Structural Timber Magazine Issue 04

STRUCTURAL TIMBER In association with:

MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

Building Solutions in Timber

Alumasc Ventilated System An engineered and stylish approach to newbuild timber frame housing. Read more P6-7

P22 Build with Carbon Overcoming the housing shortage, using offsite manufacture and tackling the problems of construction and carbon reduction.

P34 Panel Products Passivhaus, OSB and the reasons why flame retardant panels are proving essential to timber buildings.

Everything you need to know at: www.structuraltimber.co.uk

P58 Zero Carbon Hub Energy efficient homes shouldn’t overheat.

Assessing building temperatures for homebuilders planning new developments.

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

CONTENTS P4 Prepared for the Future Andrew Carpenter, Chief Executive of the STA, sees a positive period of growth ahead for the timber sector.

P6 COVER STORY – Alumasc Facade Systems The Alumasc Ventilated System offers an alternative approach to traditional build, particularly for newbuild timber framed housing. It provides engineered, stylish and commercially viable solutions that promote the use of timber, with the option of utilising modern offsite construction techniques.

The system is designed to provide a fully ventilated cavity, which keeps the timber substrate moisture-free and is compatible with both render and brick slip finishes.

P8 Timber Trends A quick round-up of some recent news stories from the timber and construction sectors that you may have missed including the official launch of the Confederation of Timber Industries.

P22 Build with Carbon: Don’t Emit It! Extoling the benefits of timber construction in overcoming both the industry’s long and short-term challenges are key to growing the market for wood building products.

David Hopkins, Executive Director at Wood for Good, explains more.

P26 CDM 2015 – Be Aware Updated health and safety legislation came into effect on 6 April with clients and construction firms facing ‘greater liability’ under the new rules. Construction law expert Charles Brien examines what to look out for.

P28 Timber & Growth Opportunities Construction is a sector where Britain has a strong competitive edge. Andrew Carpenter, Chief Executive of the STA, sees a massive opportunity to expand the use of timber via the Construction 2025 strategy.

P34 Why is Timber Rooted in the UK Market?

George Watson, Product Manager for SmartPly explains how innovative wood panel products can benefit UK housebuilders and developers and improve the building process.

P42 Eaves Details & Thermal Performance Today’s housebuilders are facing poor thermal performance at the eaves detail in the majority of trussed rafter roofs.

However, there is a solution that is well worth considering says Tim Tasker, Design Manager at Pasquill, the UK’s largest supplier of roof trusses.

P58 Will Future Homes Overheat?

With a modern mantra of Fabric First, building with timber is a key way to deliver energy efficient home. We hear from the Zero Carbon Hub on its project assessing building temperatures, the impact of climate change and what homebuilders should remember when planning new developments.

P64 Choosing the Right Timber Treatment The correct fire retardant is essential to the performance of wood under flame. We hear from Jacqui Hughes, Fire Retardants Manager at Arch Timber Protection and the Wood Protection Association (WPA) on what specifiers should do to ensure that fire retardant protected timbers are fully compliant.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER UNDER: twitter.com/STAtimber

P48 Opportunity & Risk Management In a still volatile economic climate, Paul Trigg, assistant Head of Risk Underwriting and timber specialist at trade credit insurer Euler Hermes, examines the risk outlook for the timber industry.

ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT: Bob Davis T: 01259 272140 E: bob.davis@structuraltimber.co.uk

P54 Fabric First Everytime The drive to achieve zero carbon homes is a challenge for the construction industry, but the advantages offered by timber construction will play a central role in achieving these targets. James Walker, Technical Consultant from the STA investigates.

BACK ISSUES VISIT: www.structuraltimber.co.uk/news/magazine

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT: Dave Smith T: 01743 290013 E: david.smith@radar-communications.co.uk

DISCLAIMER Structural Timber Magazine is produced and published by Radar Communications in association with the Structural Timber Association: ©Radar Communications Ltd. COVER: ALUMASC FACADE SYSTEMS

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE

IT’S NOT JUST WITHIN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY WHERE WE ARE MAKING PROGRESS – POLITICIANS AND OTHER DECISION MAKERS ARE ALSO STARTING TO RECOGNISE THE BENEFITS OF TIMBER.

Andrew Carpenter, Chief Executive of the Structural Timber Association, sees a positive period of growth ahead for the timber sector. brand from the UKTFA two years ago to well over

Whatever your political persuasion, the fact we

300 – at the time of the merger with UKSIPS we

have a stable Government for the next five years

had fewer than 200 members. But it’s not just

bodes well for continued growth in our sector,

the addition of SIPS, CLT and Glulam producers

especially as housing is very much top of their

that have swelled our membership but also the

agenda judging by the recent Queen’s Speech.

fact that housebuilders, housing associations, architects, engineers and others are seeing the

You can rest assured the STA will be working

value in being part of our organisation.

hard to promote the use of sustainable offsite building methods to provide not only more

I know our friends and colleagues from within

houses but better houses.

the BWF are experiencing a similar rise in

I’m delighted to have been asked to write the introductory piece once again for the Structural Timber magazine, which is fast becoming the ‘go to’ publication for anybody interested in the use of structural timber frame within the UK construction industry.

My involvement within the structural timber frame industry has been four and a half years

membership and activity and this can only

Andrew Carpenter,

auger well for the future of the sector. It’s

Chief Executive,

important that all construction industry related

Structural Timber Association

trade associations that use timber as their main

Email: andrew.carpenter@structuraltimber.co.uk

product source, such as ourselves, the BWF and

Website: www.structuraltimber.co.uk

TRA, work collaboratively to ensure the supply chain, which is represented by the likes of the TTF, is understood, providing solutions as appropriate.

Such needs are given to us by our customers and it is important that all members of the supply chain are end-user focused and understand who their ‘real’ customer is. For

in the making and in that time I’ve witnessed

our part, we are working hard to help our

a real ‘coming together’ of a sector that is

members get close to these end user clients

recognising that it is only by providing an

and understand their needs so that we may

integrated design, manufacture and erect

innovate on their behalf. It seems to be working

process, we may take advantage of the

because the latest set of figures provided by

opportunities that lie ahead of us.

Timbertrends suggest 2014 was the best performance, in terms of market share for

Within the Structural Timber Association we

timber frame sales in housing, in over 10 years

have grown our own membership since the re-

with a figure of 24.8%.

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PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

THE ALUMASC VENTILATED SYSTEM Providing the timber frame industry with innovative, modern building solutions Alumasc Facade Systems, a UK manufacturer of high performance external wall insulation and render systems has over 25 years’ experience in the construction industry. The company is now bringing to market a new facade system, specially designed for use on timber frame buildings.

Mark Gibbs, Technical Director for Alumasc Facades, has been the driving force behind the development of the Alumasc ventilated system.

He believes it will undoubtedly appeal to those involved with larger housing schemes, but will also attract interest from the self-build market.

The House Build Market New build projects in the UK are on the increase, especially in the domestic market. In 2014 circa 140,000 new properties were built and this is expected to rise to 177,000 properties in 2015 and 185,000 by 2019. There is a concern however, as to whether the construction industry can meet this increase in activity. This provides the timber frame industry with a major opportunity to deliver alternative methods of construction. Around 70% of new homes in Scotland are timber framed and, although

System Solution for Timber Frame

progress is comparatively much slower, this type of build is starting to happen to a greater degree

The Alumasc Ventilated System offers an

elsewhere in the UK.

alternative approach to traditional build, particularly for new build timber framed housing.

It provides engineered, stylish and commercially viable solutions that promote the use of timber, with the option of utilising modern offsite construction techniques. The system is designed to provide a fully ventilated cavity, which keeps the timber substrate moisture-free and is compatible with both render and brick slip finishes.

Engineered Design Engineered to provide the facade and timber substrate of the building with a continual flow of air, the Alumasc Ventilated System adheres to the requirements and guidelines of both the NHBC and TRADA for timber framed construction, namely the need for ventilation (a minimum of 15mm ventilated cavity for NHBC; 25mm for TRADA). This is achieved through cleverly engineered components and robust system detailing, ensuring all ventilation requirements are accommodated.

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THE ALUMASC VENTILATED SYSTEM

CO Approvals & Performance The Alumasc Ventilated System has been

VE

RS

TO

rigorously tested, resulting in compliance with all UK building regulations (Scotland, Northern Ireland, England and Wales) and it became British Board of Agrément certified in May 2015 with an A2 resistance to fire rating. It meets all UK ventilation standards for timber framed buildings.

Aesthetics A choice of final finish is available, addressing the architectural diversity of the UK and offering the aesthetics that architects, designers and housebuilders are looking for. Any brick in the marketplace can be replicated via the use of lightweight acrylic brick slips. The system is also approved for use with high performance through-coloured silicone renders, along with an extensive range of dashing renders.

Offsite Manufacture The Alumasc Ventilated System has been designed with offsite manufacture in mind which

Offsite Manufacture in Practice

has been a growing feature in construction for over a decade. It offers specifiers post and beam, open panel, closed panel, volumetric,

Panmure Development, Glasgow

modular and SIP solutions. Offsite manufacture

The Panmure Street development in Glasgow demonstrates the benefits and versatility of using the

means the system is not affected by

Alumasc Ventilated System. On this scheme a closed panel, fully offsite manufactured solution was

environmental conditions, which regularly impact

delivered, with only a small element of external on-site fabric work required. The key driver for the

UK build programmes.

specification of the system was its ability to replicate traditional construction design yet be adaptable for the closed panel production line. CCG, who have recently invested over £12m in a state-of-the-art

It is quick and easy to install and the offsite

factory, were the offsite manufacturer and main contractor on the scheme.

method of construction also ensures sites are kept in good order, with the majority of building materials required being stored and assembled in a factory environment. Modern methods of construction improve quality, efficiency and accuracy in the building and build programme, making them ideal for BIM.

Paul Muldoon, CCG Contracts Manager said: “The Panmure project is one of the largest projects using closed panel technology to be manufactured offsite in our new factory. Due to the design of the Alumasc Ventilated System we were able to apply 75% of the brick slips offsite therefore the usual challenges such as transport logistics, site access problems and weather did not impact on the project.”

Panmure Street includes numerous different building types, five storey apartment blocks, two and threebedroom town houses and even an eight-storey block of flats. The project has been a great success, providing benefits such as reduced install time and improved on-site health and safety to name but a few.

Alastair Wylie, Group Chairman & Chief Executive of CCG comments: “The Alumasc Ventilated System for timber frame provides a significant advancement in the concept of Modern Methods of Construction and furthermore relieves the pressure upon skill and material shortages.”

For more information, contact Alumasc Facade Systems E: facades@alumasc-exteriors.co.uk T: +44 (0) 3335 771 700 W: www.alumascfacades.co.uk

THE ALUMASC VENTILATED SYSTEM

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RY

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

TIMBER TRENDS BM TRADA CHANGES HANDS and certification market. It provides accredited certification services to all major management system standards, chain of custody and sustainable supply chain certification, product and service certification and CE marking. It also provides a range of building materials and system testing. Exova and BM TRADA have complementary offerings through internationallyrecognised certification schemes, all of which will be retained.

John Willox, Managing Director of Building Products and Certification with Exova, said: “The acquisition of BM TRADA extends our existing certification services, creating a truly global offering and broadening our support to customers in new growth sectors and markets worldwide.

The acquisition also expands our range of Exova Group plc, the global testing, calibration

4,400 and also extends the company’s range

building products testing and extends our global

and advisory services provider, has acquired BM

of certification services and markets served.

reach into eight new countries. I believe we are

TRADA, the international provider of certification

The move will also expand both capacity and

bringing together two great companies who will

schemes and building products testing services

capabilities in building products testing.

now work as one to provide value-added services

for a consideration of approximately £22 million.

BM TRADA generates revenues in excess

to our customers worldwide.”

of £20 million.

The acquisition adds around 340 personnel operating in 16 countries, bringing Exova’s

BM TRADA has built a strong reputation over

network of specialists worldwide to over

80 years operating in the testing, inspection

Source: www.exova.com | www.bmtrada.com

The Global Timber Forum (GTF) website has

timber sector with decision makers and the wider

it also provides a live, open access Forum facility.

been launched. The website is a source of news

marketplace. News is categorised under five key

Here site users can post opinions, raise key

and timber sector information and data and also

themes but all broadly focus on developments

issues, highlight and discuss important new

an international networking and communications

and initiatives that highlight the economic, social

developments and ask questions. Others can then

platform, through which people across the

and environmental benefits of a sustainable and

respond and provide answers to queries. The goal

timber and associated industries can engage

legal timber and forestry sector.

is to provide a channel for a global timber industry

GLOBAL TIMBER FORUM WEBSITE LIVE

with others worldwide.

dialogue and exchange.

The GTF website also includes an industry

It provides a vehicle for sharing best practice and

information section, providing accessible industry

ideas. In association with others, its goal is also

background information, guidance and market

to help strengthen the voice of the international

data. In a major innovation for the timber sector

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TIMBER TRENDS

Source: www.gtf-info.com

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

TIMBER TRENDS SCANDINAVIAN STYLE AT THE CORNISH COAST Seven contemporary holiday apartments have been unveiled at The Point at Polzeath.

Laurence Associates have fused modern luxury with ecological design and materials to create a premier destination for the environmentally-conscious traveller.

The apartments consist of four threebedroom and three two-bedroom luxury units, located 250 metres from The Point’s restaurant and health club. The building itself

sits within a hill ridge, complete with a sedum roof and Kebony cladding, discretely blending with the surroundings. High quality building materials, including the alternative to tropical hardwood, Kebony, are used for the cladding and soffits and the stone walls are locally sourced. In addition, ground source heat pumps have been installed, which supply hot water and underfloor heating throughout.

The apartments at The Point, designed to blend in and complement the surrounding

landscape, makes the most of a spectacular setting with minimal environmental impact, both in construction and maintenance.

The Kebony cladding is exceptionally hard-wearing, tried and tested in the harsh Norwegian climates the material is perfectly placed to resist the sea winds. Over time the material will develop a beautiful silver patina, without the need for expensive and environmentally damaging treatments.

Jason Pledger, Owner and Design Director at Laurence Associates said: “We were pleased to have the opportunity to further champion eco-centric development in line with our company values. It was of paramount importance to source materials that would enhance our building design. We chose Kebony, a versatile, natural and sustainable material that not only complements the building but blends sensitively into the exposed wider landscape and continues to improve over time.”

Source: www.thepointatpolzeath.co.uk

FINANCIAL BOOST FOR JAMES DONALDSON Family-owned Fife timber specialist James

existing operating, capital expenditure and

business. This was achieved by the pragmatic

Donaldson & Sons Group has agreed a £16

growth plans of the group with a mix of term,

and commercial approach taken by all parties.”

million refinancing deal with RBS. The Markinch-

capital expenditure revolving credit and working

based group is the UK’s leading independent

capital facilities.

processor, manufacturer and distributor of timber and engineered timber products.

Chaired by fifth generation family member Neil Donaldson, the Donaldson Group employs more

Euan Cluness, Partner with Donaldson’s

than 650 staff across 26 business premises

advisers HBJ Gateley, said: “The move to RBS as

across the UK. Last year the group’s turnover

Its rebanking relationship with RBS covers

funder was a significant transaction for James

was up 11.2% at £117.1m and pre-tax profit

strategic funding services across the JDS Group

Donaldson & Sons. It will provide them with

was up £300,000 to almost £2.5m.

– James Donaldson Timber Ltd, Donaldson

a fantastic platform to fund future expansion.

Timber Engineering Ltd, MGM Timber (Scotland)

It was of key importance to the Donaldson

Ltd, and James Donaldson Insulation Ltd. RBS

Group that the transfer was undertaken on time

will provide a debt structure to support the

and with the minimum of disruption to their

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TIMBER TRENDS

Source: www.donaldson-timber.co.uk/news.aspx

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

SCOTTISH CLT PLANT ON THE HORIZON

THE £100M TURNOVER CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT FIRM CCG HAS REVEALED PLANS TO EXPAND ITS OFFSITE

A report in The Herald in Scotland has revealed a ‘bold’ property move by CCG that is intended to pave the way for an innovative new manufacturing plant which would give Scotland a UK first.

MANUFACTURING EXPERTISE INTO CROSS

The company’s existing offsite facilities at

believe that this aspect is very important to the

architects and engineers have hoped to see.

Glasgow East Investment Park has a 130,000

industry and will continue to be high on the

The next step will hopefully be the integration

sq ft operation capable of producing up to

national agenda. I know of no other firm that

of homegrown timber into the facility, which

3000 closed timber panel buildings a year,

can build to the same extent offsite as we can

our research has shown is technically feasible

often complete with features such as insulation,

– in a housing form – in the UK. We already

once supply chain issues are resolved. And if

doors, windows and external claddings in brick

have our manufacturing knowledge, we’ve

that happens it will be a significant boost to the

or render. CCG has been working on the idea

done our homework, and the statistics all point

Scottish and UK economies.”

for three years, and, with support from Scottish

in the right direction.

Enterprise, initiated a project with Napier

LAMINATED TIMBER (CLT). IT HAS BOUGHT A NEW 122,000 SQ FT PRODUCTION PLANT CALLED TITAN AT EUROCENTRAL FOR £4.15M, WHERE IT IS PROPOSING TO ESTABLISH A FACTORY MANUFACTURING CLT.

Wylie acknowledges that investing £4m in Titan

University to test the market, future potential,

“People who have researched this for us have

is a big move for this private-funded business,

competition and feasibility, which confirmed

told us there is a tremendous demand for this

but remains confident enough to have circulated

there was a robust case for this concept.

product, with national UK companies receptive

the footprint and autocad drawings of his newly-

to modern methods of construction like this,

acquired building around five CLT equipment

It then took some homegrown timber, machined

reducing wastage and inefficiency and helping

manufacturers and installers in Germany. The

and dried to the required moisture content, over

to address weather-related issues.”

custom-built equipment, with lines capable

to Germany for manufacture into test panels by

of adding higher value elements such as

a company called Derix. These were delivered to

The work at Napier was led by Dr Robert

external finishes, would take nine months to

a technical institute in Graz in Austria and tested

Hairstains, Head of the Centre for Offsite

manufacture, and perhaps the same again

for viability.

Construction & Innovative Structures (COCIS)

before it could be operational.

and was co-funded by Scottish Enterprise.

Chairman and Chief Executive Alastair Wylie,

He said: “Currently the UK primarily imports

Source: www.heraldscotland.com/business/

said: “Timber is a favourable product in terms

CLT and this would be the first large-scale

business-extra/company-has-ambition-on-

of carbon footprint in construction, and we

CLT production facility in the UK, which many

titanic-scale.1432821079

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SCOT TISH CLT PLANT ON THE HORIZON

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

CONFEDERATION OF TIMBER INDUSTRIES LAUNCHED After several months of development, the new and inclusive Confederation of Timber Industries (CTI) was launched to an enthusiastic audience at the Building Centre in London on 10 June.

Dirk Vennix

CTI will focus on a number of key projects

increase. Consequently CTI will ensure

betting businesses within a highly regulated and

to influence the development and growth

that timber leads the way in 21st Century

fast paced environment. He was the sector’s

of construction, housing and interiors using

Construction and related industries.

focal point for key stakeholders in governments,

wood-based products and growing the UK’s low

parliaments and the media.

carbon economy. The CTI will act as an umbrella

New CTI chief executive Dirk Vennix added:

organisation, representing the timber supply

“I am delighted to take on this fantastic

Prior to ABB, Dirk Vennix was Director of

chain from forest to end of life recycling and

opportunity to make a difference to the timber

Communications for the Tobacco Manufacturers’

energy recovery.

supply chain sector. I want to grow the various

Association (TMA), Director of Campaign

links in the supply chain and make wood the

Operations for Enterprise Insight, Centrica plc,

Dr Peter Bonfield CEO of BRE, launched CTI by

product of choice. I am looking forward to

and Liverpool John Moores University where he

saying: “This Industry has needed a stronger

talking to all stakeholders in the timber supply

was Head of Marketing and Communications.

joined up voice for a very long time. This is

chain and building more relationships with a

Dirk started his career as a journalist and is

a great moment for the timber industries to

wide range of important partners. The CTI is

a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public

demonstrate their combined strength and

committed to providing key deliverables in the

Relations (FCIPR). Dirk gained an MBA with

showcase the Industry. The industry needs to

areas of growth, skills and sustainability by

distinction at the University of Bradford in 2000.

move to the top of the agenda with specifiers,

2016. It will be a long journey but I am ready

designers and constructors and becomes a first

for this challenge. CTI vision is all about growing

For more information visit:

choice construction product. This is an historic

the supply chain and the market, nurturing the

www.cti-timber.org

day, which we should all embrace to make CTI

skills in education and the sustainability agenda.

the success we all need it to be.”

Wood needs to become the product of first choice. We can achieve this target together.”

The timber supply chain contributes substantially to the UK Construction and Manufacturing

Dutch by birth, Dirk has substantial experience

Industries, providing jobs across the skills

in communications and stakeholder

spectrum and adding value of c£20bn to the UK

engagement; sponsorship creation and

economy. The research, science, development

fundraising, working for more than 20 years

and employment of timber demands a highly

in the private and not-for-profit sectors in

skilled and knowledgeable workforce across the

the UK. He recently led the Association of

entire supply chain. Pressure for skills across

British Bookmakers (ABB), a major trade body

the industry will grow in line with population

promoting the interests of large and small

CONFEDERATION OF TIMBER INDUSTRIES LAUNCHED

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

TIMBER TRENDS FSC LAUNCHES NEW GLOBAL CONSUMER BRAND The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has

Carstensen, Director General of FSC.

“In addition, with markets opening up in

launched a new global brand – Forests For

“Forests are so much more than trees and

Asia, Latin America and Africa, it was time go

All Forever – intended to directly target

timber – they are reservoirs for clean drinking

beyond outreach to producers and retailers.

consumers.

water, protection for animals and endangered

Supply grows in response to demand, and

wildlife, and home to indigenous peoples

those at the end of the supply chain –

The new strapline – Forests For All Forever

and communities. Our principles and criteria

consumers – are vital to ensuring companies

– is intended to reaffirm the FSC vision

have always reflected our determination to

seek out sustainable solutions and engage in

of saving the world’s forests for future

protect forests and their inhabitants. Now,

responsible businesses practices.”

generations, while the visual identity, which

our commitment will also be expressed in our

includes the animals and people who live

visual identity, and provide a clearer message

and interact in forests, and reinforces the

to consumers of what it means when they buy

all-encompassing approach FSC takes to

an FSC-certified product.

Source: www.fsc-uk.org

sustainable forest management.

“The success of FSC has always depended on consumer awareness and demand for FSC-certified products, and we have relied on our partners and certificate holders to spread the message of FSC on our behalf. However, it became clear that we needed to provide our partners with tools that could inspire their customers to choose FSC – an identity that would connect with consumers and be memorable in the retail space,” said Kim

WOOD FOR GOOD SHORTLISTED FOR SUSTAINABILITY AWARD Wood for Good’s Build With Carbon: Don’t Emit It! campaign, which highlighted the sustainability merits of timber housebuilding in a series of animations created in partnership with Carbon Visuals, has been shortlisted in the 2Degrees Network Champions Awards.

The awards aim to showcase the best in innovation and pushing the boundaries of sustainable business. Following its nomination and votes by 2Degrees members, Wood for Good’s campaign has been shortlisted in the External Communications category. The final judging panel’s decision will be announced at

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2Degree’s ceremony on 15 July at The Porchester Hall in London.

Build With Carbon: Don’t Emit It!, which launched in September last year, aimed to communicate the increased use of timber in construction as a crucial way of making the UK more sustainable.

This was a natural progression from the launch of the industry’s Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) database, which showed that the UK could capture and store nearly four million tonnes of CO2 every year if annual housing targets were met using timber-frame construction.

The videos were created to engage with a broad audience – allowing WfG to promote the messaging of timber’s sustainability more easily to those outside of the industry. This saw an excellent response for the videos both in the timber industries and in adjacent sectors like construction and housing with news and opinion articles in print and online publications with a combined reach of 282,579 readers.

(See page 22 for a more in-depth article from Wood for Good’s David Hopkins.)

Source: www.woodforgood.com

TIMBER TRENDS

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

TIMBER TRENDS METSÄWOOD DELIVERS PLAN B

Focusing on the intricacies of timber in construction, MetsäWood has launched its new ‘Plan B’ microsite, looking at the impact wood can have when used as part of a large scale structure.

The design and construction plan for a wooden version of the Empire State Building was made

by Canadian architect Michael Green and his firm MGA with Equilibrium Consulting and Metsä Wood’s own material and construction experts.

Starting with the Colosseum as its first Plan B ‘case study’, MetsäWood explores how timber could have been used in order to deliver a structure that is both architecturally sound and aesthetically appealing. Working with Antti Laiho from Helin & Co. Architects in order to create a visualisation of how the structure would look if timber were used, MetsäWood has created the new microsite to provide a complete overview of the project, from the initial concept and design phase through to the final 3D model.

The iconic Empire State Building was a representative of innovations in structural steel in the 1920’s. For nearly 40 years, it was the tallest building in the world. Michael commented: “While many things have changed in 85 years, architects still strive to give form to new ideas about structure, energy consumption and climate change, amongst other things. For these reasons, the most iconic building of the modern age - the Empire State Building - was chosen for this Plan B case and was designed using Metsä Wood’s Kerto® LVL engineered wood as the main material from floors to column spacing.”

The challenge was to redesign a recognisable yet modern version of the original building, using wood as the main material. Emphasis was on reducing construction time, material waste and costs using prefabricated modular elements. As a result, it was decided that MetsäWood’s Kerto LVL (laminated veneer lumber) was ideal for the beams and columns due to its incredible loadbearing strength.

Michael Green, the world-renowned architect and advocate of wood use in modern constructions, has reimagined the Empire State Building in an all-together more timber form as part of its ongoing ‘Plan B’ campaign.

“I believe that the future belongs to tall wooden buildings. Significant advancements in engineered wood and mass timber products have created a new vision for what is possible for safe, tall, urban wood buildings. The challenge now is to change society’s perception of what’s possible.”

For more on Plan B flick to Page 74.

To submit your own ‘Plan B’ suggestion visit: www.metsawood.com/planb

ASSESSING THE FUTURE-PROOF HOME A leading building control service for England and Wales recently inspected

Trivselhus doors and windows are triple-glazed, argon-filled units that are

the eco-credentials of what is dubbed the ‘Future-Proof Home’. Quadrant

pre-fitted in the factory and arrive on site within the completed wall panel.

Building Control inspected an exclusive development of five Trivselhus houses

Service conduits for electricity and plumbing are included in the build at the

in the rural village of Meopham in the heart of Kent. The two and four-bedroom

factory stage so that no holes need to be made in the walls or floors on site.

detached houses in Meopham’s Windmill Close were built by small-scale

But what makes the Trivselhus (roughly translated as ‘house of wellbeing’) so

niche housebuilder Cedar Rydal in partnership with Swedish timber building

‘future-proof’ is the thermal insulation, according to Joe Campion, Director at

company Trivselhus.

Quadrant Building Control. “There is 240mm of mineral wool insulation built into the closed panels of the house at factory stage, which provides a highly

Paul Knight, Director at Quadrant Building Control, said: “The thermal

insulated layer.”

standards that these houses have been built to exceed the current standards required by the building regulations and the recommended standards for zero-carbon homes that the Government committed to introducing in future changes to the building regulations.”

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Source: www.quadrantai.co.uk

TIMBER TRENDS

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

BSW TIMBER INCREASE UK APPRENTICESHIPS

BSW Timber has announced that it will support 21 apprentices across Scotland and the rest of the UK over the next year as part of its efforts to support education, employment and skills development in the industry. BSW has offered apprenticeships across Scotland and the UK since 2008, in disciplines including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and saw doctor engineering.

Tony Lockey, Group Training Officer for BSW Timber, said: “At BSW, we’re in a fantastic position to be able to support increasing numbers of apprentices, particularly at our flagship sawmill in Fort William. By supporting a range of disciplines and a number of apprentices at different stages of their career, we’re able to contribute towards a bridging of the skills gap which will be beneficial to our young people, to ourselves as a firm and to the wider industry.

“This year, we’ll be supporting the most apprentices we’ve ever had at BSW and in the coming years we hope to continue to increase the number of apprentices across our business as well as to diversify the range of disciplines that we’re able to support.”

Source: www.bwf.org.uk

NEW CLADDING & DECKING OPTIONS HIT UK International Timber has signed a deal with Dura Composites to become the exclusive UK importer of its fast-growing composite timber decking and cladding product ranges.

The addition of the highly durable and eco-friendly Dura Composites range sees International Timber expand its portfolio of products to appeal to new audiences in the construction, architectural and leisure sectors.

Commenting on the deal, Steve Rogers, Product Director at International Timber, said: “As a business we are looking to be at the forefront of product development and we are confident that the Dura Composites product line will complement our existing offer resonating with our existing customers as well as helping to open up opportunities with new ones. Dura ticks the box.”

Stuart Burns, director of Dura Composites, added: “This exciting agreement with International Timber is a logical step forward for both companies and we are anticipating high demand as more clients are exposed to the new technology. Composite decking and cladding products have seen a phenomenal growth in popularity over the past five years, because they offer the aesthetic beauty of timber, coupled with the benefits of high technology, easy installation and low maintenance.

“We are immensely proud of the high quality products we offer and International Timber is recognised for upholding the highest quality standards in all its operations, so we are therefore delighted to be partnering with them to offer the Dura Composites range to a wider audience of timber merchants, contractors and end users.”

Source: www.internationaltimber.com

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

TIMBER TRENDS NATIONAL STRUCTURAL TIMBER SPECIFICATION ON THE HORIZON TRADA Technology has published an update on the much-awaited National Structural Timber Specification (NSTS) – due to be published in the autumn. It will mark a significant step forward for the timber industry in terms of leveling the playing field against competitive materials.

TRADA say: “Both the steel and concrete industries already have National Specification publications – in fact steel’s ‘black book’ is already into its fifth edition – but it’s fair to say the timber industry has been somewhat backward in this area. The publication of the NSTS is not a small step forward but rather a giant leap. The brainchild of TRADA, it will finally level the playing field with timber’s competitive set while also – for the first time – giving the construction industry a set of best practice guidelines against which timber buildings can literally be erected.”

“New developments in engineered timber and computer controlled machining, mean that it is now the ideal material for rapid prefabrication and erection,” said Andrew Lawrence, Arup’s Timber Specialist. “A standard UK timber

specification is a vital part of helping timber realise its potential as a standard construction material for larger buildings alongside steel and concrete.”

Working with industry specialists, TRADA has developed a recognised comprehensive specification that covers information exchange, materials, fabrication, erection, protection and quality assurance. The NSTS focuses on structural uses of kiln-dried softwoods for use in three main areas – light-frame construction – usually known as ‘timber frame’. Heavyframe construction – typically glulam and other engineered timber post and beam structures – as well as panel construction (typically crosslaminated timber and SIPS).

For each of these areas methods of erection and tolerances are defined. It is conceivable that the specifier might choose to adopt a ‘different’ set of guidance and tolerances from that normally expected. The design of NSTS has deliberately followed Eurocode 5. There has been no provision for BS 5268 because it has been withdrawn. In future editions, it will be possible to create further modules to cover non-structural

uses of timber – joinery, decking, cladding and flooring. Another area for future consideration will be hybrid construction (where timber is combined structurally with other materials).

The development and quality of the National Structural Timber Specification is supported by a team of expert TRADA members and industry experts from Bowmer and Kirkland, Kingspan, Arup and BM TRADA. Peer reviewing was initially provided by representatives from Smith and Wallwork, BAM Construct UK, Ramboll, Waugh Thistleton and NHBC. The NSTS is currently undergoing public consultation and is expected to be published in time to launch at Timber Expo in October.

This isn’t just a box-ticking exercise either, as Rupert Scott, TRADA’s Membership Manager, explains: “The consultation was opened up to all TRADA members and we’re delighted that nearly 100 individuals, with a passion for building with wood, have volunteered to provide valuable feedback.”

Source: www.trada.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF Robin Dodyk, Technical Director of Oregon Timber Frame, gave the first in a new series of timber industry guest lectures at Edinburgh Napier University on the challenges facing the timber frame industry. His lecture on Timber frame; a potted history covered everything from the history of timber frame and timber housing worldwide, right through to the benefits that industry can achieve by R&D partnering with academic experts.

Construction costs in London are the second highest in the world and are rising at 5% a year according to a new global report, with a risk of further price escalation as demand levels outstrip capacity in key trades. The International Construction Market

18

Survey 2015 found that at £2,283 per m2, London’s average construction cost is second only to New York’s – which at £2,372 per m2 are the highest in the world.

An Australian study shows that timber buildings can be up to 10-15% cheaper to construct than traditional designs in several different building types. The study, Commercial Building Costing Case Studies – Traditional Design versus Timber Project, found that when compared to concrete and steel-framed examples, timber saved 12.4% for a commercial office building, 13.9% for an aged care facility, 2.2% for an apartment building and 9.4% for a portal-framed industrial shed.

TIMBER TRENDS

New Wood Information Sheets from TRADA examine structural insulated panels (SIPs) manufacture, properties and benefits. SIPs are prefabricated, highperformance, lightweight building panels, consisting of two high density facings, typically orientated strand board (OSB), which are bonded on both sides of a low density, cellular foam core. Wood Information Sheet SIPS: introduction for specifiers and Wood Information Sheet SIPS: structural principles and design are available for members only.

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Not always easier from the inside

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The A. Proctor Group always strive to provide construction professionals with alternative, cost-effective and easier to install solutions and the introduction of their air barrier systems are exactly that.

With over 10 years’ experience of providing the harshest climates (both hot and cold) in North America the group is promoting the external application of the airtightness strategy membranes in the UK. The UK has up until now assumed that sealing the building from the inside was the best route to meeting increasing airtightness regulations, in the main this has included sealing up the

vapour control layer or vapour barrier as some refer it to. This can make sense from a building physics point of view and help reduce condensation but the actual application can be fraught with problems when striving for low levels of airtightness. Some building designers, especially domestic, simply do not want low levels of airtightness (sub 3) as this would require a ventilation system which incurs additional costs, maintenance issues and one that most homeowners would be resistant to. However most commercial buildings will have adequate mechanical ventilation systems that alleviates these resistance factors to low airtightness so would benefit greatly from striving for the lowest possible airtightness results meaning lower fuel consumption as less cold air infiltration and warm air escaping.

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Rainscreen Construction From the earliest examples of weather boarded barns to modern skyscrapers, rainscreen construction has been part of the built environment for hundreds of years. Today, with increasing energy performance requirements, and intense competition between designers to produce unique, aesthetically innovative and eye catching structures, the flexibility offered by rainscreen systems is more important than ever.

In a typical rainscreen curtain wall construction, the insulation is placed continuously over the

the specification and installation of this barrier remains critical during design and construction.

While such construction is not widely used in the UK, the A. Proctor Group’s Wraptite external air barrier system provides a simple and robust solution that can be easily incorporated into existing site practices.

Wraptite-SA, fully vapour-permeable selfadhesive air barrier, is available either as a membrane or as a fully permeable tape, with a unique vapour permeable adhesive backing.

This allows a simple and fast installation procedure, with the fully adhered membrane sealing to all common substrate materials. structural frame and overlayed with a secondary weatherproof layer. The outer cladding is then fixed on rail systems, giving a drained and ventilated cavity between the insulated structure and the façade. This gives several advantages, not least fully insulating the frame and substantially reducing cold bridging compared to in-frame insulation. This setup also allows for increased design flexibility, as the outer leaf can be lighter than traditional brick facades, and can therefore adopt more unusual layouts and configurations that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional façade materials. It is also comparatively easy to retrofit insulated rainscreen systems to existing structures, giving a simple path to improving both appearance and energy efficiency.

In most rainscreen systems, the outer cladding panels are not fully wind and watertight, making the performance of the secondary weather protection membrane more critical than with brick or blockwork outer leaves.

While most such membranes have adequate air barrier performance, they are heavily dependent on quality of installation to ensure the overall air leakage rate targets are met.

Failure to meet the specified targets can cause substantial increases in the energy performance of the completed building, and this ‘performance gap’ has been identified in many studies of predicted vs actual building energy use.

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In tape form, Wraptite-SA can be used to seal panel joints in airtight substrates such as OSB, or used to seal penetrations from services or structural elements. Its excellent adhesion characteristics also make it an effective method of jointing conventional air barrier membranes, thus maintaining a high vapour permeability envelope across the entire building.

For nearly 30 years, the A. Proctor Group have been at the forefront of construction membrane technology. From the revolutionary air/vapour permeable Roofshield underlay to the low emissivity Reflectashield timber frame breather membrane, the A. Proctor Group continually work with suppliers and research organisations to ensure our products meet the most advanced technical requirements while providing exceptional value for our customers.

For product information, case studies, and technical documentation, please visit us at: www.proctorgroup.com or follow us on twitter @proctorgroup

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

BUILD WITH CARBON: DON’T EMIT IT! Extolling the benefits of timber construction in overcoming both the industry’s long and short-term challenges are key to growing the market for wood building products. David Hopkins, Executive Director at Wood for Good, explains why its Build with Carbon campaign hits home the message for the industry and beyond.

The UK is facing a significant shortfall in

delivering new buildings for many years and

way of incorporating this at source.

homes and there’s ongoing pressure on the

this has to some degree been seen in sectors

Despite this, the majority of UK housing

industry to ensure that new buildings are

like housebuilding where offsite methods using

continues to be delivered through carbon-

delivered quickly to meet ambitious targets

timber have been on the rise. Pre-engineered

intensive building methods and the built

while producing buildings that are up to

timber products allow a building to be made

environment remains the nation’s largest

scratch when it comes to long-term energy

weathertight and water resistant far quicker,

emitter of CO2. Communicating the wider

efficiency. In addition, the UN Climate Change

allowing wiring and other interior work to be

environmental benefits without hard data to

Conference in Paris later this year will enforce

carried out almost immediately.

back it up has limited a widespread drive by the construction industry to make wood the

targets for reductions of emissions in the UK.

primary building material of choice.

With the built environment the largest carbon

Offsite construction can lead to a reduction of

emitter in the UK – there’s an additional

build times by up to 14 weeks in some cases

impetus for the sector to be more sustainable.

– at a time when there’s significant pressure to

Our ‘Build With Carbon: Don’t Emit It!’

deliver new homes quickly, this can’t be ignored.

campaign aimed to change this. We harnessed

It’s a concern that, when unveiling the new

Timber also differs from other materials when

LCA information to put forward a case for

housing zones in March, the Chancellor made

it comes to prefabrication – its high precision

wood over a series of three animations and we

no reference to environmental sustainability

finish make for a higher quality end product.

were able to show the level of carbon stored at

and there’s a risk that sustainable construction

In addition, with the impending Energy

each stage of the supply chain – from growth

could fall off the radar in an attempt to deliver

Performance Certification (EPC) rating

through to construction.

homes quickly. The fact is, modern methods of

deadline in April 2018, set to benchmark how

timber construction mean speed, low cost and

commercially viable a building is, timber’s

The first video showed that, over the course

high environmental performance needn’t be

inherent energy efficiency is becoming

of 40 years, a typical tree in the UK will have

mutually exclusive.

increasingly valuable. With any building lower

sequestered 742 kg of CO2, the second scaled

than grade D on the EPC scale, from A-F,

this up to a hectare of forest – 483 tonnes of

Obviously, many within the timber industry have

no longer allowed to be rented, using wood

CO2. The third looked at new homes as CO2

recognised the merits of using the material in

products provides a cost-effective and natural

stores – with one home storing 19 tonnes.

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BUILD WITH CARBON: DON’T EMIT IT!

Created by Modcell, the Balehaus project is the UK’s first commercially available straw eco home.

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

Our aim was to demonstrate that developers

harvested before the timber product reaches

harvesting timber and planting more trees

would be essentially building with blocks of

its end of life. This provides for an emissions

would then leading to a continual storage of

carbon – turning this into an appreciating

reduction and storage mechanism – with more

CO2 by the built environment, a situation which

asset, ie the property, rather a harmful gas in

carbon emissions being added to the store in

could aid the UK in its drive to meet climate

the atmosphere. This allowed us to show that

each harvesting and each new building.

change targets.

new homes delivered each year – the UK could

The Balehaus project, the UK’s first commercially

As part of our work we’re keen for the entire

store nearly 4 million tonnes of CO2 every year.

available straw eco homes created by ModCell,

industry to come forth with more case studies

is a good example of this in action. The method

of timber meeting construction’s challenges

The videos highlighted that using timber in long-

used prefabricated glulam timber frame filled

of speed, energy efficiency and sustainability.

life applications in the construction sector would

with straw under pressure with lime render to

The Build with Carbon campaign is a stepping

mean that more trees will be planted, grown and

make an entirely natural and thick walling for

stone to further campaigns which could see

the homes – resulting in a level of insulation that

timber at the heart of a new era of sustainable

could reduce fuel bills by up to 90 per cent and

construction while being the solution to

19 tonnes of carbon dioxide stored in the straw

delivering much needed homes up and down

panels used.

the country.

Timber construction can be the solution to

For more information on Wood for Good and

many of the challenges facing the delivery of

to view the Build with Carbon video visit:

new homes, it’s a preferred material for offsite

www.woodforgood.com

if annual housing targets were met – 200,000

construction – a method which can dramatically reduce build times, it has inherent thermal efficiency and it could see the UK capture and store a significant body of CO2 annually.

Communicating this to the sector and policy makers is key in driving up demand for timber products in the UK and therefore increased commercial forestry. This cyclical process of

BUILD WITH CARBON: DON’T EMIT IT!

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

CDM 2015 – BE AWARE Updated health and safety legislation came into effect on 6 April with clients and construction firms facing ‘greater liability’ under the new rules. Construction law expert Charles Brien from top-50, national law firm HBJ Gateley explains what to look out for. health and safety standards, face increased

When a client delegates these responsibilities

liability and risk of legal action following the

to a professional team or contractor, it must

introduction of new legislation.

ensure that such parties have the skill, training, expertise and capacity to carry these out. If the

The regulations are designed to reduce

wrong party is appointed, responsibility may

accidents on construction sites. Now,

fall on the client. Also the client is required to

construction clients are required by law to meet

appoint a ‘principal designer’. The principal

a number of requirements in ensuring health

designer will plan, manage and monitor the

and safety on construction projects. They must:

pre-construction phase and co-ordinate matters relating to health and safety.

• Assemble a competent professional team

and ensure that the roles of team members

This effectively abolishes the previous role of

are clear

CDM Co-ordinator. Principal designer is a new role with additional responsibilities to that of

The new Construction (Design and Management)

• Ensure sufficient time and resources are

CDM Co-ordinator, and holders must come

allocated at appropriate stages of the

from the ranks of designers. This means that

project to adequately and appropriately deal

existing CDM Co-ordinators will not necessarily

with health and safety issues

be suitable for the role, and firms will need to

Regulations 2015, are intended to reduce the

• Ensure that there are effective mechanisms

number of accidents on construction sites, place

in place for project team communication and

greater responsibility on clients for the conduct

that they work.

make sure that they manage the transfer from an existing CDM Co-ordinator to a new principal designer correctly.

and decisions of the people they employ to oversee health and safety. Construction clients,

• Provide suitable welfare facilities for the

For example, if an existing project will continue

consultants or contractors with inadequate

beyond 6 October, a principal designer will

duration of the construction work.

have to be appointed and he will take over the health and safety responsibilities and the existing CDM Co-ordinator must co-operate with the principal designer. The consequences of non-compliance are potentially serious, especially for clients.

If it transpires that a client was slipshod in making these appointments, it could be liable for any issues or breaches.

The penalty for non-compliance could range from delays on a project, with the risk of additional costs, to prosecution.

Clients will need to ensure that correct contracts, policies and procedures are in place to cope with the changes. While the new legislation’s designed to simplify health and safety requirements, the onus is now on clients to understand the subtle shift in liability and to change their policies and practices accordingly.

Ignorance will be no defence, and if clients are found to have fallen short of the expected standard, they may be blocked from continuing a project until they can demonstrate they have changed the way they work. Additionally, clients will be required to appoint appropriate personnel to fulfil the role of principal designer with immediate effect, and to identify their current construction contracts that will continue beyond 6 October. If a project’s due to run over this date, there will be a need to appoint a principal designer and manage the transfer from the CDM Co-ordinator to ensure that they are satisfying both the earlier and future requirements.

For more information: www.hbjgateley.com

About the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 replace the previous 2007 version and are designed to reduce bureaucracy while ensuring safer working practices and environments across the construction industry.

They are part of an ongoing legislative response to improving health and safety standards across the construction industry.

The full Regulations are available at: www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/51/contents/made An Executive Summary of the new Regulations is available at: www.legislation.gov.uk/ uksi/2015/51/pdfs/uksiem_20150051_en.pdf

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

TIMBER & GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

Construction is a sector where Britain has a strong competitive edge and timber is a hugely important element of that sector. Andrew Carpenter, Chief Executive of the STA, sees a massive opportunity to expand the use of timber via the Construction 2025 strategy.

We have world-class expertise in architecture,

The Government wants to work with industry

People

design and engineering and British companies

to ensure British companies are well-placed

An industry that is known for its talented

are leading the way in sustainable construction

to take advantage of these opportunities.

and diverse workforce – the timber sector is

solutions. It is also a sector with considerable

As part of the Industrial Strategy policy, the

littered with highly knowledgeable and talented

growth opportunities with the global

Government is building long-term partnerships

individuals and the job of the STA is to promote

construction market forecast set to grow by

with sectors that can deliver significant

these people and ensure a ‘joined-up’ sector

over 70% by 2025.

growth. Construction is one of those sectors.

with which the wider industry can do business.

Construction 2025 is a joint strategy that

The skills shortage experienced in the past

Changes in the international economy are creating new opportunities for Britain. To help boost the economic recovery, the Government is doing all it can to help British businesses grow and have the aspiration, confidence and all-important drive needed to compete in the global race. This includes reforming the planning system: ensuring funding is available for key infrastructure projects and supporting

sets out how industry and Government will work together to put Britain at the forefront of global construction over the coming years. The document summarises the key themes and commitments within the strategy.

Industry and Government have developed a clear and defined set of aspirations for UK

two years, since the upturn in the economy, is marked and we need to work on the ‘image of our sector’ to encourage people to join us and also how we can get ‘more out of less’ by adopting lean principals in all that we do.

Smart An industry that is efficient and technologically advanced. The biggest opportunity here

the housing market through key initiatives such

construction. It begins with a clear vision of

as the Help-to-Buy Equity Loan Scheme and

where UK construction will be in 2025 in five

high on the construction industry agenda for

the Funding for Lending Scheme.

key areas.

about five years, the housing industry has been

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undoubtedly lies with BIM. Although it has been

TIMBER & GROW TH OPPORTUNITIES

slow on the update and consequently most of

Sustainable

The STA has been working with 15 erector

the STA members do not see it appearing on

An industry that leads the world in low-

members over the past three years, with

their agenda.

carbon and green construction exports. This

money from the CITB, to help them take

is obviously the ‘big ticket’ when it comes to

advantage of the future growth potential. The

The sooner we do adopt BIM as the way we

STA members, with timber probably the only

results have been outstanding with GVA across

do things, as has been the case in Norway, the

renewable resource in the construction sector

the 15 companies growing from £20,866 per

better, as it will revolutionise the way we do

and containing less embodied energy than

person in 2012 to £28,041 in 2014 – that’s an

business. BIM demands a collaborative culture,

comparable building material. The global drive

increase of 34%. The UK average is £23,755

which is exactly the requirement for any offsite

for sustainable construction solutions puts

– this gives our members an improvement over

solution to ‘stack up’ financially – therefore, it

structural timber frame at the forefront of the

that of 18%. It goes to prove that with training

makes sense commercially for STA members

agenda when it comes to the choice of building

in the right quarters, business improvement is

to support it.

materials and as Building Regulations toughen

very much a possibility. If we can cascade this

in this area, so timber will become the first

learning across the entire sector the results

choice for many clients.

would be spectacular.

BIM4Housing conferences around the UK,

Growth

Leadership

many other benefits have been indicated

An industry that drives growth across the entire

An industry with clear leadership from a

including reducing design costs by 15% -

economy – it is reassuring to note that the

Construction Leadership Council. For anything

20%, reducing material wastage by up to 20%

priority of the last five years has been one of

to take place, clear and consistent leadership

through accurate take offs, visual advantages

growth and that this is going to continue for

is essential. The STA intends to continue

to allow speedy planning decisions, sales of

the next five years. This in itself should give

its efforts to bring that leadership to those

properties abroad before a building is built

STA members the confidence to invest.

involved in the structural timber sector within

In addition to the often communicated ‘clash detection’ benefits in a recent series of

and allowing housing association residents to

the UK construction industry. The STA is now

choose internal finishes.

seen as the ‘go to’ organisation when it comes

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

to industry stakeholders but with this position

and services and the links with HBF, NHF,

comes responsibility.

Housing Forum, Constructing Excellence and

Key Construction 2025 Goals

CIOB continue to flourish.

In the area of fire safety, the STA now works

The work the STA is doing with CITB also leads

closely with both the HSE and CFOA to

the way when it comes to erector leadership,

ensure solutions are provided for whatever

management and supervisory development as

potential threat is raised. In the region of a

has already been shown. The secret is to ensure

low carbon economy, the STA works closely

this clear leadership is linked throughout the

with the Zero Carbon Hub and is involved in

supply chain and this is where our direct access

its various working groups that often lead

to the Leadership Council is key.

Government thinking.

This vision will provide the basis for the industry The STA is also working with both the DCLG

to exploit its strengths in the global market but

and GLA to help provide more housing through

closer to home will ensure a bright future for all

offsite solutions and with BIS to promote BIM

STA members.

• 33% Lower costs – reduction in the initial cost of construction and the whole life cost of built assets • 50% Improvement in exports – reduction in the trade gap between total exports and total imports for construction products and materials • 50% Faster delivery – reduction in the overall time, from inception to completion, for newbuild and refurbished assets • 50% Lower emissions – reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the built environment.

within the UK housing sector. NHBC and

The full strategy can be downloaded

LABC use the STA for their technical issues

from www.gov.uk/bis

appertaining to structural timber frame products

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TIMBER & GROW TH OPPORTUNITIES

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

PROJECT IN PICTURES -

THE DEATH-STAR CAPSULE

Unit3Sixty is believed to be the first near complete offsite modular timber skatepark in the world, featuring Europe’s biggest indoor wooden bowl – David & Goliath – including the world’s first rideable free-standing timber hemisphere – The Death-Star Capsule.

A second room includes more street inspired

as this, accuracy of offsite works is critical.

shapes and a jump training area will complete

The modules were manufactured to a general

the park. The creative design not only provides

tolerance of +/-0.5mm, which enabled us to

an incredible user experience, but stands as

assemble the ramps to a greater accuracy than

a demonstration of what is possible using 9C

the total station setting out points!

Solutions’ Contour System, and a showcase for

The scheme was manufactured by 9c solutions,

offsite constructed timber shapes in general.

with timber supplied via MBM Forest Products & Falcon Panel Products. The skatepark is a

Concept designs were developed through a

successful combination of 6mm, 18mm and

period of consultation with the local user group,

24mm Birch Ply, 9mm WISA Spruce, 18mm

many of their ideas being integrated into the

OSB, carcassing timber, glulam and i-Joists.

final layout. This layout was rationalised and detail designed using SolidEdge. The solid

For more information visit:

model CAD data was used directly for semi-

www.mbmfp.co.uk

automated CAD/CAM programming and then CNC machining. Each module, sized for ease of transport and to match material stock sizes, was assembled at our workshop in Sussex, including the installation of the finished Birch Ply riding surface. Installation and finishing of the project took place within the former steel works industrial building in Stourbridge.

The modularity of the construction method allowed for quick initial installation of the complex ramp shapes, following which a less effective on-site approach was taken to many of the peripheral areas. For shapes as complex

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THE DEATH-STAR CAPSULE

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

THE DEATH-STAR CAPSULE

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

WHY IS TIMBER ROOTED IN THE UK MARKET? George Watson, Product Manager for SmartPly explains how innovative wood panel products can benefit UK housebuilders and developers and improve the building process. He also analyses the regulations that the industry is bound by to ensure that environmental considerations are implemented.

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WHY IS TIMBER ROOTED IN THE UK MARKET?

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

Within the construction industry, timber

Today’s timber panels can be used in a range

For example, the desire to meet Passivhaus

is regarded as one of the most flexible,

of applications including roofing, flooring and

standards in the UK has grown significantly

structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing

sheathing in timber frame construction with

in recent years and OSB panels in particular

building materials with one of the lowest

engineered panels providing further benefits of

can play a big part in designing passive house

carbon footprints, especially when compared

dependable performance with no knots or core

structures. The standards for passive house

to other building materials such as steel or

voids to contend with. For the contractor, timber

state that units have to meet strict airtightness

brick and block. As such, timber is often used

panel products can also help reduce time onsite

levels with a maximum air change rate of 0.6 air

when contractors or small builders employ a

as they are easy to machine, cut and move,

changes per hour at 50Pa of pressure.

‘fabric first’ method and can help achieve a

whether installed onsite or pre-fabricated offsite.

low-carbon, high-performance energy efficient

To help builders meet the strict Passivhaus

building envelope. The timber industry is

With flexibility like this, the use of timber frame

standards, Coillte Panel Products, collaborated

growing due to a response in the need for

in newbuild homes has grown from 2% in

with a leading institution of building physics

20143. Wood

panels

building materials that match, and exceed,

the 1980’s to 27% in

certain environmental standards, especially for

are becoming more and more innovative

panel to create a new product called SmartPly

innovative building methods such as Passivhaus.

and additional technological modifications

VapAirTight.

to validate the air barrier properties of an OSB

are used to make specialist panels with The UK consumed a massive £1.15 billion

specific properties, such as flame retardancy,

of timber and panel products in 20131, with

airtightness or extreme weather resistance.

sustainability rapidly becoming more of an issue over the years. The high consumption of

With carbon reduction targets trickling down into

wood is due to the properties that the material

the UK from the EU and requirements for energy

possesses. Using wood as an alternative to steel

efficiency more important today than ever

and concrete as a building material saves, on

before, many contractors are looking to gain the

metre2

advantage by meeting and exceeding individual

average, 0.9 tonnes of CO2 per cubic

whilst being durable, versatile and cost-effective.

targets for their housing developments.

WHY IS TIMBER ROOTED IN THE UK MARKET?

35

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

The company developed a specialist surfacing

When choosing timber panels, whether for

eliminate the use of illegally sourced wood in

technology for the product to ensure a high

Passivhaus structures, durable timber frames

the UK.

vapour diffusion factor, eliminating the need for

or for fire performance, it is important that

additional air and vapour control layer (AVCL)

contractors look for a reliable product that can

For more information visit

membranes. The rigid panel is less susceptible to

stand the test of time and can be proven as

www.coilltepanelproducts.com and follow

onsite damage than flexible membranes and can

ethically sourced from certified forests. Coillte

@MediteMDF and @SmartplyOSB.

be easily installed using standard woodworking

for example operates its own FSC-certified

methods. The smooth surface also provides an

forests for the production of raw material for

excellent substrate for the application of airtight

its own innovative panels and it is vital that

tape at the panel joints.

contractors make this a consideration when sourcing wood products.

Footnotes

In addition, flame retardant panels, such as SmartPly FR/FR Build OSB3, have also been

In Autumn 2014, FSC released statistics

1 Statistical Review 2014. (2014). 1st ed.

developed and are now available in the UK

showing that 83% of timber in the UK comes

London: Timber Trade Federation, pp. 6,13

sources4,

such as

2 The Timber Industry Manifesto. (2014).

market. During the manufacturing process of

from certified sustainable

this product, a water-based, eco-friendly, fire

Coillte’s. As timber becomes recognised as a

Wood for Good, p.4

retardant is added, ensuring fire performance

more desirable, durable and innovative product,

3 The Timber Industry Manifesto. (2014).

within the panel whilst maintaining structural

the use of wood panels continues will continue

Wood for Good, p.3

integrity. Alternative post treatment fire retardant

to increase. Therefore, it is up to the builders’

4 TTF Welcomes DFID Grant. (2010).

technologies can have a destructive effect on the

contractors, self-builders and end users alike

TTF News, [Online] (221), p.2.

mechanical or physical properties of the panel

to ensure that they are only using certified

Statistical Review 2014. (2014). 1st ed.

resulting in a tendency to crack or shatter.

wood panels to help the industry to completely

London: Timber Trade Federation, pp. 6,13

36

WHY IS TIMBER ROOTED IN THE UK MARKET?

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

FIRE PROTECTION, STRUCTURAL STRENGTH AND ADAPTABILITY Structural fire safety is achieved either by what is called ‘passive protection’ for example fire resistant lining boards and/or ‘active protection’ through the use of smoke ventilation, alarm systems and sprinklers. For the structural engineer, the material choice within the structural solution will influence the passive and active fire protection strategy.

Ian Quinton, Managing Director of RCM -

The document states that structural timber

A1 Non-Combustible

suppliers of building boards and facade

construction processes can reduce the risk of fire

RCM’s Y-Wall is an adaptable calcium silicate

solutions to such high profile structural timber

through good design, taking simple precautions and

based fibre cement building board, offering

developments as the University of Hertfordshire,

ensuring good site security. It is proven that robust

excellent fire properties as well as high levels

discusses the benefits of RCM’s solutions

timber structures perform well in relation to fire by

of dimensional stability. Y-Wall is used as a fire

relating to fire regulations and technical

slowly forming a char layer and in the case of cross

rated sheathing board and is applied extensively

specifications for structural timber buildings:

laminated timber, the structure can remain stable

on both metal and timber frame structures, the

for up to 90 minutes. However, less robust timber is

product is applied behind all types of facade

“The Structural timber association recently published

generally protected by fire-rated boards and great

solutions, as well in floors and roofs, offering a

the document – 16 Steps to Fire Safety.

care needs to be taken on the detailing of this.

non-combustible classification.

38

STRUCTURAL FIRE SAFET Y

continued…

Before we supply any of our extensive range of

Multipurpose TF - Tried and Tested for

And Finally…

products to the market, they are subjected to

Timber Applications

RCM are supplying many major projects within the

rigorous testing in order to establish their capabilities

Tested by BRE Global, our new Multipurpose

timber frame and lightweight steel frame sectors.

and performance characteristics, as determined

TF Board has been specifically designed for the

Our Y-Wall and Multipurpose TF boards are on an

by the relevant British and European Standards.

structural timber sector. With BBA Certification

upward trajectory, experiencing excellent growth

A major benefit of Y-Wall is that it is rated as A1

pending, the A1 Non-Combustible Multipurpose

with more potential for the future.

non-combustible - this refers to reaction-to-fire

TF, is a cellulose fibre cement 8mm board.

classifications for contribution to fire growth in

Offering the complete solution, Multipurpose TF

As Managing Director of RCM Building Boards

accordance with – BS EN 13501-1. RCM Y Wall has

delivers exceptional racking, adaptability, strength

and Facades, I would just like to stress that

also been tested within the new BS8414 test and is

and fire protection. Multipurpose TF also has

we are committed to developing products,

suitable for buildings over 18 metres.

excellent weather properties and is very easy in

applications and services to meet the needs of

relation to cutting and fabrication.

the structural timber sector and invest further

Product Testing and Certification

in developing bespoke products. We would be

• Y-Wall is tested to BS 476 Part 4

Product Testing and Certification

interested to hear from companies who have

• Y-Wall conforms to BS EN12467

• Meets EN ISO 1716: 20101: Reaction to fire -

specific building board requirements and are

• Y-Wall tested by Warrington Fire research

unable to source a solution.”

• Fire rated throughwall solution to BS 476

• Meets EN ISO 1182: 2010: Reaction to fire

part 21 BS 476 part 22

• Fire Rating A1 Non-Combustible Classification

determination of the heat of combustion – non-combustibility

Informative CPD Events

• Meets EN 13501-1:: 2007: Classification of

For those interested in finding out more, RCM

provide informative CPD sessions including: a

Reaction to fire – A1 Non-Combustible

CE Marking

• BBA Certification Pending

guide to materials, applications and specification

In order to demonstrate that as a company RCM

• EN594 Racking Resistance

considerations for building boards, internal and

is totally committed to delivering proven systems,

external linings and rainscreen facades, covering:

our product range is CE Marked. CE Marking

Project Snapshot: University of Hertfordshire

ensures a product meets with European health,

RCM’s Y-Wall was specified by Bouygues and

• What a specifier needs to consider

safety and environmental protection legislation.

U-Living to apply to a student accommodation

• Board materials and benefits

It is a manufacturer’s declaration that the product

project for the University of Hertfordshire. The

• Board applications

meets stringent standards and guarantees

timber-frame buildings will be ‘one of the most

• Work on site

that it complies with essential requirements,

advanced’ developments in the UK in terms of

for example, products dimensions, thermal

sustainability. The £190 million, 18,000m2 project

For more details call 0845 1303725 or visit

performance and its reaction to fire classification.

comprises 2,511 bedrooms, new sports pitches,

www.buildingboards.co.uk

RCM’s Y-Wall is also BBA approved. This offers

a campus gym, informal learning and social

full technical approval for construction products

spaces as well as a new dedicated bus route.

and systems and is recognised by building

Y-Wall was specified due to its fire resistance

control, government departments, architects,

performance and high levels of dimensional

local authorities, specifiers and building insurers.

stability. The new buildings are set to achieve

BBA Approval provides reassurance to architects,

a ‘True’ Zero Carbon accreditation and meet

designers and contractors when specifying or

BREEAM Outstanding requirements under the

installing building board products.

2011 regulations.

ALSO PLEASE WATCH OUT FOR OUR LAUNCH OF OUR AIR STOP AND AIRVENT SYSTEMS!

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES WITH SOLID WOOD With structural timber buildings reaching new heights of up to 10 storeys in the UK – Solid Wood Solutions 2015 is an event not to be missed.

Across the globe ‘tall timber’ is an on-going trend that continues to excite architects and structural engineers. With offsite construction and sustainability high on the building agenda – Solid Wood Solutions is an essential event to hear first-hand from industry leaders and innovators. This one day conference and exhibition will showcase the very best in engineered timber by creating a platform for the industry’s innovators to present some of the most prestigious projects from across the UK and Europe and explain the benefits of CLT, glulam and engineered wood.

16 September 2015 and will host over 250 delegates from around the world.

• Eoin McCooey - Project Manager &

Speakers for this year’s event include:

• Kate Edmondson – Architect, Penoyre

Solid Wood Solutions will be taking place at the Inmarsat Conference Centre, London on

• Andy Boutle – BIM Manager,

Tickets are just £95 +VAT

Kier Construction

www.solidwoodsolutions.co.uk/book

BIM Manager, Eurban & Prasad LLP

• Michael Green – Founder, MGA (invited)

• Nick Milestone – Managing Director,

• Tim Snelson – Associate Director,

B & K Structures

Arup Associates

• Simon Brambles – Architect, 3D Reid • Andrew Waugh – Founding Director,

Waugh Thistleton Architects

• Alex Smith – Associate, Hawkins/Brown

As engineered timber is one of the fastest growing modern methods of construction, this event is designed to inspire through innovation.

• Clive Fussell – Director, Engenuiti

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

EAVES DETAILS & THERMAL PERFORMANCE Today’s housebuilders are facing poor thermal performance at the eaves detail in the majority of trussed rafter roofs. However, there is a solution that is well worth considering says Tim Tasker, Design Manager at Pasquill, the UK’s largest supplier of roof trusses.

Standard

Bobtail

Today, being able to offer energy-efficient

resultant lack of insulation at the eaves can be

recommends it in order to optimise thermal

homes is of course not just about selling

the cause of potential cold spots. In the worst

performance at the eaves detail.

warm, cosy houses that are inexpensive

case scenario, an upstairs bathroom whose

to run, it is necessarily about meeting the

warm, moist air meets such a cold spot at the

Truncating traditional triangular trusses in this

increasingly onerous requirements of the

junction of the roof and ceiling will develop

way means the mineral wool insulation in the

building regulations.

mould growth. The homeowner will complain to

roof space can be brought right through to meet

the housebuilder and costly remedial action will

the insulation within the cavity wall, thereby

be required.

ensuring that a cold bridge is not created, so

In order to achieve the required U-values of the regulations, taking a whole-house approach to

that heat is not lost at this point.

calculations is becoming increasingly common.

The solution to this situation is to do away with

For roofs, mineral wool insulation is relatively

this ‘pinch point’ where insulation tapers out

Here at Pasquill, the roof designs we

inexpensive compared with other options and

to next to nothing by raising the rafter member

usually receive do not allow for Bob-Tail

generously deep layers of it are often used as a

so that the depth of insulation installed into the

truss configurations to be used. We would

significant element of whole-house calculations.

eaves matches that of the rest of the roof. Raising

recommend that if possible Bob-Tail trusses

This is understandable, but unfortunately

the rafter member in this way means using what

are designed into the overall structure of the

the thickness of the insulation necessarily

is usually referred to as a ‘Bob-Tail Truss’. It is

roof scheme at an early stage by the architect

diminishes to next-to-nothing at the eaves. The

rarely seen in this scenario, but Pasquill strongly

concerned. Our roof truss designers can then

42

EAVES DETAILS & THERMAL PERFORMANCE

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

design the best solution for cost-effective

It is interesting that the government has now

succeeds in lowering environmental standards

sizing and configuration detailing at this stage,

scrapped the Code for Sustainable Homes.

and sustainability targets.

before one of our nationwide branches begins

We hear that there is a move to embed energy

the manufacturing process.

targets within Building Regulations. At the time of writing we are waiting to find out more about the

Thermal bridging will always occur in buildings,

details of this. Certainly the Code for Sustainable

but if we can help to minimise it using

Homes has been crucial in raising environmental

solutions such as this, then we can assist

standards in new housing over the past decade.

housebuilders in the holy grail of achieving

It will be fascinating to see whether, in its aim

optimum thermal performance and building

of simplifying processes and cutting down on

zero carbon homes.

red tape going forwards, the government simply

44

For more information contact Lokesh Patel, email: lokesh.patel@pasquill.co.uk

EAVES DETAILS & THERMAL PERFORMANCE

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

A ROOFING PRODUCT YOU CAN TRUSS-T Jonathan Fellingham, Managing Director of Donaldson Timber Engineering (DTE), discusses how trusses and early client engagement ensured a smooth programme for a challenging affordable housing development in Cheshire.

Timber roof trusses are the most common

in with an existing development. Plus, as

The new houses needed to be built to a high

method of constructing a pitched roof, and

they are manufactured using controlled

standard so that they would sit in harmony

it’s easy to see why. Trusses deliver a flexible,

design techniques and assembly processes,

with their neighbours. Trusses were specified

practical, simple-to-erect engineered solution

they allow for a ‘just in time’ delivery,

to create a similar style to the existing houses

for both masonry and timber frame constructed

meaning they can be to site in prime

in the area, while materials such as natural

buildings. As they use up to 40% less timber

condition and at the optimum time for

slate and metal rain water goods were used to

than a traditionally formed roof, they are also

the project.

complement the surroundings.

very cost-effective.

This can be a crucial factor, especially for

As the rural site was set within a Conservation

The flexibility of these components is

residential building when developments are

Area and very close to existing homes and local

undoubtedly what sets them apart from other

being built alongside existing housing stock.

facilities, there were clear build challenges

methods of construction in this area. Thanks to

We recently worked on a bespoke housing

from the outset. The development was situated

modern design software, a trussed rafter can

project for MCI Developments where the

on a main road backed by the Chester Canal,

be designed for virtually any roof shape. Taking

flexibility of both style and delivery proved

and was also at the side of the popular local

the proposed building’s data and statistics, the

invaluable. The development comprised four

pub and restaurant, the Cheshire Cat. The key

roof is designed by CAD to exact specification,

three-bedroom homes and nine two-bedroom

issues were not to cause any disruption to the

creating bespoke trusses for a wide variety of

homes for Plus Dane Housing Association in

residents on the barges moored at the rear of

shapes and sizes.

the picturesque village of Christleton near

the site and also to maintain a clean and tidy

Chester. DTE was one of the suppliers for

access to the Cheshire Cat, which was still

As trusses are so versatile, they are an ideal

floors as well as roofs, providing both roof

open for business. This meant all deliveries had

solution when homes are being designed to fit

trusses and Posi Joists for all 13 units.

to be impeccably timed.

46

A ROOFING PRODUCT YOU CAN TRUSS-T

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

and experienced subcontractors and key suppliers to create what is still today an outstanding and determined MCI project team.”

Site manager Paul King added: “The complexity of the project meant that each day we would have operatives from all trades on site. We were receiving deliveries from concrete trucks to large articulated vehicles delivering products from block brick to roofs - all with varying stages of progress from footings through to final snagging, and all being worked on at any one time.”

The early involvement of suppliers and finely timed deliveries worked to perfection, An early stage pre-start meeting was held by

With clear and concise communication from site

and the project went smoothly over the 52

the site manager so that all concerned had a

and the office we completed the project without

week programme. Thanks to this successful

full understanding of the site limitations and

causing any disruption to the build programme,

partnership working, MCI Developments was

clear instructions for timings. Michael Timmins,

and more importantly, to the local village and

given the Highly Commended Award for Social

our Trading Manager for North UK was involved

its community.

Housing Development of the Year by Premier Guarantee, and it was rated as being one of the

from the start of the project, and the team at our Ilkeston branch was fully aware of the potential

Tony Renshaw, buyer for MCI Developments

issues on site.

explained: “Since we were first awarded this

top 10 developments in the country.

contract from Plus Dane Group, planning and

For more information visit:

logistics were critical. We engaged with trusted

www.donaldsontimberengineering.co.uk

By engaging with the client from day one, we were able to prepare for the very specific time frame for the deliveries and also knew what we were dealing with onsite in terms of space and logistics. As the trusses are factory manufactured, the high quality and performance of the product can be ensured, and this also brings added benefits on site, such as speed of build, improved health and safety and minimal waste – all of which are hugely important when access and space is limited.

A ROOFING PRODUCT YOU CAN TRUSS-T

47

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

OPPORTUNITY & RISK MANAGEMENT In a still volatile economic climate, Paul Trigg, assistant Head of Risk Underwriting and timber specialist at trade credit insurer Euler Hermes, examines the risk outlook for the timber industry.

Speaking to timber companies across the

The spike in insolvencies we’ve seen is due to a

With uncertainty surrounding prices, there is

country it is apparent that many are optimistic

combination of factors affecting companies across

a risk that timber material purchases will be

about their prospects for the second half of

the UK. A rise in input prices caused by a shortage

delayed to see if they will fall again. This creates

the year and beyond. With the current upswing

in raw materials and increasing labour costs is

a stock risk for many structural timber firms,

in the economy, a large number are looking

causing considerable concern, while a pipeline of

and those with high stock levels are faced with

to pursue new contracts and expansion

low margin work secured during the recession is

a decision to sell at a loss or to maintain high

opportunities.

placing increasing pressure on cash flows.

stock in the hope that prices increase in the future. Either way, continued price pressure has

The boost in confidence is partly due to

Surrey-headquartered Longcross Construction

the potential to severely affect cash flow and

reports released by the Construction Products

Ltd, which put insolvency measures in place in

could put firms in significant financial difficulties.

Association in April, which show that output

early June, is a prime example of this. Problem

growth in the construction sector is expected to

contracts and the scaling back of developments

To help address the challenges the market is

outperform GDP, with levels predicted to rise by

in the food retail sector have led to severe

presenting, businesses should maintain an

5.5 per cent during 2015.

financial problems for the company.

attentive approach to their finances, working

This rise in output reflects an upturn across

In addition, despite promises from the

Staying aware of the payment patterns and

the sector, helped by the new Government

Government with regards to new public sector

keeping an eye on key customer and debtor

reiterating commitments to build 200,000 new

infrastructure and housebuilding programmes,

trends, both in the short and long term, should

starter homes by 2020. Together with a general

realistically there is a limit to the amount of

be a key focus for businesses and help protect

increase in commercial construction activity and

projects that can be progressed over the next

vulnerable firms as the timber industry continues

the return of speculative development, structural

year due to site availability.

to grow during the second half of the year and

closely with their credit and funding partners.

timber companies are expecting demand for products to rise.

throughout 2016.

From a structural timber perspective, the increase in UK construction activity presents a

For more information visit:

But despite this positive outlook, the sector

real opportunity, however growth has arguably

www.eulerhermes.co.uk

is still fraught with risk, and it’s important

been a little one dimensional with the main

that companies remain vigilant and protect

driver coming from residential housebuilding.

themselves accordingly. The rise in insolvencies seen within the sector should act as a telling

Meeting structural timber suppliers, one

warning sign – the failure of several large

of their main concerns continues to be falling

companies, including Midlands-based Anglo Holt

prices, and, although many hope that they

Construction Ltd and GB Building Solutions at

have now floored, factors such as excess

the beginning of the year, has surprised many in

global capacity and the weak euro is

the industry.

causing concern.

48

OPPORTUNIT Y & RISK MANAGEMENT

06.10.2015 NEC Birmingham

The platform to showcase architectural gems and timber innovations. Aimed at promoting excellence in the use of structural timber technologies – these Awards will recognise best practice and the accomplishments of ground breaking projects.

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS – FINALISTS & SHORTLIST ANNOUNCED The Awards have been submitted and the judges have spoken –the shortlist for the inaugural Structural Timber Awards was announced earlier this month with a strong list of contenders in the running to win best in class.

With over 160 entries across 14 categories,

decision makers from the construction industry

this year’s awards have been packed full of

and will provide a significant platform for

outstanding, pioneering projects, products

targeting the timber industry.

Headline Sponsor:

and people. Each of the judges assessed three of the 14 categories on a strict and

Here is the shortlist of finalists vying for top

confidential marking system to establish the

honours. Don’t miss out. Make sure you attend

shortlisted entries.

to celebrate the best in building with the world’s

Sponsors:

leading mainstream, low-carbon construction Through categories such as the sought after

material. And network with industry peers.

Project of the Year and Product Innovation – the Structural Timber Awards will showcase

Book tickets at:

some of the most ground-breaking projects

www.structuraltimberawards.co.uk

and products. With the industry embracing the aesthetic appeal of structural timber technology, the full potential of this adaptable and sustainable material has been showcased across all the sectors and shortlisted projects.

Andrew Carpenter, Chief Executive the Structural Timber Association and Chair of Judges said: “I am extremely proud to chair the Judging Panel of the inaugural Structural Timber Awards. The standard of entries were outstanding and it was a hard task picking out the finalists. The

Industry Partners:

depth of expertise and talent across all sectors was impressive and the exceptional number of entries clearly demonstrates the upturn in the industry – placing the Structural Timber Awards as a high point in the construction calendar.”

The winners will be presented at a high profile

Media Partners:

dinner, taking place on Tuesday 06 October 2015 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham as part of UK Construction Week.

The inaugural awards will attract over 500 national business leaders and high profile

50

STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

Best Social Housing Project The Accord Group – LoCaL Homes Climate Energy Homes – Passive Close CCG (Scotland) – Anderston Regeneration MAKAR – Fodderty Development Best Private Housing Project Arboreal Architecture – Mazarin House ataSTUDIO – Private House Edgley Design – Private House Hive Architects Studio – Wood Room Prewitt Bizley Architects – Dundon Passivhaus Timber Design – Allies Farm Wilkinson King Architects – Sussex House X-LAM Alliance – Banyan Wharf Best Education Project B & K Structures – BSkyB Believe in Better Building Innovaré Systems – Reigate Primary School KLH UK – William Perkin High School Morgan Sindall – New Park and Northway Timber Frame Primary Schools Ramboll – Mayfield School Webb Yates – Wimbledon College of Art Best Healthcare Project Alan Baxter – Maggie’s Oxford Castleoak – Burton Waters Care Home Innovaré Systems – Kingfisher Court KLH UK – Dyson Centre for Neonatal Care at Bath’s Royal United Hospital (NICU) SIPCO – Alexandra Nursing Home Stora Enso – Cranleigh Health Centre

Phelan Architects - York Racecourse

Webb Yates - Wimbledon College of Art

Best Commercial Project Arup Associates – BSkyB Believe in Better Building Arup – Sky Health & Fitness Centre Carson and Partners – East Sands Development Phelan Architects – York Racecourse Nordic Construction – Hope Street, Liverpool Welsh Oak Frame – Woodland Burials Best Retail Project B & K Structures – The Bishop Centre, Taplow Fordingbridge – Whipsnade Zoo Lynx Forecourt – Sainsbury’s Petrol Filling Stations Wiehag GmbH – Crossrail Station at Canary Wharf Fordingbridge - ‘Zero Energy’ Costa Coffee

52

STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS

B&K Structures - The Bishop Centre Taplow

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

Low Energy Project Arup Associates – BSkyB Believe in Better Building Deluxe Developers – Cedar Barn Fordingbridge – Zero Energy Costa Coffee Invisible Studio – Invisible Studio Kingspan Insulation – River Studio Scotframe – Maryville Passive House Engineer of the Year AED – 217 Rossal Arup – Sky Believe in Better Building & Sky Health and Fitness Centre Elliott Wood – Swimming Pool at Alfriston School Engenuiti – Banyan Wharf Webb Yates Engineers – Wimbledon College of Art Architect of the Year AHR – New Park and Northway Timber Primary Schools Arup Associates – BSkyB Believe in Better Building The Harris Partnership – The Blackburn Wing Hive Architects – Wood Room Knox Bhavan Architects – The Level Velo Café

Innovaré Systems – Duck2 BY I-SIP MiTek Industries – PAMIR Pitzl Metallbau – PITZL-POWER CLAMP Protect Membranes – Protect VC Foil Ultra SIG RoofSpace – RoofSpace I-Roof™ Tenmat – Firefly Cavity Fire Barrier on a Roll (CFBR) X-LAM Alliance – The CLT Construction Specifier Pioneer Award Arup MiTek Industries Ramboll UK SIG RoofSpace X-LAM Alliance Project of the Year Arup – Sky Health & Fitness Centre Elliott Wood – Alfriston School HESS Timber – High Tech Waste-to-Energy Plant, Leeds Morgan Sindall – New Park and Northway Timber Primary Schools Walker Timber Group – Beacon Barracks Wiehag GmbH – Crossrail Station at Canary Wharf.

Client of the Year BSkyB Canary Wharf Co-operation PLC Liverpool City Council Regal Homes Veolia Contractor of the Year Canary Wharf Contractors – Crossrail Station at Canary Wharf Clugston Contractors – High Tech Waste-to-Energy Plant, Leeds Kier – William Perkin School Morgan Sindall – New Park and Northway Timber Primary Schools Nordic Construction – Hope Street, Liverpool SIG Roofspace – RoofSpace I-Roof™ Product Innovation Award Alumasc Exterior Building Products – The Alumasc Ventilated System (AVS) Arup – 4.5T Superbeams Consolidated Timber Holdings – Resysta

Elliott Wood – Swimming Pool at Alfriston School

KLH UK- Dyson Centre for Neonatal Care at Bath’s Royal United Hospital (NICU

Alumasc Exterior Building Products - The Alumasc Ventilated System

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON TICKETS FOR THE AWARDS PLEASE CONTACT AMY PRYCE ON 01743 290 001 OR EMAIL: AMY.PRYCE@STRUCTURALTIMBERAWARDS.CO.UK FOR DETAILS ON SPONSORSHIP PLEASE CONTACT DAVID SMITH ON 01743 290 001 OR EMAIL: DAVID.SMITH@STRUCTURALTIMBERAWARDS.CO.UK YOU CAN ALSO KEEP UP TO DATE AT: WWW.STRUCTURALTIMBERAWARDS.CO.UK

STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS

53

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

FABRIC FIRST EVERYTIME The drive to achieve to achieve zero carbon homes is a challenge for the construction industry, but the advantages offered by timber construction will play a central role in achieving these targets. James Walker, Technical Consultant from the STA investigates.

According to the Committee on Climate Change

The STA is already leading the way to energy

the carbon emissions of the building before

(CCC), buildings account for a third of the

efficient timber construction using its Fabric First

using more costly renewable energy or

UK’s carbon dioxide emissions. The embodied

approach – this prioritises the insulation and

heating systems.

energy associated with the construction of

airtightness of the external envelope to reduce

buildings account for approximately 15% of the total energy requirements, while heating and lighting through the life of the building account for approximately 83% of the total energy requirements.

Structural timber buildings provide low embodied energy frames and offer the opportunity for joined up solutions to deliver energy efficient construction to help minimise in-service energy requirements of the building over its lifetime. Throughout the timber industry, this has been referred to as Fabric First for years. Now the rest of the construction industry is ready to listen.

Timber is well suited to the construction of energy efficient buildings due to its inherent sustainability, low heat conductivity and high structural strength and boasts benefits such as: • Low embodied carbon • A choice of insulation • Airtight construction • Proven construction details with pre- calculated thermal bridging psi-values • Minimal waste • Fast construction • A supply chain choice

Table shows example of advanced timber frame performance and the impact on reduced energy in

• Offsite manufacture in a quality

service requirements. The above diagram uses Part L from England Building Regulations as an example

controlled environment

of how Fabric First in structural timber works.

54

FABRIC FIRST EVERY TIME

Improving the airtightness of a building involves

prefabrication inherent in this building method.

It is not only easier to monitor quality in the

sealing the complete building envelope in an

This is particularly the case for the performance

factory environment, but allows for the all-critical

attempt to minimise draughts and air leakage,

of junctions, where work completed in the

insulation to be positioned such that it is able

since significant heat can be lost through the

factory allows for greater control of the

to work more effectively by minimising thermal

exchange of air between the inside and outside

building elements and ensures that the

bridges and thereby reducing the risk posed by

of the building.

junctions are considered during the design

adverse environmental conditions.

phase as a necessity.

The insulation and airtightness strategy of any building must be combined with a suitable ventilation strategy to ensure that fresh air is brought into the building and humidity levels are controlled to avoid problems caused by condensation. A high level of airtightness offers further opportunities for energy savings by controlling the ventilation and transferring heat, through the use of a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) unit, from the stale air being exhausted from the building into the fresh air being brought into the building.

Evidence suggests that it is also easier to achieve the predicted energy performance when constructing with structural timber methods, due to the higher level of offsite

The wall fabric and construction details influence the energy efficiency of the building.

Concept ideas shown only

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

Offsite construction ensures quality that can be

timber system supplier ensuring that practical

member companies. The STA rightly identified

monitored at every stage, unlike other methods

joined up solutions evolve.

that its erector members required a significant

that are reliant on a multitude of trades, with

amount of up-skilling to take advantage of the

no interest in the next phase of the build

This also links with the adoption of Building

upturn in the construction market as well as the

programme. Factory based activities allow

Information Modelling (BIM), which is something

increasing popularity of timber as a construction

better and safer working conditions, while also

that will help to achieve design continuity by

material. This proved to be very successful and

protecting the workers from the changeable

monitoring and controlling changes during the

is something that continues to roll out further.

British climate, which is more likely to lead to

construction process through to handover;

The STA offers a suite of advice notes that

better quality work.

however BIM requires a significant amount of

help members to understand the basics of

upfront design and a high level of coordination

constructing energy efficient homes and meet

which, for house building, may not be a practical

the required performance targets:

Joined-up Solutions

solution as yet.

As well as the benefits of timber as a structural

• STA Advice Note 6.1 Fabric first approach to

material and the offsite manufacturing

While BIM is an ideal vehicle to deliver

thermal performance.

processes available, the culture of the timber

efficiencies and compliments offsite

• STA Advice Note 6.2 Information for house

construction industry is already in a good

construction, the timber supply chain can work

builders addressing Part L 2013 updates for

position to provide zero carbon homes. The

without BIM while it evolves. Joined up solutions

new dwellings.

problem with the supply chain throughout the

are achieved in the old way of communicating

• STA Advice Note 6.3 Structural timber

construction sector is that the build process

and taking responsibility for the envelope; if the

solutions to deliver advanced fabric energy

can easily be deconstructed and fragmented

right people are engaged at the right time as

efficiency (September 2015).

in order to save costs, which means that

part of the project team.

the responsibility at each stage is passed on to a different person or trade without the

With the price of energy continuing to rise and

Education and Skills

correct knowledge of the material being used.

pressure being placed on ever shrinking family budgets, a building’s operational performance

Fundamentally, this problem comes down to a

The STA is committed to education and

will inevitably become something that

breakdown in communication.

improving skills. We work with members to

consumers will focus on more in the coming

provide CITB backed tool box talks along with

years. When people understand the value of a

A significant benefit of timber construction is the

training for assembly teams, workshops on best

truly efficient home and appreciate that they are

fact that the timber industry already has a joined

practice, factory tours (designed to help educate

getting a better product, they will be prepared to

up supply chain. Timber frame offers a high

the entire supply chain) and advice notes on

pay for it and they will start to demand it.

level of collaboration allowing a totally integrated

design, technical and quality assurance.

design, manufacture and erector supply chain, which provides customers with a greater level of

In 2013, the STA recognised the need to both

speed, efficiency and indeed quality every single

up-skill and train more timber frame erectors –

time. The big message here is that information

as a result, a mentoring and training programme

flows between the client’s design team and the

was developed to improve the skills of its erector

56

FABRIC FIRST EVERY TIME

For more information and technical information visit: www.structuraltimber.co.uk Learn more at: www.fabricfirstevent.co.uk

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Our design team split the building into modules and we assemble them in our factory ready to be delivered and installed onsite. The entire delivery and installation process is very efficient and usually takes just a few hours or matter of days.

We understand the difficulties main contractors experience with the lack of skilled construction workforce, deteriorating weather conditions and the desperate need for buildings to be erected quickly and with greener credentials. Working with the main contractor we have the solution.

Our facility can produce 15,000 sqm of buildings each year and our controlled factory environment ensures quality control is successfully achieved with minimal tolerances so difficult to achieve with an onsite build. We can obtain any coding requirements up to

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THERMAL PERFORMANCE

Passivhaus standard very easily and because of the thin thru wall build up GIA of the building is maximised. Likewise a useable loft space is always achievable.

We will supply the weatherproofed, wrapped superstructure ready for main contractors to finish the external/internals and we are happy to partner with either a local or national company.

Our build system is ideally suited to the ‘airspace’ market adding storeys to existing superstructures, but also ideal for the education sector with the ability to manufacture and ‘store’ modules for the building ready for installation during the school holiday window.

Our modular engineering team work with the existing appointed architect alternatively we can offer a full design and engineering solution from design concept to completion with our team of experts in prefabricated architecture and value engineering.

For more details visit: www.modularairspacesystems.co.uk

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

WILL FUTURE HOMES OVERHEAT? With a modern mantra of Fabric First, building with timber is a key way to deliver energy efficient homes. We hear from the Zero Carbon Hub on its project assessing building temperatures, the impact of climate change and what homebuilders should remember when planning new developments.

All new homes are now required to meet strict

a building become uncomfortably warm or

say, a number of larger-scale monitoring studies

energy efficiency standards, and millions of

excessively hot, because the design of the

of 200 homes or more have found that internal

existing homes across the country have better

building hampers the occupant’s ability to keep

temperatures exceed thermal comfort guidelines

insulation, energy efficient glazing and highly

it sufficiently cool. Exposure to excess heat

in approximately 20% of cases.

efficient boilers. A growing proportion of the

in homes can have serious consequences for

housing stock is also benefitting from low

the health of the people living there, especially

Fortunately, homes which are overheating

carbon energy production through decentralised

if high temperatures persist over prolonged

– however mildly or severely – tend to have

systems and technologies such as photovoltaics

periods. In extreme cases, there can be a risk

recognised combinations of risk factors. An

(PV) panels.

to life for vulnerable groups such as the elderly

obvious example is when a dwelling’s windows,

or sick. The elderly are usually less able to

intended to provide ventilation and to purge hot

As a result properties are becoming more

adapt to higher temperatures, and may also

air, open onto a noisy main road, and so are

cost-effective to run and the built environment

live alone and not seek help quickly enough if

rarely used by the occupants. By understanding

is playing its part in the transition to the low-

feeling unwell.

the range of risk factors, designers, housing

carbon economy. However, as we get better at

providers and retrofitters can use this knowledge

building and retrofitting homes to prevent heat

With external temperatures set to increase and

to target overheating mitigation to the homes

loss in the winter, we may inadvertently increase

more hot spells anticipated, there is mounting

and people which most need them.

the risk of overheating in warmer months.

concern that overheating in homes will become

Throw into the mix likely increases in the

much more commonplace in the future.

number of unusually hot summers as the

Heatwaves similar to the one experienced in

climate changes, more frequent and intense

Europe in 2003 could occur every other year by

Why does overheating happen? And how can

heatwaves and continuing construction in dense

the 2040s.

the construction and energy efficiency sector

Tackling Overheating in Homes

prevent it getting worse in the coming years?

cities, then more people could find they are living in homes which reach uncomfortable or

A new report published by the Zero Carbon Hub

Such questions prompted the Zero Carbon Hub

excessive temperatures.

on 16 June 2015 agrees with earlier findings

– with the backing of government department

by the Committee on Climate Change – that up

and industry partners – to take stock and

Overheating, in this context, is the term used

to 20% of homes in England may already be

investigate the extent to which the sector is

to describe situations where the conditions in

overheating, even in cool summers. That is to

gearing up to address the issue of overheating.

58

WILL FUTURE HOMES OVERHEAT

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

EXTERNAL EXTERNAL HEATGAINS GAINS HEAT

☼

INTERNAL HEAT GAINS INTERNAL HEAT GAINS

LO LOCATION-RELATED FACTORS

There are a number of reasons why overheating occurs in homes

arises when a number59%of causes or processes act together. The lo which have characteristics that make them of the 74 Housing Providers answering

Similar to the problem of cold homes, simple changes to the design, measures to reduce

more prone to overheating, before carrying our Overheating Survey reported having a construction type and layout of the home can also be a factor. The out any formal risk assessment modelling form assessment process in place intended to to prevent the problem occurring. Certain heat gains and advice for occupants can help

identify properties at risk of overheating. 36%

exercises. A form of ‘first pass’.

overheating are set out more detail in the NHBC Foundation’s G did not,in and the remainder did not know. win-win by simultaneously making homes measures and solutions can even create a

more energy efficient and helping to keep them

These ‘higher risk’ properties were then subjected to detailed checks and, if found to fall short of the chosen overheating criteria, measures would be installed or design changes made to reduce the potential for overheating.

A number of Housing– Providers interviewedto start (NF44)’.

‘Understanding Overheating where by the Zero Carbon Hub described how their

cool. For example, low energy lighting reduces energy use and should also lower the level of internal heat gains.

technical teams are using their experience and knowledge of overheating risk factors to identify sub-sets of properties or designs

A key question is to what extent the housing sector is assessing the risk of their stock

Tackling overheating

overheating and then treating the properties that need work? The consideration of overheating risk has not, historically, been regarded as a

high priority for many housing providers, but this

Does your organisation have responsibility for shaping the performance of new homes?

Is the assessment of the risk of overheating something that is routinely carried out?

The Zero Carbon Hub’s report can be found at www.zerocarbonhub.org.

A second phase of the project will begin this summer. If you have any experiences you would like to share with them please contact info@zerocarbonhub.org.

Overheating is caused by a variety of effects. Tackling it requires an a

appears to be changing.

be implemented on aWILL large scale, scale and at59 the sc FUTURE HOMESneighbourhood OVERHEAT

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

THE OFFSITE HUB Later this year a fresh concept and online service for the offsite sector will be launched bringing into focus the growing importance of prefabrication and factory-based methods, products, systems and disciplines. And importantly, for all those individuals and organisations working within it.

Offsite manufacture removes much of the construction process from the construction site, leading to far-reaching and vital benefits.

Offsite methods and materials geared towards prefabrication and factory-based production are increasingly being regarded as an important way to deliver cost-effective, sustainable and quality construction. Offsite techniques are becoming key ingredients in solving the UK’s many construction headaches and many new government-backed initiatives are starting to materialise.

The Offsite Hub is a new online information centre keeping the world of offsite manufacturing and technology connected and is designed to be the first port of call for anyone interested in what is happening across the offsite world.

The Hub will be a continually evolving and expanding web portal drawing together information from across the offsite arena. The Hub will offer a number of sections that users will be able to access freely.

NEWS – latest stories, including opinion, comment and short features on offsite technology from the UK and showcasing international developments including the USA and Australia where offsite and modular building is gathering pace.

EVENTS – keep up to date with the Explore Offsite series of events, Solid Wood Solutions, Fabric First, a continuing programme of Factory Tours, Site Visits and the progress of UK Construction Week.

60

COMMUNITY – the people behind the projects and products, a video vault, an ongoing blog and social media. Join in with industry peers and take part in intelligent discussion on the world of offsite.

DIRECTORY – the most comprehensive listing of UK offsite manufacturers and specialists.

Supported by an intuitive search and filtering system that will enable specifiers to identify suppliers of offsite technology and also to provide feedback on their experiences of working with them. Supplementing the Directory will be an online Enquiry system permitting immediate access to manufacturers for technical input or live project needs.

OFFSITE TECHNOLOGY – concrete, steel and timber, architectural innovation and design, volumetric and modular buildings, bathroom and kitchen pods and the array of products used for offsite build. These will be referenced in detail for all those that are new to offsite manufacture.

INFORMATION CENTRE – access to a growing technical library covering specific material bulletins, reports and guidance documents on the ways offsite is being analysed by the wider construction industry and trade associations.

inspiration, knowledge and learning.

Soon to follow will be an Offsite Job Search and recruitment area plus a Learning Zone outlining training courses, educational prospects and CPD options for professionals in-trade.

The Offsite Hub is due to launch 06 October 2015 during UK Construction Week, but a BETA test version of the Hub will go live during September 2015.

New developments and announcements will be available at: www.offsitehub.co.uk If you would like to know more about the Hub, get involved, supply a regular blog or wish to send any form of content email: info@offsitehub.co.uk OFFSITE

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PROJECT GALLERY Our members are involved in a wide range of off site projects and product innovations.

Our case study library is a snap-shot of our member’s achievements.

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OFFSITE TECHNOLOGIES Our members are involved in a wide range of off site projects and product innovations.

Our case study library is a snap-shot of our member’s achievements.

OFFSITE ARCHIVE – history tells us many things and so the Offsite Archive will provide a comprehensive index of projects and product innovations developed since the start of the 21st century. This section will provide

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION AWARDS 2015 Championing the Finest in Offsite Construction and Technology

Launched earlier this month during the Explore Offsite event in Birmingham, the Offsite Construction Awards 2015 are set celebrate the best in precision building design and delivery.

The Awards will reward outstanding examples of products, systems and disciplines that increasingly strive to develop this streamlined way to deliver a better built environment.

Offsite manufacture removes much of the construction process from the construction site, leading to far-reaching and vital benefits.

Offsite methods and materials geared towards prefabrication and factory-based production are increasingly being regarded as an important way to deliver a cost-effective, sustainable and quality construction. Offsite is becoming a key ingredient in solving the UK’s many construction problems.

Across key sectors of UK construction, the Awards will showcase innovation, celebrate best practice and recognise overall expertise in offsite construction through landmark projects, influential people and manufacturing excellence in this progressive arena.

The Awards will take place on 7 October 2015, at the Birmingham NEC during UK Construction Week and is set to become a major event in the offsite calendar, attracting national business leaders and high profile decision makers from the across the construction and offsite industry.

Award categories will range from specific material and systems use e.g. concrete, steel, timber and volumetric technology, to encompass building sectors such as housing, commercial/ retail, public sector schemes and varied infrastructure projects.

The 12 Award Categories Best Use of Concrete Best Use of Steel Best Use of Timber Best Hybrid Construction Project Best Use of Volumetric Technology Best Use of MEP Prefabrication Housing Project of the Year Commercial/Retail Project of the Year Public Sector Project of the Year Infrastructure Project of the Year Product Innovation Award

The Awards will be judged by an independent panel of experts drawn from all four corners of the world of offsite manufacture and connected disciplines. The judges welcome a diverse range and examples of offsite use. The Awards are open to public and private organisations and projects, either of which must be located in the UK and whose businesses/project or product is related to offsite manufacture and related disciplines.

Offsite Professional of the Year.

A full description of each category and entry information is available on: www.offsiteawards.co.uk

Sponsorship Opportunities There are a number of sponsorship packages available to support the Offsite Awards including headline sponsorship and individual category sponsorships.

This prominent event provides one of the most effective platforms for targeting the offsite industry, presenting the ideal opportunity to maximise exposure and penetrate this economically important market.

62

The Offsite Awards takes place on 7 October 2015, at the Birmingham NEC during UK Construction Week. www.offsiteawards.co.uk

OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION AWARDS

For more details on sponsorship opportunities contact: 01743 290 001 or julie.richards@radar-communications.co.uk

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FR TREATMENT The correct timber fire retardant (FR) is essential to the performance of wood under flame. Earlier this year, the Wood Protection Association (WPA) opened a help-desk for architects seeking generic guidance on the fire protection of wood and wood-based panel products.

Access to the helpdesk is by referral from

standards and some by the advent of the

of results that distinguish one from the other.

WPA members and has resulted in detailed

Construction Products Regulations and CE

Any organisation that claims they are the

discussions with architects about specific

marking declarations of performance. It is

same is wrong and one can only speculate

projects and fire retardant treatments.

however, evident that this situation is made

that such statements are made for commercial

When fire protection of wood is called for by

worse by the perpetuation of certain myths

self-interest.

Building Regulations it is vital, for the safety

and misperceptions about fire performance

of those who use the building, that the fire

standards and fire test requirements. It is a

Misunderstanding Fire Classification Reports

retardant specified delivers predictable long-

key aim of the WPA to set the record straight

In terms of misunderstanding the technical

term performance backed by independent

on FR choices.

issues, interpretation of Fire Classification

verification.

Certificates is without question the key issue.

Debunking FRT Myths

And the principle mistake is a failure to ensure

The help-desk service is highlighting the reality

The most frequent myth encountered is

that the scope of a fire classification report

of getting fire retardant (FR) specifications

that Building Regulations National Class

relates to the specific species, profile and

right is far from straightforward. Discussions

‘0’ and the EN Euroclass B standards have

installation design they intend to use. Different

with those responsible for fire protection

interchangeable fire test requirements. As

species, sizes or installation design e.g. air

for a project are characterised by specifier

all members of the WPA FR sector and

gap/no air gap and type of backing material

uncertainty and misunderstanding of technical

Benchmark FR quality schemes are aware,

affect fire performance ratings. The WPA help-

issues. Some of this confusion is caused by

these standards have different technical

desk strongly urges specifiers to scrutinise

the transition from British to European fire

requirements for fire tests and interpretation

fire certificates closely and demand extended

64

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FR TREATMENT

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

application reports for even the smallest of

Method of Application and

a Notified Body directly relevant to Building

details – for example a change of thickness of

Long-term Performance

Regulations requirement for their application.

a cladding board from 25mm to 22 mm. There

Almost all help-desk referrals involve a

We also emphasise that the performance

are some who say this is irrelevant but it is not.

discussion about the pros and cons of the

claimed depends heavily on recommended

When it comes to the safety of those who will

different FR types (DI, HR and LR), the methods

application rates and/or film thicknesses being

use the building there can be no compromises

of application and the quality assurance of the

achieved. When such products are applied by

if the installation design differs from the

application process under the WPA Benchmark

brush or spray on site, fire performance can

manufacturers fire classification scope.

scheme to ensure fitness for purpose. In

only be assured when application is under an

addition we point out where other organisations

independent certification and accreditation

The golden rule is that if no Extended

like NHBC and National Building Specifications

scheme for installers.

Application Report is available then another

have discrete standards for FR performance

treatment must be chosen that does have

that call up WPA guidance on FR specification

the data relevant to the application. The

which are focused on industrial impregnation

other golden rule promoted by the WPA FR

to ensure long term performance.

help-desk is that specifiers also scrutinise the Fire Classification Reports and Certificates

Where there is interest in using a surface

for author/test house authenticity. Only Fire

coating, WPA urges specifiers to make

Classification Reports from valid Notified

absolutely certain (not least for professional

Bodies1 should be relied on to justify

liability reasons) that the coating they intend

specification of fire retardant products.

to specify has a Fire Classification Report from

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FR TREATMENT

Our FR help-desk has been established as a referral service for WPA members by providing generic guidance to individuals who are looking for help in understanding and specifying flame retardant treatments for wood.

It is based on the guidance published in the WPA Fire Retardant Specification Manual and on the fire protection section of the WPA website: www.wood-protection.org

65

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

IS YOUR FR PROTECTED TIMBER FIT FOR PURPOSE? The failure of fire retardant treatments to perform when a blaze breaks out could see the companies and individuals involved in the design and construction of the building brought before the courts. Jacqui Hughes, Fire Retardants Manager at Arch Timber Protection, outlines how to ensure that your fire retardant protected timbers are fully compliant.

Fire retardant (FR) treatments for any construction material are designed to do a very important job. Should a fire situation arise in a building, the protected materials will slow down combustion and limit the spread of flame and generation of smoke. They provide peace of mind for specifiers and designers by giving extra time to evacuate buildings, limit potential damage but, most importantly, they help save lives.

Any death caused in a building fire is a tragedy for those linked to the victim or victims. However, due to legislation such as the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 the ramifications can have severe consequences for any company or designer associated with the design and build of the project. A court of law

66

will want to know how fire protection systems were selected and whether there was adequate liaison between all the parties involved in making sure that the protection was appropriate.

So how can you be sure that your fire retardant protected timbers are fully compliant?

Fire Protection Due Diligence Failure to perform when required carries serious consequences. So it is important to carry out some simple due diligence to make sure that you can demonstrate that you made the correct decision. Firstly, ensure that any FR treatments from your suppliers have independent, species specific Classification Reports.

Fire retardant treatments for timbers to be used in permanent construction must now meet the

requirements of either Euroclass B or C of the European Standard EN 13501-1 to comply with both national Building Standards and the Construction Products Regulation. These requirements call for species-specific testing yet some fire retardant treatments are being promoted using non-species specific reports.

The fire performance of wood and wood based panels is highly species specific, with different species requiring different chemical retentions to derive the same level of fire protection.

Classification Reports supplied by treatment companies therefore must be species specific and reports that include generic terms such as ‘softwood’ and ‘plywood’ should be seriously questioned.

IS YOUR FR PROTECTED TIMBER FIT FOR PURPOSE?

It’s all about confidence.

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INTERIOR

INTERIOR

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INTERIOR Humidity Resistant type fire retardant for permanent interior applications.

EXTERIOR

INTERIOR

EXTERIOR Leach Resistant type fire retardant for permanent exterior applications.

EXTERIOR www.archfiretreatments.co.uk

@ArchTimberPro

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

Euroclass B being achieved on 25mm thick spruce cladding boards tested without an air gap on plasterboard, then the product cannot be assumed to confer the same reaction-to-fire performance for: • Timbers less than 25mm thick • Alternative species • With an air gap in place • Other backing materials deemed to be of higher risk

Industry Reference Bodies A key step for any specification of fire retardant treated timbers should be a reference to the UK Wood Protection Association (www.woodprotection.org) check list which gives general guidance and listings of approved products and quality treatment companies.

Then ensure these companies have independent and species specific Classification Reports, relevant to the timbers you are using and where and how they will be used. These should cover four particular requirements: the timber species; the thickness of the timber; whether there will be an air gap behind the timber and the nature of any backing materials. It is a duty of care for both specifiers and building control officers to demand this proof from the treatment supplier.

Other key factors to consider in the specification of fire retardant treated timbers are product performance and assurance; quality of application; durability and maintenance; and availability and cost.

The onus is on you as a specifier to ensure your supplier has a relevant and specific independent Classification Report to match your particular end use requirement.

Quality of Application If fire retardant treatments are required for new timbers going into a building then by far the most effective are those that are applied in factory controlled conditions. Traditionally the timbers or panel products are given a measured, controlled, highly effective and permanent built-in protection through pressure impregnated treatments that are automatically applied to all areas of the timber.

Fire has the highest level of attestation in Europe and a supplier of fire retardant pre-treated timbers must have an independently audited factory production control system in place, in accordance with ISO 9001, the international standard for quality management systems.

Also, for a supplier to be listed in the UK Wood Protection Association quality scheme for fire retardant treatments, suppliers again require this ISO 9001 accreditation.

Performance and Assurance Industrially-applied FR systems may claim to offer either Euroclass B or C rating to EN 13501-1. However, to support a Classification Report from an independent notified testing body, previous simple fire test reports are no longer sufficient. The description of the product or treatment given in the Classification Report has to be comparable with the exact specification of the timber components to be used in the project.

Durability and Maintenance When specifying you need to be assured that the fire retardant performance of the treated timbers will last in both interior and exterior end use applications. Well researched and specified FR timbers will provide a permanent fire protection within the timber structure that will not require further FR maintenance and are designed to meet the life of the building, providing effective and competitive life time value.

For example, if a Classification Report for a fire retardant product or treatment refers to

Availability and Cost There is always the temptation to change professional specifications from quality

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industrially applied fire retardant treated timbers to site applied or less accredited options because of tight deadlines or price considerations.

However, as the performance FR treated timber can be a matter of life and death, it is therefore paramount that professional contractors resist the low cost, low performance, on-site options and build realistic productions schedules into any specification to allow for adequate factory processing.

Profiling of timbers, kiln drying and product supply by timber merchants can sometimes take between 2-4 weeks. Professionally applied and controlled fire retardant impregnation treatments will be around 4 weeks to supply because of the preparation for treatment and careful re-drying afterwards, giving a total procurement lead time of 6-8 weeks.

As an option some leading merchants are now offering ready available stocks of popular species and profiles of pressure treated fire retardant timber claddings and panel products which may provide an alternative option.

However, be certain the specification meets your needs.

In terms of costs, controlled, factory applied treatments may be initially higher than onsite applied options. However, if the ‘whole life’ cost of the building and the timbers is considered in terms of regular maintenance and recoating required for some products, then the one-off pressure treatments then provide real value for money.

In summary, if you require a quality fire retardant protection for either interior or exterior timber applications that you can have real confidence in, then proven, factory applied treatments provide the answer. Controlled and end use specific protection with a ‘one-off’ and permanent protection which requires no further maintenance.

For more information visit: www.archfiretreatments.co.uk

IS YOUR FR PROTECTED TIMBER FIT FOR PURPOSE?

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015 CASE STUDY: Residential

Leith Walk: Hybrid Scheme for New Student Housing Ochil Timber Products has just completed delivery of high-performance SpaceRafters and SpaceJoists for the roof of a six-storey, steelframe, student housing development, currently being built at Shrubhill on Leith Walk.

The SpaceRafters and SpaceJoists for Shrubhill were designed and fabricated offsite in Ochil’s Denny factory, using sustainably sourced timber.

The completed building, for clients Ziggurat Student Living, will provide retail space on the ground floor and 260 student beds in a mix of studio flats and three, four, five and six-bedroom ‘cluster’ flats, which share communal kitchen and living space.

The design for the development was executed by CAG Architects, Leith. As it was in a conservation area, the building needed to present a traditional exterior to achieve planning consent and CAG’s successful design includes a traditional slated roof to the front, stone rainscreen cladding, and a streetfacing elevation which presents as a series of tenements, stepping down Leith Walk.

In terms of the roof structure, traditional mono-pitch rafters were initially specified, but in order to deliver the speed of construction needed, plus the long spans required, and to conserve the big roof voids, Ochil Timber’s SpaceRafters and SpaceJoists were selected.

In order to be ready for the new University intake in September 2015, a tight, 10-month build programme was put in place.

MD of Ochil Timber Andrew McAree commented: “By specifying SpaceRafter and SpaceJoist the client made significant savings in terms of time and labour as well as on the cost of metalwork.

SpaceRafter eliminated the need for joist hangers, the ‘packing out’ of steel and ensured ‘room-in-the-roof’ space was available by using a top-hung detail. I’m absolutely confident that this product could prove similarly useful across a range of buildings, particularly those where wide spans are needed, such as schools and commercial premises.”

Project Architect Gregor Small added: “Building this development in 10 months means that speed is of the essence and Ochil were very proactive and helpful in delivering both the detailed design and the manufactured components quickly. SpaceRafter also meant that the large roof voids were retained, something the client can use for future additional bedspaces.”

For more information visit: www.ochiltimber.com

CASE STUDY

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015 CASE STUDY: Residential

East Sands, St Andrews: Student Accommodation & Nursery East Sands development sits on the seafront in the historic setting of St Andrews in Scotland.

It comprises 135 student rooms, a children’s nursery with associated external playspace and an enhanced public open space connected to the Fife Coastal Path.

Specialist student accommodation developer Alumno Developments appointed the lead contractor Interserve to build the scheme.

Carson & Partners are engaged as Project Architect and have designed a scheme that pays close attention to context and the accommodation requirements.

The solution comprises a series of staggered linear buildings that are broken in mass by bold double gables and dormer windows forming the distinctive roofline which gives the proposals a strong sense of identity. Aesthetically these proposals use a familiar architectural language for St. Andrews by drawing on references to the surrounding traditional built form, whilst being contemporary.

Accommodation is split over three separate blocks, which are stepped from 1.5 storeys on the beachfront to 2.5 storeys behind. The blocks are offset in plan in both axes, to break down the visual mass, and offset in section to address the change in level across the site. This addresses the local council’s aspiration for a residentially proportioned gabled elevation on the approach whilst providing accommodation that maximizes the potential of the site.

The use of structural timber frame construction allows for ease and speed of construction that is well tested and established in Scotland on this domestic scale. As well as creating a thermally efficient external envelope the prefabricated panels have assisted in achieving the tight programme requirements during the construction. Large longitudinal beams allow for a combination of loose rafters and prefabricated roof trusses to form the contemporary roof profile containing rooms that command spectacular scenic views over the bay.

Over the entire nursery frontage a green roof canopy provides shelter from the physical elements and offers external privacy from the student rooms above. Internally the environment will be light and airy, with clean, clear spaces, plenty of natural daylight, good staff connection with public and play areas, and direct physical and visual connections between the internal and external spaces. All staff accommodation is located adjacent the entrance of the nursery with the kitchen and dining able to be used for teaching and accessible from classrooms - the teaching ethos encourages baking and making with the kitchen staff.

The soft landscaping of the streetscape, privacy planting, moulded open space and sedum roofs on each block ensure a continuity of dialogue between these green elements and successfully softens the appearance of the development on this sensitive coastal landmark site.

For more information visit: www.alumnodevelopments.com

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CASE STUDY

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015 CASE STUDY: Retail

Costa Coffee Telford: zero-energy retail outlet

Costa has been consistently reducing the energy usage within their new stores over the last few years and this development will mark a significant step forward in their endeavour to reduce their impact on the environment.

The project’s commencement saw the fruition of much hard work from all team members and should mark the start of a change in perception about sustainable commercial development.’

The new development, which will be built at Wrekin Retail Park in Telford, has been designed in collaboration with our friends at Emission Zero Architects. The structure will utilise our signature glulaminated timber frame technology along with many additional sustainable construction techniques. Fordingbridge were delighted to be part of the project team delivering the first zero energy retail building for the nation’s favourite coffeehouse chain – Costa Coffee.

The building’s architecture is designed

by Emission Zero to express its high environmental and energy performance.

The striking curved timber aesthetic creates a curved roof which will be covered by an extensive roof mounted photovoltaic array.

A scalloped canopy on the north elevation provides an al fresco dining space. A passive ventilation strategy has been introduced into both the facade and roof design which has been designed to account for the internal heat gains when the building is operational to ensure a comfortable internal environment is maintained throughout the year. All design elements have been carefully balanced to

Steve Toone, Managing Director said: ‘Fordingbridge were very proud to be part of the team working collaboratively on the new Costa Coffee building at Wrekin Retail Park, Telford.

provide a Zero Energy Building with Energy Performance Asset Rating of A+.

Fordingbridge are passionate about helping their customers make the most of their environments through a range of inspiring, sustainable standard and bespoke canopy, walkway and building solutions.

Costa operates more than 1,800 coffee shops across the UK. It is anticipated that lessons learned from the Eco Pod test bed at Telford will be incorporated into future new build stores, helping to drive down energy consumption across the business. Costa is part of Whitbread plc which is recognised as one of the most progressive and innovative UK companies for managing sustainability.

For more information visit: www.fordingbridge.co.uk

CASE STUDY

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015 CASE STUDY: Pioneering

Wonders in Wood: Plan B from Metsä Wood Kevin Riley, Sales Director at Metsä Wood UK, explains how the engineered timber specialist is helping “reimagine” the construction of some iconic buildings from the past, as well as being an innovator in the creation of new landmark projects.

which could be erected far faster and more cost effectively. Interestingly, the Kerto concept would not only allow larger spans, while maintaining such physical qualities as loadbearing capacity and fire resistance, but it would also create 12% additional space.

Historians have expended a lot of time and energy pondering how ancient structures such as the pyramids and Stonehenge were built without the use of equipment like cranes. Now though, Metsä Wood has embarked on a project it has named Plan B to explore, with the help of leading international consultants, how some of them might actually be improved upon.

Further underlining the unique design, manufacture and supply service available from Metsä Wood, the second subject in this retrospective is the Empire State Building, which was once the world’s tallest structure and represented a milestone in steel framing. Now, Michael Green of architects MGA and timber specialist, Equilibrium Consulting have shown it could stand just as tall in Kerto, while improving many aspects of its specification.

The first project is from the ancient world. The Colosseum in Rome, originally begun in 72 AD to hold 50,000 spectators, has been redesigned in Kerto® Laminated Veneered Lumber (LVL)

by Antti Laiho of Finnish Helin & Co Architects; along with Metsä Wood’s structural engineer, Jussi Bjorman.

Together they produced a new structural solution employing Kerto-S & Kerto-Q which mirrors the Colosseum’s elliptical form, as well as its arrangement of columns and beams; but

More recently Metsä Wood has been instrumental in the creation of some iconic new structures: building on Kerto’s proven track record and pedigree as the first LVL to be manufactured in Europe. They include the Metropol Parasol within Seville’s Plaza de la Incarnacion redevelopment. Completed in 2011, it has already become a new landmark for the city, housing an archaeological museum and other attractions.

Importantly as a European-wide business with dedicated design and contract support teams, Metsä Wood worked closely with the architects to help realise their concepts. Meanwhile the manufacturer is investing heavily to expand its capabilities, while making Kerto-Ripa® and other BIM families freely available to the design community.

As a major manufacturer with an international reputation and a highly sustainable product range possessing full chain of custody, Metsä Wood has the experience of working with leading architectural and structural engineering practices on a wide range of project types.

These include schools, hospitals and public buildings as well as many successful leisure, retail, residential and commercial developments. Given the durability of Kerto as a structural material, it seems certain that some of these will come to be regarded as architectural icons by future generations.

For more information on Plan B visit: www.metsawood.com/planb

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CASE STUDY

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

Optimised Hybrid Structures - CPD

Sustainable Structures – CPD

Don’t Compromise…Optimise!

Offering a complete package of material services, across a wide range of structural products including glulam, cross laminated timber, timber cassettes and steel frame, as part of their hybrid structural solutions - B & K Structures has an outstanding, award winning portfolio across a range of sectors.

Committed to research and innovation, the X-LAM Alliance are specialists in the design and delivery of sustainable cross laminated timber (CLT) structures across all construction sectors – from commercial and educational projects to medium rise residential accommodation.

By selecting the most effective combination of systems and materials to meet the brief and performance specification, B & K Structures, the UK’s leading sustainable frame contractor, specialise in the design, manufacture and delivery of optimised hybrid structures

With over 50 highly experienced and dedicated experts in structural analysis, building physics, planning and consultancy the X-LAM Alliance provide informative CLT CPD sessions.

Kingspan Timber Solutions is project and performance centric. Through an extensive product portfolio, focus is firmly on value engineering and performance. By using the ultimate combination of timber systems – Kingspan Timber Solutions deliver award winning hybrid structural timber solutions, optimised in terms of cost and performance.

With a collaborative culture, Kingspan Timber Solutions are dependable partners who, by using a combination of the highest performing materials, design, manufacture, assemble and project manage the construction of cuttingedge timber solutions.

For more information or book an Optimised Hybrid CPD session, please:

For more information or book a CLT CPD session, please:

For more information or to book a CPD please:

Call: 01773 853400 Email: sales@bkstructures.co.uk Visit: www.bkstructures.co.uk

Call: 01773 857512 Email: info@xlam-alliance.com Visit: www.xlam-alliance.com

Call: 01767 676400 Email: info@kingspantimbersolutions.com Visit: www.kingspantimbersolutions.co.uk

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE | ISSUE 04 | SUMMER 2015

New Guide to Timber Products fromTimbmet Timbmet, one of Europe’s major suppliers of timber and panel products, has released a new 96 page comprehensive ‘‘Timber Product Guide’. The company has been supplying timber to the UK market for over 70 years and has an industry leading breadth of offer.

Aside from more than 30 hardwood species (most of which are FSC® or PEFC certified), Timbmet also provides a wide range of Manufacturing Services, including bespoke mouldings and fire retardant products.

The Timber Product Guide details all of these, includes technical information on the timber species available, and in addition contains information on the Timbmet Flooring collection, and Timbmet Engineered Components (TEC®).

To order a copy of the guide, or to discuss the company’s range of timber and panel products, contact its sales team on t: 01865 860350 or email oxfsales@timbmet.com.

The Timber Product Guide is available to view online at www.tinyurl.com/timberbrochure

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