Timber Construction Magazine Issue 16 Summer 2021

16

SUMMER 2021 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2515–8686 (PRINT)

PIVETEAUBOIS  16 CHANGING THE TIMBER MINDSET  22

HOUSEBUILDING HIGHLIGHTS  28

Vastern Timber’s Tom Barnes on homegrown wood, thermal modification and market forces

AIMCH publishes its second-year progress report on timber homes and better placemaking

Image © Alexa Phillips

A range of French timber solutions deliver a beautiful home on the River Tamar

Are you an engineering or architecture student and want to measure yourself against design professionals? Take part in the competition and design your timber multi-storey structure with our most innovative products! You can win a tour that will start from our Italian headquarters and will end with the participation in the Mass Timber Seminar and the prestigious Forum Holzbau in Innsbruck, two of the most important events in the world of timber construction.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE CHALLENGE? buildtheimpossible.rothoblaas.com

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  ISSUE 16 CONTENTS

02

12

14

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

16

18

The latest news and views from across the industry.

The Key to Net Zero...........................................................12 John Smith, technical director at Stewart Milne Timber Systems, highlights why a ‘fabric first’ approach is the best solution for the housebuilding industry to become carbon neutral by 2050.

Image © Alexa Phillips

Reducing Energy Consumption....................................14 The UK’s net zero targets can only be achieved if its housing stock is improved and made more energy efficient. One Yorkshire developer is doing just that with the help of specialist insulation.

20

22

26

28

Cover Story: PIVETEAUBOIS..........................................16 Working with a specialist timber framing company, PIVETEAUBOIS used a range of engineered timber products to create a beautiful home at Wier Quay on the banks of the River Tamar in South West England.

Showcasing Structural Timber......................................18 James Jones & Sons have just completed a new dynamic, functional and attractive timber visitor building at its flagship Lockerbie site.

Measuring Value.................................................................20 Today’s modified woods are able to meet many of the constituents of value now being demanded by specifiers and are easily available to provide a range of construction solutions.

Changing the Timber Mindset......................................22 Vastern Timber is the largest hardwood saw-milling company in the UK. We spoke to managing director, Tom Barnes about homegrown wood, thermal modification and supply and demand.

Boards of Protection..........................................................26 Engineered wood-based panel products have many flexible functions including construction site security.

Managing Editor: Terry Hanlon

Registered address:

 terry.hanlon@timbermedia.co.uk

73 Cross Lane, Newton-Le-Willows,

 01925 270093

Merseyside WA12 9QA

Artwork: Pete Awad  artwork@timbermedia.co.uk

Company registered in England and

AIMCH Publish Progressive Results...........................28

Follow Timber Media:

Wales. Company Number 10839173.

AIMCH, the innovation consortium set up to transform the housebuilding sector, has published its second-year progress report.

 @Timber_Media

VAT registration number 271 5498 81.

The Perfect Partner for the Timber Industry combilift.com Timber Trader UK magazine 185 x 62 Liz May2021.indd 1

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Southwark Council gives hybrid timber tower green light Transport for London (TfL) has been given the go-ahead by

hybrid timber towers in the UK, allowing it to also achieve industry-leading

Southwark Council to build what is set to be one of the most

embodied carbon reductions of 40% compared to LETI’s business-as-usual

sustainable large-scale office developments in the UK above

benchmark. The building will be the first designed globally to directly

Southwark Tube station.

extract waste heat from the Tube station below to help heat it and

The 17-storey hybrid timber building, which has been designed by

minimise its energy consumption. Alongside next-generation air source

architects, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, forms part of TfL’s commercial

heat pumps, solar panels and high-performance building materials, the

development programme. It will be rented out on a commercial basis,

development will achieve a 44% reduction in operational carbon emissions.

helping TfL to create sustainable and long-term revenue that can be

Combined with green power purchasing agreements and carbon offsets,

reinvested into the transport network. Positioned above Southwark

the building will achieve net zero at practical completion and enable its

Tube station, the scheme will retain the much-loved station entrance,

tenants to reduce their environmental footprint.

ticket hall, and lightwells down to the Jubilee line platforms while paying homage to TfL’s legacy of innovative and iconic design.

The scheme will create a new landmark for the area, providing

Scott Anderson, Head of Property Development at TfL, said: “Sustainability has been a core focus during the development process, alongside meaningful community engagement, to make sure that we

around 26,500sqm of commercial office space alongside more than

build something that will make a long-term, beneficial difference as

230sqm of retail space on the ground floor. The development, which

the city and businesses embark upon a green recovery. Down to the

is anticipated to be completed in the mid-2020s, will offer a central

construction materials used for the building and the placement of

London base to a range of businesses and industries that are looking to

colours, the development’s features have been chosen to reflect and

be part of London’s green recovery.

complement the local area and make it something TfL, Southwark and

The development has been designed to showcase best practice

the local community can be proud of.”

in sustainable design and development. Designed to achieve both

Paul Monaghan, Founding Director at Allford Hall Monaghan Morris,

BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum certifications, a feat achieved

added: “We are delighted that the proposal has received planning

by only one building in the UK to date, the scheme will stand among

approval. This project will see the creation of new office and retail

the most sustainable office buildings in the world. It will also achieve

spaces – including affordable workspace – and bring new opportunities

net zero carbon in line with United Kingdom Green Building Council and

to the local area. The building includes a range of low carbon

London Energy Transformation Initiative definitions through a number

innovations and aims to achieve the highest environmental standards.

of outstanding environmental features.

We look forward to working with TfL on the next stage of the project.

At 75m tall with a cross laminated timber (CLT) design, the over More at  www.tfl.gov.uk  www.ahmm.co.uk

station development at Southwark would become one of the tallest

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Introducing the new

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

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

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IN-DEPTH FEATURES

UPCOMING EVENTS

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VISIT THE NEW SITE

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

TTF launch new member CCPI guide The Timber Trade Federation (TTF) has launched a detailed guide for its members to the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI), including six key steps to assure business processes related to providing information and customer training are in line with the aspirations of the currently voluntary Code. The CCPI, due to start rolling out across the construction products sector during the summer, requires that product information provided through every channel, online and offline, in print and in person, adheres to five ‘acid tests’ and is: clear, accurate, unambiguous, up-to-date and accessible. It also requires that those preparing and presenting

undertaken some time ago, and will be updating guidance on people

information are competent ‘to the level required for their role’.

competence for the 21st century business world. We will be involving

“The Code takes a rigorous stance on the provision of product information and the competence of all those interacting with that

and reporting back to members regularly as this next phase of our engagement with CCPI progresses.”

information day-to-day,” says David Hopkins, TTF CEO. “We wish to make More at  www.ttf.co.uk

sure that our members are aware of the depth of its requirements, and, even if not directly in the path of its initial wave of implementation, are ready to service their customers with unambiguous information, with product claims clearly backed up, and purveyed by provably-competent people, capable of giving requisite advice.

“Many TTF members provide their customers with information,

DO WE LIKE TIMBER?

imagery and also training, particularly for customers in the builders’ merchant and specification sectors. Demonstrating the alignment of their business processes with those set down in the Code will help to show that they are operating to the highest standards of ethical and communications behaviour. This in turn breeds trust and confidence amongst all those working with our sector, underlining the principle of supplying ‘timber you can trust’.”

TTF’s Guide to the CCPI is available only to members by logging into the member area of the TTF website. In addition to the basic guide, for those smaller companies who perhaps may not have systems in place to document the production, provision and regular review of information, a simple spreadsheet is provided for members to adapt. Although many TTF members have HR systems in place and policies which deal with questions of ethical behaviour and whistle blowing, again for those

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

who may need a starting point, TTF has also created an accompanying business ethics tool and decision ‘tree’, for members to use or re-

planning your next marketing campaign drop me

formulate to reflect their own business practices and needs.

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

“In the light of the Grenfell tragedy, and the subsequent work

call me on 01925 270093. Magazine advertising,

of the Construction Leadership Council and Construction Products

e-marketing, web advertising and our new

Association in improving operating methods within construction, we are encouraging all members to ensure that they have documented

comprehensive Products & Services listings can all

systems around information creation, its use in sales, marketing and

be found on our website www.timbermedia.co.uk

training throughout their supply chains, and around the competency of their people.

“We are additionally launching a review of job roles, mapped against available training and qualifications, reigniting work originally

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Wood Awards launches 2021 call for entries The Wood Awards: Excellence in British

been rising year upon year and it is a great

Architecture and Product Design has now

privilege to be able to assess, and learn from, the

launched its 2021 call for entries. Anyone

many exemplar projects being put forward for

involved in a UK-based wood project is invited

consideration.”

to enter and has until 25 June to submit their

The 2021 buildings categories will be confirmed

applications. There is no entry fee.

later this year, but they are likely to be Commercial

Established in 1971, the Wood Awards

& Leisure, Education & Public Sector, Interiors,

recognises, encourages and promotes outstanding

Private and Small Project. Other awards, such as

wood design, craftsmanship and installation

Structural and Existing Building awards, can be

throughout the UK. The Wood Awards’ elite

given at the judges’ discretion. With permission

independent judging panel not only judges all

from the owner, anyone associated with a building

submitted entries but also visits the shortlisted

or product completed in the last two years, can

projects in person, making the Wood Awards a

enter. Buildings must be located within the UK

uniquely rigorous competition. The Awards are split

whilst furniture and other products must have been

into two main categories: Furniture and Product and

either designed or manufactured in the UK. There

Buildings. The Gold Award is given to the project that the judges deem to be the winner of winners.

are no restrictions on the size or budget of a project.

Image © Jack Hobhouse

Entrants may submit more than one project.

Jim Greaves of Hopkins Architects has been

The 2021 shortlist will be announced in

appointed as chair of buildings judges, saying: “Having been a judge for

September. The Wood Awards has ambitious plans for a novel and

the last 17 years it is a great honour to be asked to chair the buildings

exciting finale to the competition, details of which will be announced

panel. Despite restrictive regulatory and insurance challenges, wood

in due course. Major Sponsors of the Wood Awards 2021 are American

has become an increasingly important construction material and it

Hardwood Export Council, The Carpenters’ Company and Timber Trade

is now often the first choice for architects, designers, engineers and

Federation. Other sponsors include American Softwoods and TRADA.

developers, offering lower carbon, biophilic, and regenerative solutions.

More at  www.woodawards.com

As a consequence, the standard of entries for the Wood Awards has

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Digital adoption accelerated among SME wood manufacturers Made Smarter’s technology adoption programme is deploying smart

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

glasses to SME wood manufacturers to virtually fast track their

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

digital adoption strategies and navigate Covid-19 restrictions.

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

The wearable device enables technology specialists from Made

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Made Smarter has different types of smart glasses to suit different

a business identify the most effective technologies to overcome their

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

operational challenges.

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

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

connectivity if there are WiFi or network coverage challenges. They

watch each manufacturing operation being performed in order. This

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

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

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

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

connected through Remote Eye software which enables a live stream

bespoke operation. The introduction of smart glasses has enabled

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

Made Smarter to overcome access restrictions and limitations caused

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

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

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

manufacturer’s digital transformation. It also gives manufacturers a

real time.

valuable opportunity to test how this emerging technology could be used in their business.

Digital transformation workshops identify other ways the Made Smarter programme can support a manufacturer including: fully-funded

Will Kinghorn, industrial digital technology advisor for Made

digital technology internships to help implement projects and bring

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

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

transformation workshops to continue delivery when in-person visits

about workforce development and skills and funding for new digital

were not possible. This approach has helped 141 manufacturers

tools and technologies such as data and systems integration, robotics

engage in a streamlined process designed to accelerate manufacturing

and automation or additive manufacturing.

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

operational processes.

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Combilift scoops 10th major Archie award Combilift, the Irish manufacturer of a wide range of handling solutions, has won its 10th prestigious industry award from the Forklift Truck Association for one of its latest products. The 2020 FLTA Awards for Excellence took place virtually on Saturday 10 April.

The recently introduced Combi-CBE model – the world’s first counterbalance design, multidirectional forklift with electric drive on all of its three wheels, was one of the twelve finalists in the hotly

efficiency and AC drive means that there are no mechanical brushes to

contested Innovation Category. According to the host of this year’s

maintain or replace.

Awards, “This is the category that everyone wants to win, as you get to

Combining the benefits of very compact dimensions and the ability

feel incredibly clever.” So Combilift was immensely proud that the jury

to handle long loads as well as pallets, the multidirectional Combi-CBE

singled it out as the outright winner.

is a universal truck for multiple applications and offers cost-effective

The Combi-CBE features internationally patented electric traction

and efficient operation. It also answers growing market demand for

which enables independent control of each of the front and rear drive

powerful and quieter electric forklifts which comply with ever more

wheels and guarantees 100% traction control, which negates the need

stringent emissions guidelines. Combilift CEO and co-founder Martin

for differential lock when it is operating on wet or slippery surfaces. As

McVicar said: “Innovation is a cornerstone of Combilift’s product

the truck drives and steers, the speed and rotational direction of the

development and, given the large number of excellent finalists this

wheels are controlled independently. Operators benefit from precise

year, we would like to thank the FLTA jury of industry experts for

acceleration and deceleration control, which significantly reduces long

recognising our achievements.”

load momentum twisting when travelling sideways. Each electric drive More at  www.www.combilift.com

incorporates parking and regenerative dynamic braking for power

Berry Systems design and install cladding for Colchester Hospital car park vertical fins were sourced from PEFC and FSC certified suppliers, offering a 30-year warranty against fungal decay. The car park required some specific industry standards associated with adjacent structures, using their extensive range of supply chain contacts, Berry managed to find a suitable composite panel system to achieve the employers’ requirements.

“It was fantastic to work alongside Ballast Nedam Parking on this project at Colchester Hospital,” says James Fildes, bid and proposals Manager at Berry Systems. “We used our specialist knowledge in cladding to install over 1,500 timber fins to transform the exterior aesthetics of the car park. One major benefit of using the selected composite panel product was that its flexibility in design meant we could fix the timber fins onto the outside cladding to maintain a consistent appearance for the entire perimeter of the car park, and successfully delivering the employers requirements.

“Early contractor engagement is a key function to delivering projects on time and on budget. With the service offering from Berry Systems and commitment to the transport and infrastructure When the demand for additional staff car parking spaces at

sector, we aim to excel in meeting client expectations, with continual

Colchester Hospital created the need for an extra level to be added,

improvements and business development being a key focus to servicing

Berry Systems were employed to design, supply and install the

our clients. The Colchester Hospital project shows our ability to take

cladding with very specific safety and aesthetic requirements to

advantage of our extensive industry knowledge to provide suitable car

meet. An extra 152 spaces have been created by the project

parking solutions and install them to an exceptional standard.”

The main contractors, Ballast Nedam Parking, called upon Berry More at  www.berrysystems.co.uk

for the timber cladding for the car park. Over 1,500 Brunnea-treated

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Image © Frank Shaw Associates Limited

Stora Enso helps to accelerate sustainable schools from concept to reality Industry experts from the architecture, construction and education

performance exist, as does a miseducation on cost-effectiveness. Dayo

industry gathered recently to discuss how wood can successfully be

ShittuBalogun, Associate at EURBAN, one important enabler of the

used as a building material to create sustainable learning environments.

webinar and official partner from Stora Enso, provided insight: “We’re

Hosted by Stora Enso in collaboration with The B1M, the webinar

coming across a lot of risk aversion as people still consider wood

showcased the award-winning case study of the Northstowe Learning

construction as a new way of doing things. There is some miseducation

Community in Cambridgeshire, UK, a 15,000m2 project that utilised

on cost. People consider it to be a bit more expensive, but through

cross laminated timber (CLT) to meet sustainability targets and provide

some benchmarking work we established that if you’re talking in

an inspiring and healthy space for students.

simplistic terms, the structural skeleton of a building is either equal or

The UK government’s hardening of the carbon emissions reduction target, from 68% to 78% by 2035 puts an increasingly acute focus

cheaper – and more work needs to be done to communicate that this is the case.”

on how industries can support this ambition. Rory Doak, business

When looking at the path forward for sustainable school

development manager UK & Ireland at Stora Enso said: “The biggest

construction in light of the Northstowe project, ShittuBalogun, added,

impact (of the Northstowe project) is that there’s nearly 3,000

“We all have a commitment to not pour more CO2 into the atmosphere

tons of CO2 stored in the building that’s not getting put back into

than we take out of it, so there is a moral obligation for all of us

the atmosphere.” Pair this with the reduction of up to 75% of CO2

across the industry – and where better to see this play out than in an

emissions that can be achieved using wooden construction methods

educational setting? This is exactly what we like to do, deliver buildings

versus concrete and steel processes, and it’s clear to see how building

efficiently and sustainably.”

with wood can contribute to this journey.

Fred Mills, co-founder of The B1M, and webinar moderator,

Also touching on the biophilic design nature of wood, the panellists

added, “Construction methods have the power to truly effect people’s

shared insights on its positive impact on the health and well-being

lives. It perhaps doesn’t get more important than thinking about this

of children as studies have shown that the material can improve

in the context of where future generations are learning. Wooden

concentration and reduce stress. With return to classrooms post-

school projects create amazing spaces for schooling, both from an

pandemic in motion, this will be an incredibly important factor for

environmental, health and well-being point of view. The task now, is to

educational authorities and construction players to consider.

raise awareness of how concepts can be moved to an implementable

Despite the benefits of wood as a strong, versatile, and sustainable

reality and Northstowe is a fantastic example of this.”

material, the webinar also assessed the barriers to adopting CLT as More at  www.storaenso.com

a construction material. For example, concerns around technical

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

DC Timber Systems in the frame in East Kilbride Timber frame kits specialist DC Timber Systems has secured its first project with homebuilder CALA Homes (West) providing timber frame for its upcoming development Sequoia Meadows at Jackton, East Kilbride.

The timber kit firm, which was launched in 2020 and is based in Dundonald in Ayrshire, is set to manufacture, and supply timber frame for 24 apartments located on the development. Although this is the first project between CALA Homes (West) and DC Timber Systems, The JR Group – of which DC Timber is a part of – has worked with the homebuilder for many years and will support DC Timber on the project by erecting the timber frame on-site, with JR Specialist Services carrying out full joinery services and JR Scaffold supporting with the scaffolding infrastructure.

Ian Samson, managing director for DC Timber Systems, said: “We are delighted to work with CALA Homes (West) on its newest development at Jackton, East Kilbride. As this is our first project

great benefit to our partners. By accessing all our services, timing and

with the homebuilder, we really want to showcase the quality of our

delivery is seamless, there is one point of contact and the same team is

product, our smooth process and our level of service. We hope this will

on the ground to see the job through to completion.”

be the first of many projects between DC Timber Systems and CALA Homes (West).”

Robert Lafferty, site manager for CALA Homes (West) at Sequoia Meadows, added: “We have a comprehensive procurement process

John Horne, managing director of The JR Group added: “We have

to ensure our building partners and suppliers meet our high levels of

worked with CALA Homes (West) for many years, so we are thrilled

quality and finish. We were impressed with DC Timber Systems and by

to see the timber frame arm of our business have the opportunity to

The JR Group’s comprehensive offering here and we look forward to

work with them on the Jackton project. CALA is amongst the first to

progressing with the project.”

benefit from our ability to offer a one-stop-shop. Our group setup and More at  www.cala.co.uk

specialisms are designed to accommodate projects exactly like this with

Clancy acquires structural timber frame specialist DBM Consultants Clancy Consulting has expanded its structural engineering service by acquiring Scottish based DBM Consultants. Formed in 1984, DBM initially provided structural engineering design and inspection services to Lanarkshire and Central Scotland before expanding into timber frame design upon the appointment of Gordon Megahy into family business five years later. By providing a full engineering service to timber frame manufacturers, the business has been focused on developments across Scotland and England of a construction value of up to £20 million, predominantly working on newbuild and extensions

of construction and energy efficiency within our schemes. It sits seamlessly

in the residential, student living and healthcare sectors.

with our aspirations for the built environment and the contribution we can

A respected specialist in this area of work and member of the

make as part of the climate emergency our world faces.”

Structural Timber Association (STA), Gordon Megahy has grown the

Gordon Megahy, Managing Director at DBM Consultants added:

business over the years with the driving ambition to produce the most

“This is an exciting next chapter for us. DBM was founded by my father

environmentally responsible buildings. In addition to traditional timber

and the values, culture and key focus on client partnerships is very much

frames, he and the team are also skilled in structural insulated panel

aligned to the Clancy ethos. It’s a great opportunity to further expand

construction methods and glulam structures.

timber frame solutions in the marketplace and I’m excited to develop the

Neil Orrock, director at Clancy Consulting said: “Bringing onboard

team’s potential within the framework of a national multi-disciplinary

specialist expertise from Gordon and his team is the perfect fit to enhance

engineering practice, whilst still maintaining our local roots in Scotland.”

the skills and resource within Clancy. Offering our clients offsite fabrication

The DBM team will leave their Motherwell office and relocate to the

allows for speed of construction and accuracy during delivery stages

Clancy Glasgow office, with Gordon joining as divisional director.

however, most importantly, this highly sustainable and thermally efficient More at  www.clancy.co.uk

solution is a significant step in expanding our drive towards modern methods

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FEATURE  FABRIC FIRST

The Key to Net Zero John Smith, technical director at Stewart Milne Timber Systems (SMTS), highlights why a ‘fit and forget’ and ‘fabric first’ approach is the best solution for the housebuilding industry to become carbon neutral by 2050.

S

ince 1975, SMTS has promoted the use of a fabric first,

and continuously throughout their lifetime. At SMTS

fit and forget approach to construction. It is not a new

we have developed build systems that can provide

concept, but it is absolutely one which, now more than

U-values as low as 0.13W/m2K. So, when it comes to meeting the

ever, is crucial in fulfilling the large housing gap and

2050 net zero target, as well as being commercially viable – there really

achieving net zero by 2050. Sustainability and eco-friendly practices

is no comparison to timber frame solutions.

have moved from being ‘nice-to-have’ to being an essential part

Structural timber has the lowest overall carbon dioxide footprint

of every business across all sectors and, as one of the UK’s largest

of any building material and, on average, replacing just one cubic

industries, construction has a key part to play in creating a system

metre of concrete with timber in construction can save a tonne of CO2

where circularity and sustainability take precedence in the supply

emissions.

chain.

Our Sigma® II Build System, developed over 10 years ago as part of

Additionally, Covid-19 has impacted significantly on household

the Sigma® home at BRE in Watford, the UK’s first zero carbon home,

finances and further highlights the UK’s need for new affordable

was an integral part of A2Dominion’s Bicester Eco Village development

housing stock to be built quickly and at volume, all while meeting

– the UK’s first eco town – and is the perfect example of the fit and

green targets and delivering significant cost savings. Although the

forget approach and all it can do for communities, residents and the

pandemic has posed major challenges for the industry, it has also

planet.

With an aim to deliver the most sustainable living in the UK for its

offered opportunities to pause, take stock, and consider the adoption of fresh initiatives that drive better efficiency. And when it comes to

residents, by using this system, 94 homes in the eco-village benefited

efficient building systems, it is hard to beat ‘fit and forget’ timber frame

from greater thermal properties and lower energy consumption,

solutions.

resulting in highly fuel and energy efficient dwellings. Our Sigma®

By adopting timber frame solutions, the speed of on-site

II product takes ‘whole life costing’ into account, as well as risk and

construction increases rapidly, with the possibility for homes to be

homeowner impact. When building with timber frame, a home can

installed and made watertight in a matter of days, saving costs for

be designed as one integrated system with a fabric first approach as

housebuilders. A fabric first approach is vital in maintaining the lifelong

energy efficiency is locked into the home’s core; without a reliance on

performance of the building. Energy-saving can be seen from the

micro-renewable bolt-ons which require regular maintenance and are

moment materials are sourced, until they are installed in the final build,

likely to need replacing during the life of the building.

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FEATURE  FABRIC FIRST

Ultimately, a fabric first approach will save the homeowners money and give them peace of mind that their home will deliver the designed energy performance. As we know, timber has superior energy efficiency and low embodied carbon, meaning homes are naturally warm in winter and yet still cool in summer, allowing residents to enjoy the benefits of better energy efficiency, air quality and exacting fabric quality which is built to last.

As well as the benefits of a fabric first approach to energy efficient homes, utilising an offsite manufactured timber frame build solution also provides homeowners with confidence in the quality of the building fabric, and that the energy performance of the home will be in-line with the design intent. By considering the whole life costing and the environmental impact of home building, alongside our development partners involved in Bicester Eco Village, we were able to design one of the most exciting, high quality and sustainable villages in the UK. As an industry, we know that changes must be made to play our part in creating a better world and to counter the impact of global warming in a more meaningful way, and the most effective way to do this is from the outset, with a fabric first mentality that addresses the whole-life issues head on. Timber frame solutions developed through offsite construction are one of the few processes within the industry right now that couples true energy efficiency throughout its value chain with financial benefits for suppliers and consumers which will aid in making a true and significant contribution towards the construction industry achieving the 2050 net zero goal.

We have a lot to contend with as we navigate the post-Covid recovery, fight climate change and consider political and economic changes which will inevitably impact our industry. However, making changes now, from the ground up, will future-proof construction businesses, provide a commercial advantage and develop a better world for communities throughout the UK. More at  www.stewartmilnetimbersystems.com

 Bicester Eco Town A2Dominion’s development in North West Bicester is a 393-

Timber systems were therefore an ideal fit for the priorities of

home project, aiming to deliver the most sustainable living in

the ambitious task at hand.

The project at Bicester was the UK’s first eco town, designed

the UK for its residents. With the homes designed to achieve true zero carbon rating, delivering energy efficient, good

SMTS worked with A2Dominion and Willmott Dixon, the main

quality affordable housing is crucial

contractor, to provide its Sigma® II Build System for 94 of the

to the success of the project.

to achieve high standards of environmental sustainability.

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first 393 homes as part of the ‘Exemplar’ phase of the project.

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FEATURE  FABRIC FIRST

Reducing Energy Consumption The UK’s net zero targets can only be achieved if its housing stock is improved and made more energy efficient. One Yorkshire developer is doing just that with the help of specialist insulation.

F

our years ago, Leeds-based sustainable developer Citu

Supafil Frame can be run by a single operator, fits easily into the

set out to create homes 10 times more energy efficient

existing production line, and can even be moved quickly and swiftly to

than typical UK houses. To do this, the company invested

other areas in the manufacturing facility depending on Citu’s volume

in a state-of-the-art production facility where all the

capacity requirements. Knauf Insulation’s technical support team

components for its properties are built offsite.

provided full training and support during each phase of installation.

Thermal performance is critical to energy efficiency. Citu wanted to go far beyond the regulations to achieve wall build-ups with an extremely

Insulating the panels

low U-value of just 0.10W/m2K. This is at least three times better than

Citu homes are manufactured from timber panels with a 300mm cavity.

the U-value achieved in most new build homes and fifteen times better

The blowing plate is positioned over the panel completely covering the cavity.

than older houses. Citu turned to Knauf Insulation for advice and support

Supafil is then blown into the wooden frame to the specific parameters of

in developing the offsite capability required for this level of thermal

each panel. All cavities are filled to the correct thickness: something that

performance. Knauf Insulation’s technical support team undertook extensive

has been carefully calculated and tested by the Knauf Insulation to ensure

calculations and recommended the Blowing Plate Insulation System to install

settlement does not occur. And because the machine is programmed to

Supafil Frame – a high performance, non-combustible blowing wool.

install the exact quantity of insulation required, there’s no waste.

Supafil Blowing Wool lends itself to offsite production because

Supafil is a high-performance Blowing Wool. It is non-combustible

it completely fills the cavity, without any voids even around complex

with Euroclass A1 Reaction to Fire Classification rating as well as

penetrations – something that can occur when insulation slabs or rolls are

providing excellent thermal and acoustic performance. It contains

cut to size. It is also a dry process, so operatives are not exposed to any

a silicone-based additive to ensure it is water repellent. As well as

harmful chemicals and it doesn’t require a dedicated production line. Instead,

providing excellent thermal performance, Supafil has great sustainability

the system comprises a blowing machine and a filling plate. The system is

credentials. Knauf Insulation’s glass mineral wool contains up to 80% of

modular allowing for phased investment. Citu opted to install the blowing

recycled content. This reduces the amount of virgin materials used and

machine in phase one, which allowed them to manually fill the panels. Phase

prevents around 60,000 tonnes of glass a year (350 million bottles) from

two saw the addition of the blowing plate, semi-automating the process.

going to landfill or polluting the environment.

Knauf Insulation has also invested in advanced compression packaging. This means

 Low Carbon Homes

there’s less packaging used, so fewer lorries on the roads leading to a reduction in transport

The Citu Home uses a timber framed

carbon emissions. All of which helps to support

design, so each house stores 23

Citu’s goal that every home should be carbon

tonnes of carbon and prevents and

zero to manufacture. By combining modern

prevents the emissions of 88 tonnes of

methods of construction with the very highest

carbon dioxide, compared to building

levels of thermal performance, Citu and Knauf

an equivalent masonry house. That’s

Insulation are creating homes that reduce

roughly the same as taking 19 cars of the road for one year. Older houses have U-values of

energy consumption and carbon emissions –

around 1.5 W/(m2K). Typical newbuilds are around 0.3-0.6 W/(m2K). The walls in Citu houses

homes that are fit for the future.

achieve U-values of 0.1 W/(m2K). When combined with the Citu homes’ other features it means energy requirements are between 7 and 10 times lower than the UK average house.

More at  www.citu.co.uk  www.knaufinsulation.co.uk

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COVER STORY  PIVETEAUBOIS

A View to a Thrill Wier Quay is a beautiful house built on the banks of the River Tamar, near Tavistock in South West England and features a range of timber products from leading French supplier PIVETEAUBOIS. Image © P.M. Phillips

T

he new timber-based home was designed for clients

A range of timber systems and products were considered from

Mike and Susan Philips, both of whom knew the area

traditional oak framing to Canadian Tamarack Larch, as well as a wide

well, being keen boating enthusiasts. The plot originally

range of techniques from traditional mortice and tenon through to

contained a concrete bungalow that had served the

CNC-machining and modern stainless steel connectors. The materials

couple well as a weekend getaway, providing them with the perfect

that were eventually chosen were Pine cross laminated timber (CLT)

spot to sail and steam on the river. Having now retired, they desired

floor, walls and roof contained within a visible Douglas Fir glulam frame

a more comfortable and attractive house where they could stay for

– all supplied by PIVETEAUBOIS. The CLT panels and glulam frame were

longer and enjoy the countryside and all the river offered.

CNC-manufactured in a precision factory environment at the company’s

To create the successful home a collaborative design phase went

main production site in Sainte-Florence, France, with a small amount of

into great detail with the client to choose the appropriate materials

on-site carpentry required to finish the joints, fit metal connectors, and

to realise the concept. Wooden House, a specialist timber framing

profile some of the timbers before being raised into position.

company from the South West of England, John Pardey an awardwinning architectural practice and PIVETEAUBOIS, worked together closely, with the aim of all involved to create a wonderful home but also a

“A unique aspect of the house was the use of visible Pine CLT for the walls. This is something that is rarely seen in the UK and gives the house a very distinctive feel.”

healthier environment for their client.

“We see our work as humanistic – “This was a super project to be involved with,” says Elisabeth

modern, but tempered by a love of place, traditions and materials – we aim for timelessness in our buildings,” says John Pardey. “On all projects

Piveteau-Boley, export sales manager UK & Ireland. “The team worked

– regardless of scale or budget – we firstly understand the vision and

together so well to achieve the design brief and the vision of the

objectives of the client and then work very hard to explore options

client. A unique aspect of the house was the use of visible Pine CLT

to find a solution that exceeds expectations yet remains practical,

for the walls. This is something that is rarely seen in the UK and gives

achievable and lasting. We always endeavour to use natural materials

the house a very distinctive feel. It is a great showcase for this timber

to make buildings that work and wear well and provide a richness and

species. Alongside our sapwood free Douglas fir glulam and Pine CLT,

resonance that endures.”

we also supplied grey pressure-treated Douglas Fir cladding, so it

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COVER STORY  PIVETEAUBOIS

Image © P.M. Phillips

Image © P.M. Phillips

really benefited the client that the architect and timber installer could

“A combination of location, brilliant design and choice of materials

source all the timber components required for the project from a single

made this job a joy to work on,” says Will Bateman, design director at

supplier. It makes everything so much easier and efficient when you are

Wooden House. “Despite the initial set-back regarding access we were

dealing with one single company.”

easily able manage the problem and quickly turned it to our advantage,

The whole house was positioned a short distance from the banks

something we pride ourselves on. Our partners and team worked so hard

of the River Tamar on a large steel frame that lifted the property

to realise the Phillips’s dream and it’s wonderful to see it completed and

above possible flood waters. The main problem encountered was that

we know they are going to have many happy times at Weir Quay.”

the narrow lane that led down to the site from the main road meant

“Sustainable construction is very important to us,” adds Elisabeth.

that the articulated lorries delivering the frame to site would not be

“Not only do projects like this show how flexible timber can be as a

able to access it easily. The solution saw the use of a local unoccupied

building material and meet the huge requirements of low-carbon,

factory where the frame was unloaded and stored and where any

energy efficient construction, but it is perfect in creating a natural,

final necessary carpentry could be completed. The CLT floor was

organic setting that provides that sense of wellbeing and calmness that

installed first, before the walls and frames were erected in three

we have all be searching for in recent months.”

sections. The roof was then lifted by crane and dropped into position.

Despite minor setbacks the entire frame was erected and complete in

For more information visit  www.piveteaubois.com/en

just nine days.

 www.woodenhouse.ltd  www.johnpardeyarchitects.com

 French CLT, glulam and cladding PIVETEAUBOIS is a leading French sawmiller and manufacturer of timber products for the construction, landscaping and energy sectors. Our passion for wood has always driven the family mission – to build a durable and sustainable world by making the most of every tree. Construction accounts for 60% of PIVETEAUBOIS’s sawn production with an annual production of glulam, glued solid timber and finger-jointed timber of 50,000m3 plus cladding production of 700,000m2. Sapwood-free Douglas Fir glulam is in strong demand as it offers the same UC3.2 natural durability, mechanical resistance and

Image © P.M. Phillips

visual aesthetics as Larch at a lower cost. Grey treated Douglas Fir is increasingly popular while Durapin UC4 treated Pine glulam (brown or green) is used in high risk exterior environments with lamella being

pressure-treated Pine with lamella pre-pressure treated to UC4.

pre-treated to UC4 before bonding. All our glulam can be machined

All panels can be coated with our translucent UC2 water repellent

and cut to size to customer specifications.

PARKA to protect the panels from water ingress and staining during

PIVETEAUBOIS added CLT to its engineered product range at the

transit and erection and from decay.

PIVETEAUBOIS uses material from local French PEFC-certified

end of 2018 with an annual production capacity of 50,000m3. The

HEXAPLI CLT range consists of panels ranging from 60mm to 360mm

forests and the fully automated 10,000m² production facility at its

thick made from sawn timber classified at C18 or C24 and 20, 30 and

Sainte-Florence headquarters is the first industrial site producing

40mm thick. The individual panels, for floors, roofs and walls, are

CLT panels in French wood of any significant scale. It has just signed

machined and delivered to order based on a customer’s 3D model and

a partnership agreement with Bouygues Bâtiment France Europe

come in widths up to 3.5m and lengths up to 16m. These are available

(France, UK and Switzerland), the first major construction company

in visible or non-visible quality, in Pine, Spruce or Douglas Fir with a

to commit to building 30% of its construction projects with French

strong focus on Pine and Douglas Fir, which offer increased mechanical

timber by 2030. PIVETEAUBOIS is now Bouygues’ preferred supplier

resistance and durability. HEXAPLI CLT panels can be supplied in UC3.2

of CLT produced with French timber.

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CASE STUDY  LOCKERBIE VISITOR BUILDING

Showcasing Structural Timber James Jones & Sons have completed a new visitor building at its flagship Lockerbie site – the largest single site sawmill complex in the UK and the most technically advanced – and used several of its own timber products.

T

he brief for the building

and the conference space above. A simple,

was part functional and part

unheated, glass link building connects the

aspirational. At a functional

new building to the old office. The first floor

level, there was a requirement

is raised to give panoramic views across the

to provide office accommodation for up to

timber yard and over the constant stream of

10 staff, a meeting room capable of holding

unprocessed logs to the mill, which is directly

up to 30 people theatre style, with the

below this space.

flexibility to hold classroom sessions and

The walls are formed with an innovative

industry meetings and a smaller meeting

double-leafed, offset structure, using James

room, kitchen facilities and a reception area

Jones & Sons proprietary timber JJI joists, to

for visitors.

minimise cold bridges. These extra thick walls,

The building obviously needed a high

at 430mm deep, allowed sufficient depth

timber content, using as much James Jones’s

to use environmentally friendly insulation

product as possible. It had to provide a view

with excellent thermal performance. It also

across the Lockerbie site allowing visitors the

facilitated a deeper articulation of window

renewable source of heating and summer

opportunity to see the sawmill in operation

reveals in an area of Scotland known for its high

cooling to the building. The various vents

with a low carbon footprint, low energy

rainfall.

and ducts for this system, the bathrooms

heating and ventilation system and high levels

Douglas fir has been extensively used in

and kitchen are carefully expressed in the

of insulation. The design ethos was to be stylish

the interior for its stability and characteristic

timber cladding on the south elevation.

and striking, but at the same time thoughtful

pink hue. The pitched roofs feature closely

Electric car charging further demonstrates the

and not grandiose. James Jones & Sons held a

centred and very narrow Douglas fir rafters,

company’s commitment to its inherently green

design competition between two architectural

160mm deep by 25mm wide that bring rhythm

credentials.

firms and the winning team was Konishi

and warmth to the spaces. This pattern is

Gaffney from Edinburgh, led by Kieran Gaffney.

echoed in the overclad reception wall and the

building,” said Rob MacKenna, General

balustrade to the staircase, top lit by the full

Manager of the Lockerbie site. “The striking

length rooflight above.

design and innovative use of solid and

The completed building’s structure acts as a demonstration project, almost entirely erected from James Jones & Sons own

Externally Scottish larch was specified

“We are really pleased with the new

engineered timber products are a great

products with an approach to minimising

with black stained, narrow, vertical cladding on

example of how timber can be used to deliver

the use of steel and maximising timber.

the lower storey of the building. Above this,

high quality office and meeting areas. The

Loadbearing glulam beams were used

the horizontal larch cladding is finished with a

main meeting room has been positioned to

throughout the building, while an unprocessed

water-based silicate treatment that preserves

achieve a stunning view across the Stevens

tree trunk provides loadbearing support to the

the timber while accelerating and evening out

Croft site, enabling visitors to view part of our

backbone of the building – a nod to the timber

the weathering.

operations from the comfort of this space. We

Taking all the timber elements into

processing cycle.

look forward to a time when we can welcome

account, the building fabric has almost 40

back groups of visitors and host them in this

pitched volumes: a single storey office wing to

CO2TE within it. The building’s environmental

fantastic new facility.”

the north and a two-storey volume to the south

agenda goes beyond the extensive use of

which houses the reception, meeting rooms

timber: an air source heat pump provides a

The building takes the form of two offset

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Use Class 2, 3 or 4?

INTERIOR and EXTERIOR environments are very different so treated wood performance levels should reflect this.

Preservative treatment provides added durability. However, it’s a mistake to assume that all treated wood is the same. BS 8417 groups applications for treated wood into Use Classes: INTERIOR

EXTERIOR

Use Class 2

Use Class 3(u)

Use Class 4

Above the ground or DPC covered

Above the ground (uncoated)

Ground or fresh water contact

Battens, framing, joists, roofs

Deck boards, cladding (inc. battens), fence rails

Fencing, playground equipment, deck posts, joists and beams

(and exterior structural support)

To get the best from your timber, make sure it’s preservative pressure treated to the correct Use Class. contact@thewpa.org.uk 01977 558274

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FEATURE  MODIFIED WOOD

Measuring Value Today’s modified woods are able to meet many of the constituents of value now being demanded by specifiers and are easily available to provide a range of construction solutions.

W

ith the launch of the Construction Innovation

used unseen as a reliable liner for architectural landscaping planters,

Hub’s Value Toolkit at the end of April, researched

sited in a development close to the entrance of London’s Hammersmith

and compiled with the help of government and

Broadway station. It was chosen as a sustainable, long-life alternative to

construction industry experts, the definition of ‘value’

plastics and metal. The MTX product can also achieve a lifetime of up to

in construction is certainly being broadened.

50 years outdoors in all weathers when not in contact with soil.

Modified woods and wood products, with their extended lifespans, and low impact end-of-life environmental profiles, deliver a non-plastic,

Homegrown timber

renewable and sustainable alternative for all manner of projects.

Many specifiers are beginning to express a desire for the timber used

Kebony® and Accoya® with their specialised modification of wood,

in their projects to be homegrown, thus contributing to social value here

plus heat-treated alternatives such as IRO Timber and ThermoWood®,

in the UK. A success story manufactured in Britain from home-grown

each support the calculation of value in their own way. Manufactured

Larch, is heat-enhanced IRO Timber exterior and interior cladding and

from sustainably grown forests, with their inherent economic, social and

decking from BSW Timber. IRO, with its 10 colours, features an enhanced-

environmental value, modified woods also offer durability benefits in

grain surface appearance, blending naturally with interiors and exterior

terms of wear and tear, and at the end of their extended lives in use are

projects. Its seven-step manufacturing process, based on the ancient

able to become part of the circular economy.

Japanese Yakisugi technique, includes two stages of kiln-drying, charring, brushing, high pressure and high-heat treatments, all of which add to

Moving on from joinery

its aesthetic and longevity. IRO Timber is UV stable and HVOC-free. IRO

Accoya® acetylated wood, first launched in 2007, is now wellestablished in the joinery production sector. Yet it is Accoya’s

cladding can be side-fixed, rather than face-fixed, giving a smooth finish.

The water repellent surface also offers easy cleaning.

performance in water, with its minimal swelling, shrinkage and warping, that has interested the Environment Agency. International Timber

Low lifecycle costs

teamed up with Accoya’s parent company Accsys and sustainability

Delivering value in construction is also about looking at maintenance

consultants 540 World to create an Accoya fender for a trial on the banks

aspects of products in use. Produced from sustainably grown and

of the River Thames in London. Fenders, part of the flood management

certified Pine, Kebony wood utilises a by-product of the sugar cane

assets in the Thames Estuary, also provide biodiversity niches in tidal

industry, furfuryl alcohol, to impregnate the softwood cell walls, locking

waters: Accoya is non-toxic. Accoya was also chosen because of its Gold

in natural polymers to form a stable, durable structure. The wood is

level Cradle to Cradle™ certification: the certification identifies products

then heated and cured, permanently thickening the cell walls by around

that consider the effects on the environment of their manufacture, and

50%, producing material with a 30-year warranty if used above ground.

which also take account of social value.

From a wear and tear perspective, the ‘Kebonization’ process particularly increases the hardness of the timber to levels associated with durable

Hidden assets

hardwoods. Its low maintenance needs, high durability and recyclability

Another modified product which demonstrates the lifespan of

combine to produce low whole-life costs. Available in Britain exclusively

modified woods is MEDITE® TRICOYA® EXTREME, often abbreviated to

through Brooks Brothers Timber, Kebony also has a low carbon footprint

‘MTX’, an exterior form of MDF. For example, colourful planters created

compared to tropical hardwoods.

from MTX and donated to Marlborough Sports Garden near London Bridge will see an entire generation of children grow up before they need

Modified woods are a natural addition to the specifier’s portfolio and can contribute to achieving a broad-based notion of value in construction.

to be replaced. MTX is acetylated MDF, formulated for use outdoors. It More at  www.thewpa.org.uk/wood-modification

offers up to a 25-year lifespan in contact with soil. MTX has also been

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Great British Wood Support British woodlands by using British wood.

We produce cladding, beams, flooring and sawn hardwood, all from locally grown timber.

01793 853 281 | vastern.co.uk |

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@VasternTimberUK

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  THE BIG INTERVIEW

Changing the Timber Mindset Vastern Timber is the largest hardwood saw-milling company in the UK, with the vast majority of its wood bought and sold within one hundred miles of its sawmills.

We spoke to managing director, Tom Barnes about homegrown wood, thermal modification and supply and demand.

Q:

How has the last 12 months been for the business?

and sycamore. In many cases the homegrown versions are cheaper

It’s been a rollercoaster but with more ups than

than imported timber. We do not have enough wood to satisfy the

downs. Apart from the initial lockdown in March 2020,

huge demand in this country but recent supply shortages and huge

demand for our timber has been strong and the last nine

price increases of Canadian cedar and Siberian larch demonstrate that

months have been our busiest ever. As well as general high demand,

our reliance on importing leaves our plans to build with more wood in

shortages of imported timber and an increasing focus on supply chains

jeopardy. I believe that we must aim to be more self-sufficient which

have pushed specifiers and customers towards homegrown timber and

means planting more and using more.

we have definitely benefited from that.

Q: The timber market appears to be very busy right now and prices are rising. What is driving this and is it affecting the homegrown market?

The construction sector drives the timber market, and I am surprised by how busy that has been. I think most of us were expecting a recession on the back of the Covid pandemic but it seems the opposite has occurred. High demand in this country has been replicated in the USA, Australia and across Asia, which has created a very competitive environment. At the same time, supply has been constricted by lockdowns and for various reasons large supply countries have reduced felling. The consequence is that prices for some timber products have doubled and availability has halved over the last year. The knock-on effect is that UK softwood log prices have increased by 40% and competition for them is fierce. The hardwood log market is less affected because there are fewer companies able to process them but prices are rising. It’s a good time to own woodland!

Q: What are the reasons for using homegrown timber cladding as opposed to imported species – e.g. Canadian western red cedar?

We grow plenty of species in this country that are suited to exterior timber cladding. Homegrown western red cedar, larch, oak and sweet chestnut are all suitable due to their natural durability and with the help of thermal modification we can now also use native ash, poplar

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FEATURE  THE BIG INTERVIEW

Q: What are the benefits of modified timber above ‘natural’ or

Q: The Brimstone range is the only UK grown thermally

un-modified material?

modified timber – what made you develop this product

There are benefits both in terms of functionality and long-term

originally?

availability. Functionally modified woods are altered to enhance

Brimstone grew out of a collaboration between partners including

a combination of characteristics including durability, stability and

Grown in Britain, BRE and industry who joined forces to consider

consistency. Modern modification processes tend to produce material

solutions to the poor state of our native broadleaf woodlands. Out of this

that is as good as, or better than, the most durable and the most stable

came the idea that by thermally modifying fast growing white hardwoods

natural timbers, without the problems associated with extractives such

we could increase demand for the timber, thereby increasing its value

as tannin or cedar oils. Considering the long term benefits, modification

and as a result boost rates of woodland management. As we at Vastern

allows us to create high performing timber products without relying on

Timber already had all of the capabilities to process the raw timber,

species that take many hundreds of years to grow such as old growth

it seemed like a logical step to explore the potential for producing

western red cedar, oak or iroko. Because these products are created

thermally modified wood from homegrown hardwoods.

from pines and quick growing hardwoods that take between 25 and 50 years to grow, we can increase the amount of useful long term timber

Q: As is widely reported, a healthy UK homegrown timber

available in the future, the amount of carbon locked up in the built

supply needs more trees to be successful – not just for a healthy

environment and the percentage from local sources.

construction industry but for hitting zero carbon targets – can the UK forests supply enough raw material to sawmills to

Q: What applications are suitable for modified timber – can it

satisfy the market?

be used structurally?

The simple answer is no. But the data suggests that global forests

Durability and stability are the two key benefits of modification

cannot supply our future needs either. We face the perfect storm of

and as such the most common uses for the material are exterior

declining domestic supplies caused by a lack of planting and increasing

cladding and semi-structural uses such as decking and external joinery.

global competition for timber as countries urbanise and attempt

Modification does not tend to improve the structural qualities of timber

to reduce embodied carbon in buildings. Add to this mix the loss of

and in some cases, such as with thermal modification, the bending

forest due to deforestation, disease and climate change and it is hard

strength of the wood is reduced. Unless the structure is external and

to see how we will be able to source enough timber to achieve our

requires durability, there is no need for modified wood.

ambitions. In April I spoke to the Parliamentary Group on Forestry and Tree Planting, urging them to develop a National Timber Strategy to reconcile our increasing demand for timber and timber-based products with reducing national and international supply. Ultimately, we cannot control international supply but we can take bold steps to boost domestic forestry for the future.

More at  www.vastern.co.uk

The installation of Brimstone timber at the Sylva Wood Centre helped transform an old grain store into an exciting new workspace showcasing the best of British timber.

Timber Construction Magazine

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 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  WOOD PROTECTION

Optimum Performance: why treated wood works As trade associations unite in a campaign to grow demand for preservative treated wood, Gordon Ewbank, CEO at the Wood Protection Association, highlights why using the right product in the right place is so important.

T

he Timber Trade Federation (TTF) is making third-party

clearly identified by customers and making sure an accurate product

quality assurance mandatory for members producing

description is carried all the way through the supply chain – from the

treated wood products by July next year. In the

treatment plant through to merchants, to builders to architects, and

meantime, in partnership with the Wood Protection

others. Using the right product in the right place is a responsibility

Association (WPA), an educational campaign to raise supply chain

which runs right throughout the supply chain and something that we

knowledge about how to specify and use treated wood correctly

must get right. It is only by working together that we can achieve this.”

has just been launched and the campaign’s first advertisements are The Code for Construction Product Information

appearing now in key trade magazines.

The Confederation of Forest Industries (Confor) and the Timber

This campaign also connects into the development of the Code

Decking & Cladding Association (TDCA) have joined forces with the TTF

for Construction Product Information (CCPI). The CCPI arises from the

and WPA to drive the campaign’s educational messages into the supply

issues across construction first crystallized the Hackitt Review, which

chain to help improve buyer understanding and change perceptions

was followed by two further reports from the Competency Steering

about the performance of preservative wood protection.

Group for Building a Safer Future, including ‘Setting the Bar’. The Construction Products Association (CPA) is launching an industry-

The TTF Action Plan

wide consultation into the new CCPI, to gather the views before it is

The TTF treated wood action plan has been developed in close

formally launched later this year. The Hackitt report confirmed radical

collaboration with WPA and is designed to build confidence in the

change was needed for construction products, particularly in the areas

choice of preservative treated wood for ground contact applications, so

of testing and marketing, and the need for a sector-wide approach to

creating the conditions required to grow demand for added value wood

providing clear, accurate and unambiguous product information.

products. The key elements of the 3-point plan are:

While the Grenfell tragedy may not have involved timber products, it has impacted the commercial landscape for all building materials and

•

•

Preservative treated wood must be accurately and unambiguously

claims for performance right through the supply chain. This links very

specified/purchased, for use or resale, and is clearly identified at all

directly into the first element of the TTF Action Plan for treated wood,

points of the chain as fit for the intended purpose

namely ‘treated wood must be accurately and unambiguously specified

Customers purchasing treated products from TTF members must be

and be clearly identified at all points of the chain’. This message is proving

provided with adequate information and, where appropriate, training

very timely and gives an added focus and impetus to this initiative.

to be able to use and install those products safely and effectively •

Preservative treated wood must be produced by or purchased,

Share in the WPA’s passion for treated wood WPA is delighted that major timber trade associations are collaborating

directly or indirectly, from a treatment provider whose operation has been assessed and approved under an independent and

closely to help the UK market for treated wood grow. We are happy

reputable accreditation scheme (by July 2022).

to talk with any other organisation who shares our passion for wood protection technology and the industry’s mission to realise the

“Using the right product in the right place – and actively making sure the wrong product does not go into a project – is a responsibility

full potential of wood as a sustainable, low environmental impact construction and landscaping material.

which runs right throughout the supply chain,” says David Hopkins, More at  www.thewpa.org.uk/make-sure-it-s-4

TTF CEO. “This means labelling the goods properly so they can be

Timber Construction Magazine

Summer 2021

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 @Timber_Media

ADVERTORIAL  LONZA WOOD PROTECTION

Meeting the evolving needs of timber product specification With timber increasingly being recognised as our ‘go to’ construction material of the future, it’s crucial that it is specified correctly. Ensuring that the timber has been sourced from sustainably managed forests is paramount, as is checking that it is treated correctly to the specified Use Class.

I

ndependent bodies, including the Committee on Climate Change, have reported that favouring timber over high

carbon materials such as concrete and steel is one of the most effective ways to reduce carbon emissions. This is where timber treatment really comes to the forefront; providing long term protection against fungal decay and insect attack to one of the most sustainable building materials.

A new water-based low pressure preservative treatment To help meet the evolving needs of construction timber product specification, Lonza Wood Protection has recently launched VACSOL Aqua 6118 which can be used to treat timbers in Use Class 1, 2 and 3 (coated). More commonly known as VACSOL 6118, this new water-based low-pressure preservative treatment is both metal and VOC-free.

VACSOL 6118 is a Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) authorised product. At Lonza we commit to obtaining full BPR authorisation for products that we are planning to launch to market. This process is a substantial investment and involves passing stringent risk assessments, as well as generating extensive data and studies to prove that the wood preservative is effective against wood destroying fungi and/or insects.

The BPR requires data on the possible exposure and toxicity to humans such as reproduction toxicity, carcinogenicity, or endocrine disruption etc., as well as data on environmental impacts such as accumulation in

against fungal and insect attack around general building timbers and

soil or ecological toxicity.

joinery components. For Use Classes 1 and 2 it can deliver the desired service life of 60 years.

A focus on environmental impact

As VACSOL 6118 leaves the timbers virtually unchanged in their

Investment in BPR authorisation allows Lonza Wood Protection to

appearance, Lonza Wood Protection offer a range of colour options

confidently assure the market that timbers treated with VACSOL 6118

to help treatment companies confirm to their end customers that the

are non-hazardous to human and animal health, and to the environment.

timbers have been preservative treated. These TREATMENT MARKERS

And, with an increased focus on the circular economy, timber treated

are a range of short-term (dye based) and medium-term (pigment

with VACSOL 6118 can be recycled or reused at end of life.

based) colour options that provide an initial colour strike purely to

In addition, to help timber treaters reduce their carbon footprint

indicate a preservative treatment has been added.

VACSOL 6118 has been designed as an easy-to-use concentrate that is diluted on-site to meet individual business requirements.

Tried, Tested and Trusted Wood Protection

VACSOL Aqua 6118 is a BPR authorised product. Use wood preservatives safely.

With VAC-VAC booster technology for enhanced performance, More at  www.trustvacsol.com

VACSOL 6118 provides an effective ‘envelope’ of long-term protection

Timber Construction Magazine

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Always read the label and product information before use.

 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  PANEL PRODUCTS

Boards of Protection Whilst engineered wood-based panel products are an integral part of many timber frame systems, they also have many flexible functions inside the construction world including site security.

Not all sites lend themselves to hoardings. In some cases, it is important to secure access to individual buildings by boarding up doors and windows. This is particularly necessary for renovation and conversion projects involving old buildings where the structures may be unsound and present a potential danger to trespassers. In addition, thieves will be lured by the prospect of valuable architectural salvage; fireplaces, panelling, doors and even staircase are vulnerable. Such items may require ‘boxing in’ to provide protection from both thieves and damage due to the building work itself. SterlingOSB Zero is a robust solution in all these situations.

The first OSB product to be made in the UK with zero added formaldehyde, SterlingOSB Zero is a ‘greener’ board that meets all standards with ease. Its environmental credentials are enhanced further as it is manufactured in the UK from responsibly sourced timber, so its carbon footprint is low.

C

More at  www.norbord.co.uk

onstruction sites and vacant buildings are tempting places for thieves, trespassers, vandals, arsonists and children.

A perimeter barrier, such as a site hoarding, is seen as the first and most important line of defence in securing a site.

 Panel Imports Rising

The windows, doors and other openings of individual, unoccupied properties may be boarded up. Widely recognised as the ideal panel material to fulfil

The recovery in import volume seen in the second half of 2020

these needs, OSB is easy to use, consistent and great value.

continued in January 2021 with timber and panel imports 12%

SterlingOSB Zero is a highly versatile board for structural use in

higher than in January 2020. The volume of solid timber and

load-bearing dry or humid conditions. Naturally strong and hard-wearing,

panel products imported in January 2021 totalled 895,000m3, a

it is tougher than most softwood plywood and has no knots, voids or

100,000m3 rise from January 2020’s total imports of 795,000m3.

delaminating problems.

When comparing January 2021 with January 2020 the statistics

Securing construction sites is challenging. The theft of tools, building

revealed that among the individual product categories:

materials and expensive plant such as diggers and generators is just one of the problems. Security is linked inextricably with health and safety,

•

Softwood import volumes rose by 22% (530,000m3).

there are also serious liability issues. Those owning or operating a site

•

Hardwood import volumes fell by 5.5% (38,000m3).

are responsible for managing access and ensuring the safety of non-

•

Softwood plywood import volumes rose by 24% (82,000m3).

employees, trespassers and particularly children.

•

Particleboard import volumes fell by 42% (41,000m3)

•

OSB import volumes rose 135% (58,000m3).

•

MDF import volumes fell by 22.5% (60,000m3)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) states: “While the numbers of children being killed or injured on construction sites has reduced, there is no room for complacency. Each year, two or three children die after gaining access to building sites, and many more are injured.”

The increase in import volumes comes amidst a resurgent

Security breaches have implications in terms of downtime, loss of

housing market, with housing starts up by 26% in England in

revenue, increased insurance premiums and equipment replacement costs;

Q4 2020 as compared to Q4 2019. David Hopkins, CEO of the

they also do little for the PR effort when problems on a site become public.

Timber Trade Federation, said: “Our latest statistics reflect the

According to the HSE, site boundaries must be defined physically, where

determination of our members to match supply to demand, with

necessary, by suitable fencing. The inherent strength of SterlingOSB Zero

a growth in overall wood product imports amidst a competitive

makes it the natural choice for hoardings. Requiring minimal finishing, the

international market which is keeping supply tight the world

product is available in a number of sheet sizes and thicknesses. The boards

over, and a surge in construction in the UK. This growth is being

are square-edged so butt together easily and cleanly; nails can be driven

supported by a buoyant housing market, a government eager to

as close as 8mm from the panel edge without causing splitting. Hoardings

invest, and consumers choosing to spend money saved during

created using SterlingOSB Zero may be finished with most popular surface

the pandemic on home improvements, with some £160 billion

treatments, allowing logos and marketing messages to be displayed,

saved during the last year.”

creating a smart site perimeter for the duration of work.

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 @Timber_Media

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FEATURE  TIMBER & HOUSING

AIMCH Publish Progressive Results

AIMCH, the innovation consortium set up to transform the housebuilding sector, has published its second-year progress report showing encouraging results and key learnings points for a more efficient future.

A

Advanced Industrialised Methods for the Construction

new AIMCH Chair added: “Mainstreaming all categories of MMC is

of Homes (AIMCH) is a three-year research and

more important than ever. In a post-Covid world the sector needs to

development project aiming to help tackle the UK

transform productivity, improve quality as well as improving the welfare

housing crisis by building new homes faster, to higher

of its workforce. We also need to find more sustainable ways of

quality and more cost effectively than masonry methods using

building in order to achieve a net zero-carbon built environment.

panelised modern methods of construction (MMC) systems.

The latest report to be published by highlights several key learnings

“The AIMCH project has already made great progress across a number of fronts which will better enable greater MMC adoption across all parts

for the industry across several important and innovative areas. One of

of industry including SME’s. The work done on design standardisation,

the highlights being able to achieve a weathertight, insulated and secure

panelised and sub-assembly system applications, productivity and carbon

superstructure in just one day. All advanced panelised MMC systems and

measurement and manufacturing process optimisation are all rich sources

lean construction solutions trialled so far have been successful and early

of knowledge for others to learn from and use.”

A collaboration between Stewart Milne Group, Barratt

analysis is recognising the benefits of these advanced panelised MMC

Developments, L&Q, Forster Group, the Manufacturing Technology

systems with the hard data to back it up.

Other important outputs of the project in the last year include the

Centre (MTC) and Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC),

completion of several studies and the publication of guides for industry: •

Design standardisation and the development of product families

•

Guide to creating a BIM housing manual

•

Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA)

•

Designing a future factory.

“Despite the challenges of Covid-19,” said Stewart Dalgarno,

AIMCH Project Director and Stewart Milne Group Director of Product Development. “The project team has worked hard to build momentum and has delivered some important outputs which confirm panelised modern methods of construction (MMC) as a very real and viable alternative to masonry, over the final year, we hope to take this to a new level.”

Mark Farmer, founding director & CEO Cast Real Estate &

Mark Farmer, founding director & CEO Cast Real Estate & Construction Consultancy, and Government champion on MMC and new AIMCH Chair

Construction Consultancy, and Government champion on MMC and

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 @Timber_Media



FEATURE  TIMBER & HOUSING

the project compares conventional and panelised MMC construction

and Whole Life Costing in the use of MMC systems across four housing

methods on actual building sites, and the impact scaling up panelised

types to current and near zero carbon standards. A strategy for a

MMC will have on the housebuilding industry.

proof of concept, near zero carbon home trial was also developed with

The three-year AIMCH project, which has been live since early 2019,

Barratt Developments.

has been trialling new digital design tools, manufacturing advancements,

The project also recognises the importance of SMEs and through

and improved near-to-market offsite panelised MMC systems, using lean

Forster Group, roofing specialist, has helped accelerate their roofing

site processes on live housing projects over the past two years.

technology, through collaborative learning and proof of concept trials

The project recognises the challenges of MMC manufacturing

with MTC and the AIMCH developers. Dissemination is important and

and through engagement with MTC, lead manufacturing partner,

provided by CSIC including presenting at several key industry events, a

has conducted advanced manufacturing and digital business systems

dedicated industry stakeholder group, project website and social media.

studies. These include down selection process for an integrated ERP

The goal of the project is to support the sector by delivering

system for MMC manufacturing and installation, along with detailed

120,000 homes for the same or less cost than traditional methods

proof of concept studies into specific manufacturing areas, where using

and built 30% quicker. The project has potential to impact on 35,000

robotics and advanced automation can improve MMC manufacturing

homes being delivered by AIMCH partners across the UK each year.

output, productivity, quality and lower costs, including the design of

In the project’s final year, a number of outputs and learnings for the

future factories using mathematical models, dynamic simulation and 3D

sector will be completed and shared on the AIMCH website as well as at

technology to improve investment decisions.

industry events, with final findings published in March 2022.

With decarbonisation of the built environment a priority, the More at  www.aimch.co.uk

project embarked on a study to measure and profile Embodied Carbon

 CSIC appoints Andy Outram as new chair Construction Scotland Innovation Centre

John Forster, Andy will oversee a new

(CSIC) has announced the appointment of

era at CSIC as the innovation centre looks

Andy Outram as its new chairperson. Andy

to drive the construction sector’s role in

has extensive experience across the UK’s

delivering a green recovery from Covid-19,

construction sector, having worked in the

supported by digital transformation, cultural

industry for 35 years. He is currently lead

change, sustainable building, and advanced

director for real estate in Scotland at Turner

manufacturing techniques.

& Townsend, the global professional services company, and has been a divisional director

it was launched in 2014,” said Andy

on the firm’s project management board since

Outram. “Having worked on some of the

2015.

early strategies, it has been great to see it become an ever more integral part of

new technology and innovation that can

project management director on a range of

Scotland’s construction sector. Our industry

enhance performance and productivity,

high-profile strategic projects in Scotland

has been placed front and centre of the

but we also need the capacity and diversity

including the 2014 Commonwealth Games

Covid-19 recovery. As we face this challenge,

of talent to help drive this forward. I am

Athlete’s Village, the SSE Hydro Arena, and

and even bigger threats such as the climate

honoured to be taking on the role of chair

The Event Centre Aberdeen (TECA). Taking

emergency, we need to accelerate our

and privileged to be helping CSIC in the

over the chair role from Forster Group’s

transformation. Crucial to this is embracing

charge for change.”

During his career, Andy has acted as a

“I have actively supported CSIC since

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 @Timber_Media

FEATURE  UK MARKET FOCUS

Timber Demand & Supply To help shed greater light on the state of the timber market, the TTF recently released a publication putting the current situation into context. Here are a few stand out points on where the UK market sits.

A

s the body representing more than four-fifths of the wood supplied and traded in the UK, the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) released a ‘market statement’ on the timber supply situation, to “directly address

reports appearing in the media via other commentators and refresh the understanding of wood-users throughout the supply chain on current market dynamics.”

The statement makes clear where the market has changed in the last two years in particular. “Prior to 2020, the two abortive attempts at Brexit

traditionally supplying

had seen both suppliers and wood users respond to uncertainty by stock-

the UK have instituted log export bans, which

piling large volumes of timber and wood products in case of disruption.

puts additional pressure on supplies. The Republic of Ireland is having

This created artificially-high stock availability. As each attempt at Brexit

its own internal difficulties over log harvesting, impacting the UK

failed, it created artificially-low pricing, reflecting the extreme over-supply

construction supply chain. Higher log prices are already being paid by

in the marketplace, which then passed through the supply chain.

sawmills at home and abroad – higher costs are then passed through

“Timber is still being imported and produced in the UK, however due

national and international supply chains.

to pandemic-driven factors and high domestic and international demand,

“Supply will tighten as 2021 progresses: sawmills in Europe normally

the formerly-abundant stock levels enjoyed by buyers in the UK have not

enter a period of shut-down for repair, maintenance and holidays in June/

been able to be re-built since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.

July. Demand continues to be high, particularly for structural and other

“Across the globe, lockdowns and the consequent move to home-

softwood materials, panel products and hardwoods, across the world. This

based working have altered market dynamics: unprecedented international

will exacerbate the supply situation. The TTF’s UK Softwood Conference in

demand continues for house-building, DIY projects, garden improvements,

March revealed that softwood demand is forecast to increase worldwide

home extensions, home offices and other refurbishments. Exceptionally

at least until 2025 and will likely continue upwards for some years to come.

high global demand for timber, as its carbon storage potential in

The situation for buyers, both on upward price trajectories and on tight

construction is grasped and embraced across construction, combined with

supplies, is thus unlikely to change at any time in the near future.”

supply pipeline restrictions, are motivating pricing upwards: demand is outstripping current production capacity.”

TTF chief executive David Hopkins said: “We hope by sharing this information it may help our members in their conversations and

As the UK Government has encouraged the construction sector

business activity by placing our current situation into a wider context.

to ‘build back better’, a fresh impetus has been injected into the

In our view the market position should be phrased as a DEMAND rather

housebuilding sector with projects now moving swiftly to catch up,

than as a supply situation. Timber is still being imported and produced

further pressuring supplies.

at high volumes.

“Other countries internationally are prepared to pay higher prices than

“However, the surge in demand for construction materials this year

traditionally agreed by UK timber purchasers, heightening the perception

means customers may not be able to purchase timber as readily off the

of value. UK-grown timber supplies are insufficient to replace the level

shelves as they have been used to. We advise users of timber to work

of imported timber demanded by UK construction and refurbishment.

closely with suppliers on their purchasing strategies, and to take a forward-

Timber suppliers are doing their best to service customers, but the level

looking perspective on securing supplies.

of demand is currently higher than can be swiftly gratified by existing

“This approach will remain important, as recent reports have shown

production facilities and available input supplies across the UK and Europe.

we can expect demand to continue to be high, particularly for structural

This applies to both timber and panel products.

and other softwood materials. We also know that traditionally sawmills in

“Brexit-related factors are also affecting the ability of importers to import. Around 80% of the softwood used in Britain’s building,

Europe normally enter a period of shut-down for repair, maintenance and holidays in June and July, and this will keep supply tight.”

fit-out and refurbishment sectors comes in from countries in the European Union and further afield on the Continent. This rises to

The full TTF Market Statement is freely available to download at

around 90% in newbuild housing. Some timber-producing countries

 www.ttf.co.uk

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A. Proctor Group expands firerated systems offering

Lathams broadens offer with Irish addition Timber and materials supplier James Latham Ltd has expanded its Irish service offer following the opening of a bulk timber distribution business just outside of Dublin.

A new tape for use with fire-rated internal vapour control layers is now available from the A. Proctor Group.

The company has taken on the stocks and sales team of hardwoods supplier Tradewoods, and will now operate under the Lathams Direct Timber brand (LDT), trading as LDT Ireland, based out of the existing Warehouse and premises in Naul.

Procheck® FR Tape, a B-s2,d0 aluminium-faced, air and vapour tight product, is designed to be used with Procheck A2 and Procheck FR200 vapour control layers (VCLs) which are part of the fire-rated system solutions available from the A. Proctor Group. The tape is used to seal the horizontal and vertical overlaps of these VCLs, as well as over the fixings, around penetrations and junctions, to ensure the internal air and vapour barrier is one continuous, seamless layer.

LDT is one of the UK’s largest hardwood timber importers. It was set up by Lathams to provide customers with easier access to hardwoods, direct from the port.

Andy Duffin, Timber Director at Lathams, said: “When the opportunity arose to purchase the Tradewoods stocks and set up a new outlet in Naul it made sense as it allows us to more easily serve the Irish market. It also expands our supply chain relationships and adds new products to our portfolio.

When tested to EN 13501-1 as part of a system together with Procheck A2, Procheck FR Tape helped the build-up maintain the membranes’ original fire-ratings of A2-s1,d0. This rating exceed the minimum requirement of B-s3,d0 for construction membranes used in external walls.

“Our LDT business makes it much more straightforward for customers to purchase hardwoods and softwoods. Because we offer landed stock, they have faster access to materials and don’t have to worry about managing shipping and customs requirements and costs.”

Responding to this belt-and-braces approach, the A. Proctor Group’s Specification Manager, James Brackenreed-Johnston, commented that having an option that “goes above and beyond the minimum of what current regulations require” is a wise strategy for specifiers to consider. This is particularly relevant today, considering the upcoming changes the new Code for Construction Product Information guidance will have on material specifications in the future.

The stock range includes temperate and tropical species, including African hardwoods, such as Iroko and Sapele, North American varieties including Cherry, Maple and Red Oak and Cedar from Canada. Over time, further products will be added to the LDT Ireland range to bring the offer in line with the existing LDT business. These will include Accoya and the WoodEx branded engineered timber, as well as a range of European hardwoods.

Procheck FR Tape is the latest addition to A. Proctor Group’s extensive range of fire-rated system solutions. Along with the previously mentioned internal VCL systems, their offering also includes fire-rated external breather membranes and air barrier systems, as well as the thinnest A2 insulation for interior applications available on the market.

Whilst the market is very volatile currently, Lathams will endeavour to secure the volumes required to service this valuable market.

To find out more visit www.directtimber.co.uk For more information about James Latham please visit www.lathamtimber.co.uk.

For more information contact www.proctorgroup.com

Fireshield® chosen for science centre of Kensington & Chelsea school

Timber frame construction the West Fraser way

Timber frame construction brings many benefits to the housebuilding industry, including quicker build times, quieter assembly, fewer deliveries to site, cost savings and a reduction in defects. Underpinning these advantages, West Fraser’s engineered wood-based panel products are an integral part of many timber frame systems. They are regularly seen as the number one choice for all aspects of home building, be it the structure, flooring or interior. West Fraser’s high quality boards are available in a wide range of grades and, with minimal finishing required, speed up construction. The products are incredibly versatile, offer value for money and have good environmental credentials with a low carbon footprint as all are made in the UK. In fact, all West Fraser panel products are net carbon negative and so can help the builder achieve sustainability targets.

Fireshield® vapour permeable membrane, which is designed specifically to improve the fire protection behind cladding has been chosen for a new Science Centre at Bevington Primary school in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, London.

The project includes a brand new Science Studio, plus before and after school club buildings.

SIP Build UK was appointed as frame subcontractor for the project and chose the Fireshield membrane as part of the SIPS panelling system. Chris Duckworth from SIP Build UK explains: “We chose Fireshield as it provided the project with a number of really important benefits. Fireshield is a high-performance breather membrane which enables us to achieve the requirements in terms of fire protection without compromising on vapour control.

Ideal for structural applications and offering great value, West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero is stronger and tougher than ply, with no knots, voids or de-lamination. It is the first OSB product to be made in the UK with zero added formaldehyde, so it is a ‘greener’ board that meets all standards with ease. The range comprises panels specifically designed to fulfil the full range of timber frame applications, including structural use in dry or humid load-bearing conditions. When it comes to dry lining applications, SterlingOSB Zero StrongFix is precision engineered with a custom groove for metal C-studs at 600mm centres. The consistent density of OSB means fixtures and fittings of up to 400kg can be attached anywhere on the panel and achieve secure anchorage.

Fireshield was also ideal because it is easy to use and allowed us to achieve the requirements in one process, using just the membrane, rather than the typical approach of two, cement board and a membrane.”

Fireshield is the culmination of leading research to produce a vapour permeable membrane with a intumescent coated surface, which has a unique composition that actively reacts to help protect the materials underneath. The intumescent coating helps protect the substrate by reducing the risk of fire taking hold and significantly reduces the formation of droplets and smoke.

For flat roof decking and flooring applications, SterlingOSB Zero Tongue & Groove is the go-to solution. Advanced, high-strength flooring is provided by the CaberFloor system, the most specified moisture-resistant P5 flooring. Versatile, stable, durable and designed to be easy to lay, the CaberFloor range includes CaberShield+ and CaberDek. CaberShield+ offers a permanent waterproof coating on both sides while CaberDek has a strong, waterproof and slip-resistant peelable film that, when removed, leaves a clean, finished floor. They are enhanced by CaberFix, a range of specially developed powerful sealing and fixing systems.

The BBA Certificate awarded to Fireshield confirms that it has enhanced performance in relation to reaction to fire classification, will reduce the risk of interstitial condensation, and will have a life equal to that of the building in which it is installed.

Fireshield complies with BS5250, BS4016 and NHBC requirements for vapour permeable walling underlays. It is installed and fixed to the substrate in the same manner as standard breather membranes using mechanical fixings. Applications include both commercial and residential buildings including apartments and student accommodation, as well as Rainscreen cladding and applications over 18m high (11m in Scotland).

When it comes to quality finishing and architectural details, CaberWood MDF is the ideal solution.

This versatile range is designed as an economical alternative to hardwood but without the inherent defects of knots or grains. The boards are engineered with consistent density for multiple uses, including mouldings. As with other West Fraser ranges, there are products for all applications.

For more information contact www.proctorgroup.com

Timber Construction Magazine

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit uk.westfraser.com

Summer 2021

32

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

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