sold, there

still with us, adding to pricing pressures. Buyers of South East Asian timbers

is no excess stock available. Even for those companies with forward

such as Meranti and Keruing are already purchasing on forward allocations;

purchasing strategies, the continuing exceptionally high demand and lack

Bangkirai (Yellow Balau) for decking is also in very short supply.

of balancing processing capacity means some companies may not receive

TTF members are doing their best to service customers. The growth in

all the material they need for their businesses. The level of demand is

global demand for timber of all kinds, now recognised for its potential to

currently higher than can be sustained by existing production facilities

store carbon in building, is likely to continue in the medium term. Upward

and available input supplies across the UK and Europe.

price trends are thus likely to continue for some time to come.

Supplies of BS tile batten are particularly problematic. An increased More at  www.ttf.co.uk

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FEATURE  PANEL PRODUCTS

New Face for Key Industry Supplier

As has been widely reported, Norbord UK is now part of West Fraser. With Norbord a very familiar name in the industry – who are West Fraser and what does the acquisition bring to the UK market and product range?

W

est Fraser is a diversified wood products company with more than 60 facilities in Canada, the United States and Europe and was founded in 1955 when three brothers – Sam, Bill and Pete Ketcham – pooled their resources

to buy a small planing mill in Quesnel, British Columbia, Canada. From responsibly-sourced and sustainably-managed forest resources, West Fraser produces timber, engineered wood (OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, particleboard), and many other products including wood chips.

Norbord UK had many well-known brands and products in its range – but will these be changing or being developed into new brands under West Fraser? And will the move to West Fraser change the focus of the business in the UK and Europe?

“Absolutely nothing has changed for our customers,” says David Connacher, marketing manager, West Fraser. “The two companies are much aligned and share many common values, including a commitment to safety, efficient manufacturing facilities, a focus on continuous improvement and teamwork, as well as manufacturing sustainable products that are essential

David Connacher, marketing manager, West Fraser

for a low-carbon economy. Product development and efficient supply chains will also be at the crux of the new organisation due to the merging of experienced teams. The people are the same, the products are the same,

“We supply all areas of the housebuilding and construction industry

the plants are the same – Norbord Europe now becomes the European arm

with West Fraser products and the merchant network is a vital part of our

of West Fraser following the acquisition.”

supply chain. The relationships we have built up with the merchants are important to us. We’ve adapted the way we work during the pandemic.

The SterlingOSB Zero, CaberFloor, CaberFix and CaberWood MDF ranges are incredibly successful brands and are known and respected

Our base of merchants has reacted and we are working in tandem very well.

throughout the construction industry, so while the logo will change, the

We keep in touch with Zoom or Teams meetings – we are communicating

familiar brand names will remain.

much more, with more people in one place, and in much less time which is good for everyone.

“West Fraser’s high quality boards are available in a wide range of

“Merchants and suppliers alike now seem easier to access and results

grades and, with minimal finishing required, speed up construction,” says David. “The products are incredibly versatile, offer value for money and

are quicker to realise. As the customers now order on a click-and-collect

have good environmental credentials with a low carbon footprint as all

basis in the main, their online presence is crucial. In turn, we are supporting

are made in the UK. In fact, all West Fraser panel products are net carbon

our customers with online sales and product training and, if a conversation

negative and so can help the builder achieve sustainability targets. Support

is needed, our team is ready. The relationships we nurtured as Norbord have

on a product and technical basis is provided as and when required through

been taken over to West Fraser and the merchants have the reassurance of

dedicated product support and technical advice teams.

working with the same people.”

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FEATURE  PANEL PRODUCTS

The boards are square-edged so butt together easily and cleanly. Panels are cut and installed on a roof using conventional roofing equipment and are easy to saw, drill, nail or plane. Nails can be driven as close as 8mm from the panel edge without causing splitting. SterlingOSB Zero’s smooth surface gives improved adhesion qualities for all flat roofing applications and no sanding is required, even for GRP finishes.

With all the advantages of the Sterling OSB Zero range, SterlingOSB Zero T&G is specifically designed for flat roofing and is BBA approved and fully compliant to BS 6229:2003. The panels are consistent and machined to exact tolerances. Reliable fixings are easily achieved across the board using 3mm diameter ring-shank nails or 50mm long screws at 100mm centres across West Fraser Product Application: Roofing (OSB)

the supporting joists. The tongue and groove profile helps increase the lifespan of the roof by reducing movement of the boards which could

Getting buildings wind and watertight is a priority on any

damage surface coverings.

construction site so choosing a quick, easy to install, reliable and versatile

Timber is a highly sustainable building material, and with the

roofing system is vital. High quality roof decking or pitched roof sarking is an essential component and oriented strand board (OSB) is now

Sterling OSB Zero range, there is the added reassurance that the

the preferred option for many. Unsurprisingly, given the product’s

product’s environmental credentials are further enhanced. The panels

outstanding attributes, West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 or

are net carbon negative, responsibly sourced and FSC-certified. They are

SterlingOSB Zero T&G is frequently the first choice.

manufactured in the UK from locally grown timber, cutting embodied

Ideal for structural use in load bearing dry or humid conditions,

carbon from transportation. In addition, all West Fraser mills have

SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 offers great value and durability. Stronger than

obtained the coveted environmental ISO 14001 accreditation. The

most softwood ply, thanks to its makeup of multiple layers of real wood

Sterling OSB Zero range is also the first OSB product to be made in the

strands pressed together, it is designed to withstand the toughest of

UK with zero added formaldehyde, so it is an even ‘greener’ board that

conditions. Working with the boards is trouble free as they are uniform in

meets all standards with ease.

quality with no knots, voids or delamination issues. Helping to cut waste, More at  uk.westfraser.com

a range of panel sizes and thicknesses is available to suit all needs.

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COVER STORY  LONZA WOOD PROTECTION

Education and Evolution – the key focus for timber treatment

Vacsol™ 6118 can be used to treat timbers in Use Class 1, 2 and 3 (coated)

Andy Hodge from Lonza Wood Protection explores how innovation in timber protection technology, coupled with a deep rooted commitment to quality, is key to protecting the long-term reputation of timber.

T

hrough independent studies,

time we are embarking on our own education

known on the market as Vacsol™ 6118, the

parliamentary positioning and

programme, focusing upon the need for the

wood preservative has been designed to treat

fantastic industry campaigns,

timber treatment market to evolve and work

timbers in Use Class 1, 2 and 3 (coated). It

there is a growing awareness

with specifiers to help ensure that correctly

provides an effective ‘envelope’ of long-term

that using timber sourced

treated timber is the ‘go to’ construction

protection against fungal and insect attack

material of the future.

around general building timbers and joinery

from sustainable sources is one of the most effective ways to reduce carbon emissions across the construction sector. However, with a spotlight firmly on timber, education

components.

A focus on whole-life carbon impact In the design of new products we invest in

With Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) authorisation, timber treated with Vacsol™

about timber protection technologies has

assessing the whole-life carbon impact of the

6118 is non-hazardous to human health,

never been so crucial.

timber treatment being developed, looking

animal health and to the environment, and

First and foremost the timber used in

beyond its performance characteristics to also

at end of life can be re-used or recycled. In

construction needs to be properly protected

consider how it is manufactured, transported

addition, whilst other low pressure wood

from the threat of decay and insect attack.

and industrially applied and whether it can be

preservatives are often transported as diluted

Without this, timber structures would be

reused or recycled at end of life.

solutions, Vacsol™ 6118 has been designed

replaced more frequently owing to decay.

This means that everyone in the industry has a role to play, from the companies supplying the timber protection technology, through to specifiers correctly selecting timbers treated to the appropriate Use Class.

Currently the Wood Protection Association (WPA) and the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) are engaging in a supply

With designing for the future in mind, it is key to evidence how treated timber can perform as well, if not better, as substitute materials and also how it has a lower environmental impact in end-use applications.

chain education programme that shines a spotlight on the specification and supply of treated timber products to the correct Use Class. At Lonza Wood Protection we fully

A good example of this approach is the

as an easy-to-use concentrate that can be

support this campaign as awareness of Use

launch of Vacsol™ Aqua 6118, a water-based

diluted on-site to meet individual business

Classes is crucial to protecting the long-term

low pressure wood preservative that is both

requirements, thus cutting the carbon

reputation of timber. However, at the same

metal free and VOC free. More commonly

footprint of transportation.

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COVER STORY  LONZA WOOD PROTECTION

Keeping wood in the game With designing for the future in mind, it is key to evidence how treated timber can perform as well, if not better, as substitute materials and also how it has a lower environmental impact in end-use applications. The best way of doing this is through life cycle analysis (LCA), which is something that Lonza Wood Protection has invested in for the development of Tanasote™.

An oil-based, BPR authorised wood preservative containing copper and innovative organic co-biocides, Tanasote™ S40 has been designed to minimise early failures whilst providing a long service life to heaving duty timber applications. For the development of Tanasote™ S40 an LCA was carried out by independent practitioners following ISO 14040 and ISO 14044. The LCA ‘ReCiPe’ method was adopted, covering analysis of the following three categories for end use applications such as railway sleepers and utility poles: (i) damage to ecosystem, (ii) damage to human health and (iii) damage to resources. A sensitivity analysis was also completed to assess the influence of agricultural land occupation and terrestrial land transformation as part of the LCA. Looking specifically at utility poles, the LCA results show that Tanasote™ S40 treated wooden

Tanasote™ is a mineral oil based wood preservative designed for heavy duty timbers, such as track timbers

poles were the lowest impact pole type when compared against a cast concrete pole, fibreglass polyester pole, steel pole, spun concrete pole and

organisation. Over a decade ago we launched

technologies, we have recently launched the

fibreglass epoxy pole. The Tanasote™ S40 treated

Tanatone™ brown colourants for use with

Tanalith™ Lifestyle range to sit alongside the

wooden pole had the lowest impact in damage to

our Tanalith™ high pressure preservative

existing Tanatone™ range and provide a high

ecosystems, damage to human health and damage

treatment, which have proved to be incredibly

performance colourant option.

to resource and several sensitivity analyses also

popular and successful with our customers

showed that the Tanasote™ S40 treated wooded

to give their markets a different initial colour

a typical colour life of up to two years, depending

pole was the lowest impact option.

choice to their high pressure treated timbers.

upon location and exposure to UV light, as well as

Building upon this, we have been increasingly

still allowing the treated timbers to achieve the

asked for an improved longevity to the

usual desired service life expectations from a

colours as well as the inclusion of a new grey

preservative point of view.

Evolving with market demands Working with the supply chain to ensure wood protection technologies evolve with

colour option, which is very much in-vogue.

market trends is another key focus within our

After extensive testing of colour additive

The new Tanalith™ Lifestyle colours will have

More at  www.trusttreatedtimber.com

The artist impressions shown here illustrate the difference that the three Tanalith™ Lifestyle colours could bring to a cladding project

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FEATURE  FACTORY EXPANSION

A Step Forward for UK Timber Production

Arbor Forest Products launched its new sawmill planing line earlier this year, thought to be the most advanced system of its kind in the UK, as part of a £12 million investment to enhance its facilities.

T

he independent timber importer and processor, which operates from its 90acre North Lincolnshire site,

developed the planing line in partnership with System Hall AB, a Swedish company which designs, manufactures and supplies a vast range of mechanical handling systems and conveyors for the timber industry. Prior to its collaboration with Arbor Forest Products, System Hall AB primarily worked in its neighbouring Nordic countries.

Working closely with System Hall AB, Arbor Forest Products’ operations team developed the production line to suit its own needs as well as those of its customers, including shed manufacturers, those building farm and equine facilities, and the wider construction industry.

The new facility allows Arbor Forest Products This ability to swiftly eliminate defects such as splits and knots from each

to offer customers excellent value, thanks to its impressive processing times and waste reduc tion capabilities as a result of unique scanning

piece of timber that goes through the line is a positive step for both Arbor

technology.

Forest Products and the wider industry in terms of waste reduction. In a time where sustainability remains a key factor in consumers’ purchasing decisions,

The line is now fully operational and can process timber at up to 200m per minute through a technologically-led process. Individual

Arbor Forest products’ new sawmill planing line allows customers to be

pieces are scanned at full line speed for both defects and dimension.

confident that they are making a choice which has minimal impact on the

Defects are subsequently removed via an in-lieu x-cut saw. Following

environment with each timber order with the company.

defect removal, cut lengths can be optimised against a pre-

For the wider sector, the new facility serves as evidence that the

programmed cutting list to an industry-leading accuracy.

demand for high quality, sustainable timber in the UK continues to grow

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FEATURE  FACTORY EXPANSION

our facilities and as a result, the levels of service we can give our customers. It is also a huge step forward for the UK timber market, with technology like this having only existed overseas until now.

“Our team has worked hard to implement this line, from my own meetings with System Hall AB’s Jaokim Blixt to agree the design and layout of the facility, to adapting to this new way of working on the ground. The select few who have been able to see the line have commented on its grand scale, and we’re proud to have launched this gamechanging facility for the UK timber market.”

Jason Ostler, managing director at Arbor Forest Products, adds: “Arbor Forest Products has been built on a passion for providing our customers with the best possible service. The investment in our new sawmill planing line – as and that now is the time for the industry to invest in providing this. Its

well as other facilities – will allow us to further deliver on this, with our

launch comes soon after Arbor Forest Products announced its largest

team now able to accurately assess each piece of timber that passes

investment in a single year, with the introduction of the line valued at

through our facility so that we can guarantee a specified level of quality

£6 million. The company has also allocated a further £6 million for other

for each batch, in line with our customers’ expectations. With most

facilities, including additional storage as part of its commitment to

industrial users reporting wastage levels of around 10-15%, it’s clear

continued improvements.

that it’s time for the UK industry to shift to a more cost-effective and sustainable way of working – and Arbor Forest Products is proud to be

“The new sawmill planing line represents a time of significant

leading the way.”

investment for Arbor Forest Products,” says Arbor Forest Products’ operations director, Phil Yell, who worked closely with System Hall

More at  www.arborforestproducts.co.uk

AB on the design of the sawmill. “As we work to continually improve

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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TDUK GLOBAL MARKET CONFERENCE 24 November | 2021

The TDUK Global Market Conference will bring together speakers and delegates from across the world to analyse the impact of the pandemic and Brexit on their timber markets and provide an outlook for the sector in the year ahead.

Tickets: TTF & TRADA Members are free Non-members - £90

www.ttf.co.uk

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The 2021 Inaugural dinner of

TIMBER DEVELOPMENT UK formerly the Timber Trade Federation Annual Dinner

WEDNESDAY 24 NOVEMBER 2021

BOOK YOUR TICKET: ttf.co.uk/upcoming-events/ Timber Trader UK Magazine

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FEATURE  MERCHANT SOFTWARE

Getting to Grips with Post-Brexit Price Hikes Chris Fisher, UK operations director at ECI Software Solutions, explores some of the ways builders’ merchants can alleviate disruption and price hikes – while still offering a high quality service.

W

A report by Money.co.uk found that homeowners have

It also minimises the chance of oversights or mistakes, which could be

spent £55 billion on renovations since the start of

costly and time-consuming to put right.

lockdown, with 73% intending to spend more time at Advanced reporting

home, even as restrictions slowly ease. As the nation

spends its savings and spare time on home improvement, orders for

Global supply chain issues at the beginning of the pandemic

construction materials continue to surge. But timber and builders’

highlighted how fragile modern supply chains can be, not just in

merchants across the UK are facing another challenge that could

construction but every sector. For merchants, it only underlined the

reduce the availability of key materials.

importance of up-to-the-minute business insights that inform effective

Alongside the obvious supply chain problems caused by Covid-19,

decision-making. While pandemic-related supply disruption was short-

Brexit is also causing a headache for merchants. Price increases and

lived, it’s not yet clear what the impact of Brexit will be. Whatever

materials shortages are expected to last well into the summer –

happens, you may be faced with making rapid decisions and this is when

precisely the time when garden and landscaping projects are stepped

having all the information you need at your fingertips is crucial.

up. Some 58% of UK firms are now also experiencing longer border

A cloud-based business management system, which can link your

delays due to Brexit, compounded by the new import requirements

reporting with key documents and details, saves valuable time and helps

introduced in April, with more due in July.

to increase accuracy. For even more efficiency, look for one that works

Orders might be healthy, but to maintain exceptional customer

via specific employee permission-based access, giving you control over

service you need to streamline your operations. With overheads,

sensitive information without losing time on extra layers of security.

additional costs and timelines changing daily, your sales, finance and

Tasks such as referring to previous customer orders, noting down specific

other back office processes should allow you to be flexible as demand

order requirements and accessing order summaries or account balances

changes, maximising sales opportunities and maintaining cash flow.

are made simple and easy. This sets you apart from the competition at a time when customer service and communication is key.

Fast and accurate decision-making

Working with a cloud-based system, this data is instantly available

Juggling the day-to-day responsibilities of a busy merchant’s yard is

within a few clicks, allowing you to respond quickly to customer

already challenging but processing high order volumes in an uncertain

enquiries. Even if you are experiencing shortages or delays, being able

climate will put every fast-paced business to the test. As requests and

to offer accurate waiting times or product alternatives could mean the

updates from buyers and suppliers build up, you need to be able to

difference between a lost sale and a loyal customer.

respond quickly and accurately. Relying on separate spreadsheets and

Just as the industry has weathered the disruptions caused by

physical documents could lead to errors, particularly as information and

Covid-19, the next few months will see construction and materials

governance changes on a regular basis.

businesses facing unique challenges once more, as the impact of Brexit

This is where an electronic – ideally cloud-based – document

is truly felt. However, with the right technology it’s possible to adapt

management system is essential. Look for one that is capable of storing

your processes and make sound evidence-based decisions, which in turn

a number of formats including scans, invoices and key documents

help you to fulfil customer demands and deliver exceptional service

in a central database. This way you can manage, track and save all

even in challenging circumstances.

documents securely, and ensure they’re easy to access when you need them. Many of the day-to-day processes undertaken by staff can be

More at:  www.ecisolutions.com/en-gb/builders-merchants-

streamlined which, over time, will add up to a significant time-saving.

software/spruce

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FEATURE  TIMBER TREATMENT

Choosing the Correct Option

Image © Burnblock

You rely on your supply chain to deliver ‘fit for purpose’ building products. Fire-retardant timber is a case in point. Documents tick the box. But is that enough? Mark Eggleston, managing director, WJ Group explains why ensure the correct treatment is so important.

T

imber is popular. Ecologically superior and aesthetically pleasing, it offers countless benefits. But when it comes to fire-retardant timber, there’s a knowledge gap that could risk significant errors. Incredibly, no

monitoring system exists for fire-treated timber in the UK. So, how do you know your supplier has got it right?

Let me explain where my concern comes from, and how you can handle this to correctly specify fire-retardant timber with your supply chain.

Object-based navigation It starts with The Construction Product Regulation (EU no. 305/2011).

Mark Eggleston, managing director, WJ Group

This requires the manufacturer or company placing the product on the market to CE mark it. At WJ Timber Treatments, we fire-treat timber with

Understand the testing to specify correctly

Burnblock. An eco-friendly Danish product and we adhere to the EU’s

Let me explain the importance of understanding the detail behind

interpretation of the CPR – the timber treater is responsible for CE mark

the Declaration of Performance that’ll accompany your fire-treated

provision (and the traceability this demands).

timber. Unlike many treaters, we provide a species-specific Declaration

But here’s the anomaly. The UK interprets the CPR differently. They state the company placing the treated timber for sale is responsible for CE

of Performance to accompany every fire-treated product. We don’t

marking and documentation. But how does a timber trader truly understand

have to do this, but we think it’s right. Going back to the CPR, it states

the fire-treatment process – and whether it’s fit for your purpose?

products in the ‘reaction to fire’ category must be CE marked (CE marking will become UKCA in 2022).

In the UK, the timber treater only needs a Factory Production Control

To achieve CE marking for timber cladding, for example, BS

document, audited in line with a quality management standard like ISO 9001.

This makes no reference to the relevant product harmonised standard. And

EN14915/2013 is the correct harmonised standard to meet. This states

no documented traceability back to BS EN 13501 fire classification report

the AVCP (Assessment and Verification of Constancy of Performance)

(Euro B or C). As fire treating timber significantly alters the performance of it,

must be Class 1 for reaction to fire products. AVCP1 requires continual

we maintain the EU’s stance and provide full treatment traceability.

auditing by a notified body. WJ uses Finetrol.

The notified body then provides a Constancy of Performance,

We don’t have to do this. The UK says we’re not the business placing the product on the market. Nor the manufacturer. But we believe we

renewed after every annual audit. Only then can your supplier issue a

should be doing this. It’s our moral responsibility to provide people like

species-specific Declaration of Performance. It’s complex. And that’s

you with total confidence.

why it’s vital to ask your supplier the right questions.

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

Do it the Wright way!

Fire Retardant Treated Timber & Plywood 100% natural, non-toxic & bio-degradable

Approved decorative coating

Fire class B-s1, d0

DRF Class EN 16755:2017

For further information, please call, click or visit: WJ Group, 1A Main Street, Kirkburn, Driffield YO25 9DU T: 01377 796001 E: info@firewright.co.uk

wj-group.co.uk

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FEATURE  TIMBER TREATMENT

Image © Burnblock

The notified body then provides a Constancy of Performance, renewed after every annual audit.

Only then can your supplier issue a species-specific Declaration of Performance. It’s complex. And that’s why it’s vital to ask your supplier the right questions.

Image © Burnblock

Image © Burnblock

Three questions to ask

place by the notified body that issued the fire classification report on

Ask your supplier these questions. You’ll uncover evidence behind

behalf of the fire-retardant chemical supplier. A generic Declaration of

the paperwork – and that’s what leads to a fit-for-purpose specification.

Performance is, quite frankly, dangerous.

Timber that will perform correctly in the event of a fire.

3. If you’re supplied with a Factory Production Control 1. Does your treater issue the CE mark and Declaration of

document, was it audited against the correct harmonised

Performance?

standard?

This is rarely the case (aside from WJ). So, how can your provider

For example, that would be EN14915/2013 for cladding. The CPR

sufficiently understand the testing and third-party auditing required

doesn’t make this clear so it’s easy to have a disconnect between

to create these documents?

an irrelevant standard and the control document. Another risky situation. Fire retardant timber is complex. And yet, so crucial to

2. Is the Declaration of Performance specific to the timber

specify correctly.

species?

Reputable treaters have a Constancy of Performance that summaries

More at  www.wj-group.co.uk or you can email Mark at

the fire classification report for each species. Robust auditing will take

 mark@wj-group.co.uk

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Introducing the new

TIMBERMEDIA.CO.UK Your source for all things Timber, with more news, features and resources.

We’ve redesigned our website to give you a better experience – whether you’re a reader, advertiser, marketeer or work in the timber sector, Timber Media is for you.

INDUSTRY SECTOR NEWS

IN-DEPTH FEATURES

UPCOMING EVENTS

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

WEB & PRINT ADVERTISING

VISIT THE NEW SITE

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FEATURE  INSURANCE

Focusing on the Facts

A Time for Timber campaign white paper aims to help insurance companies understand the vital role they play in supporting the construction industry to achieve net zero status by 2050.

F

ounded with the ambition of challenging misconceptions

interest in supporting timber projects, but the lack of clear and reliable

in the insurance and financial sectors about structural

information is hampering this effort. The hope is that this white paper

timber, the Time for Timber campaign seeks to highlight

will help us to engage with insurance companies, so that we can close

the material’s numerous sustainable benefits and

the gap between misinformation and the facts before it is too late.”

underlines the need to increase its use if we are to stand any chance

The technical advancement of structural timber has given designers

of preventing the environmental crisis that we face today.

and engineers the ability to consider the use of timber as an alternative to concrete and steel. Managed in the right way, timber can be

Recently, there has been an increasing reluctance to back timber projects by some insurers – yet, as the long-term impacts of climate

considered no more of a risk than any other building material. If the

change become more widely felt, insurers are increasingly realising

construction industry has recognised its part in achieving net zero, then

the value in supporting such low carbon construction methods.

what of insurers and investors?

Unfortunately, some uncertainties still remain – and the white paper

Looking at the global approach to the use of engineered wood

is an attempt to address this balance by providing a credible source of

systems, outside of the UK, there is a robust industry in other countries

factual information and research.

from North America, to Scandinavia, through central Europe to Australia. As insurance is a global industry, there is certainly something

Reiterating the environmental, economic, health and well-being benefits that structural timber has to offer, the white paper also

to be learned from other countries insurers’ experience and the

expresses a real desire to work with the UK’s insurance sector to further

performance of buildings they cover. With the focus now on rebuilding

its understanding, using international examples to demonstrate that

the economy and to mitigate the future risk of climate change, the

timber is a widely recognised and viable structural material.

Time for Timber campaign is central to starting the dialogue between the construction industry and those that insure buildings, from site to

“While we still feel that the Government’s net zero targets are

completion, and beyond.

achievable, we are rapidly running out of time,” says Andrew Orriss,

It’s clear that the insurance sector is feeling rather risk averse at

chief operating officer at the Structural Timber Association (STA).

present. Having come through some tough years, the future threat

“We have spoken to many insurance companies and there is a genuine Timber Trader UK Magazine

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FEATURE  INSURANCE

Managed in the right way, timber can be considered no more of a risk than any other building material. If the construction industry has recognised its part in achieving net zero, then what of insurers and investors?

that the pandemic causes in terms of claims are unknown and with this

as additional exposure now, whether that’s from understanding the

uncertainty, coming fast on the heels of the issues raised by Grenfell, it

design of the building, or from the potential of fire, or even from water

is no wonder that the building industry causes a bit of a headache for

damage. It is these misgivings and uncertainties that have highlighted

brokers and underwriters

the need for this campaign, to educate and reassure the construction

From the conversations that have arisen since the start of the

insurance sector as to the benefits of timber.

Time For Timber campaign, when it comes to insuring projects that

The positive benefits that the increased use of timber brings to the

involve timber, there is a real reluctance to take on what is perceived

economy, climate change and achieving net zero are clear: albeit clear to those in construction. It is evident that facing a climate crisis, there needs to be a consolidated approach to how we, as a joined-up economy can move forwards. This follows on from many insurers recognising the perils that climate change can bring, from increased risks from flooding, or from the forest fires that have dominated the news agenda in California and Australia in just one year.

Environmentalists and economists welcomed the news that the number of insurers withdrawing cover for coal projects more than doubled this year and for the first time US companies have acted, leaving only a very few insurers as the “last resort” for fossil fuels. In fact, last year saw the 35 biggest insurers on their actions on fossil fuels, declared that coal – the biggest single contributor to climate change – “is on the way to becoming uninsurable” as most coal projects cannot be financed, built or operated without insurance.

This added to the news that pension providers are focusing on net zero, with Aviva recently setting a 2050 net-zero target for its own autoenrolment (AE) default pension funds. It also called on the government to make all AE default funds set the same goal. With the rise in returns in ESG funds, then the momentum created by insurers backing out of coal should hasten now that ethical investment is squarely part of the news cycle.

Are we therefore on the cusp of change, as the economy recovers from the pandemic and looks to mitigate further risk from the much larger threats caused by climate change? Are we at the point where those in the construction industry work closer with their partners in construction insurance to improve the risk dynamics to educate any stakeholders whether they be builders or owners?

You can download the white paper in full at  www.cutt.ly/timefortimber_whitepaper

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Tanasote™ - Innovative Wood Preservation CaberWood MDF Pro is the perfect panel for "wow" handmade kitchens When John Penny of JP Joinery was asked by a client to design, build and install a "wow" bespoke kitchen, the one product element he knew he would be utilising was West Fraser's CaberWood MDF! "This was my first full, bespoke kitchen project" said John "and it presented me with some challenges". John's client is based in Kirkliston, a small town to the West of Edinburgh, and Covid lockdown restrictions added challenges to the installation. John sourced West Fraser's CaberWood MDF Pro MR from MGM Timber branches in Edinburgh and prepared the door and drawer fronts in his workshop. "I have tried a few brands of MDF but have found CaberWood MDF Pro MR to be the best choice for a perfect finish. I sprayed the MDF with a water-based paint which contains a full chemical hardener. This counters any fibre-raising which happens, to varying degrees with all MDF but, when experimenting with different brands, I have always found the West Fraser board to be the best".

Tanasote™ S40, Lonza Wood Protection’s new oil based wood preservative, has gained Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) authorisation for its use as a high performance treatment for the long term protection of heavy duty industrial timbers, such as utility poles, railway sleepers and hard landscaping timbers. Authorisation for Tanasote™ S40 has now been granted in Sweden, Belgium and Latvia. Further authorisations throughout Europe and the UK will follow shortly.

CaberWood MDF Pro MR is moisture resistant so particularly suitable for kitchens.

"I used a mix of 9, 18 and 22mm thick MDF for the variety of units - almost 40 in total - and, as always, found the boards easy to work with. The quality is always consistent which is important, especially on such a large project. It doesn't splinter or chip meaning there's very little waste. Compared with other brands I've used, CaberWood is really well priced too!" said John.

Developed as a hot oil/copper based technology with an innovative and powerful new co-biocide to protect against a wide spectrum of aggressive copper tolerant decay organisms, Tanasote™ S40 has an excellent industry fit as it can be used in existing or new creosote type plants and provide an assured service life of up to 40 years.

Whilst going through the intensive BPR authorisation process, Tanasote™ treated timbers have been placed in various industry relevant field trials around the world to prove its performance credentials.

The new preservative has also been used in full scale commercial treatment trials to fine tune its application and required protection levels across a wide range of timber species.

Needless to say, the client was delighted with the end result and John will be using CaberWood MDF on all his future kitchen projects!

Free samples of CaberWood products can be ordered here. For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit uk.westfraser.com

To find out more visit www.trusttanasote.com

SICK’s 2D Vision Camera has Deep Learning Onboard

DO WE LIKE TIMBER?

SICK has launched the SICK Inspector 621 2D vision camera with a pre-installed Deep Learning app onboard. With the SICK Intelligent Inspection, vision inspections that may have previously defied automation using traditional systems can be automated with high levels of reliability and availability.

Automation is therefore practical and affordable for tasks such as checking the orientation of timber profiles by recognising the annual ring structure.

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

Practical and Affordable AI Classification

planning your next marketing campaign drop me

Classifications can also be set up in a fraction the time it would take to set up complex inspections using traditional vision inspections.

an email at terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk or

Using the camera’s in-built image capture tool, users begin by collecting example images of their product in realistic production conditions. Guided step-by-step through the intuitive graphic interface, the system prompts them to sort the images into glasses. The pre-sorted images are uploaded to the SICK’s dStudio service where the image training process is completed by the neural network. The user can then apply further production images to evaluate and adjust the system.

call me on 01925 270093. Magazine advertising, e-marketing, web advertising and our new comprehensive Products & Services listings can all be found on our website www.timbermedia.co.uk

Once the user is satisfied, the neural network is downloaded to the Inspector P621 camera where it can begin to take decisions automatically with no further Cloud connection necessary. Results are output to the control system as sensor values and digital I/O. For more information about SICK Intelligent Inspection and the Inspector P621, please contact Andrea Hornby on 01727 831121 or email andrea.hornby@sick.co.uk.

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Five generations of timber trading

Our investments for engaged partnerships

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

Using timber tackles climate change

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

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

Contact Bergstraat 25 8511 Aalbeke Belgium vandecasteele.be

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

Committed to the cause

2021, whilst marking Timber Connection’s 30th year, also represents one of the most turbulent years of trading the timber industry has ever seen.

Throughout the years we have been dedicated to ensuring you have a supply line you can depend on and we stand by that today.

Timber Connection, a company you can rely on.

Better, connected. www.timberconnection.co.uk