In the past we have written several pieces about why wood is a good building material. In this piece we would like to bring them all together to provide a more comprehensive idea of why you should use it. Our passion for helping clients to choose the right materials makes us the architects London clients love working with.
Low carbon
Nowadays people worry about how much carbon the building materials they use release. Wood is far and away the best option because it takes carbon out of the atmosphere when trees grow. It locks it away rather than releasing it, making wood a very green option.
Sustainable
While people think many materials are sustainable because they can be reused or recycled, wood is truly renewable. We can replace any trees cut for timber. As a result the supply can constantly refresh.
Climate regulation
Wood is a fantastic material when it comes to regulating climate because it is a breathable material. It can create a warm ambiance and also has the ability to absorb and release moisture.
Light
Timber is lightweight so it is easier to work with and transport. It also puts a smaller load on foundations, meaning they can be shallower and cut down on the amount of resources that need to be used.
Short construction time
One way to save money on projects and create more affordable housing is to cut the build time. This can reduce how much developers spend on labour. Timber is great for this because of prefabrication. Instead of starting from scratch buildings can be delivered to site in sections ready to fit together. This is efficient and the construction time can fall by 60-70%.
CLT
There have been lots of advances in timber production. One of the most notable is cross laminate timber (CLT). The material has layers of wood and glue, instead of a single solid piece. This makes it strong and durable as well as ensuring it has a small impact on the environment. It is becoming very popular as a result of the array of benefits it offers to users.
Coffey Architects loves using timber in projects. We can help clients to look for the right materials, ensuring they get everything they are looking for. If you want to work with the best architects London has, contact our team. One discussion is all it will take for us to help build on your ideas.