Timber has been a popular building material for thousands of years. So, what are the qualities of timber that make it such a popular choice?
Versatility
Timber can be used for a multitude of applications and not just for construction. You’ll find timber in furniture, sporting equipment, playgrounds and in the marine industry. You can choose timber for many different projects.
Sustainable
Renewable and sustainable, timber is most likely the best eco-friendly material you could choose for a project. Trees grow naturally meaning there are no additional manufacturing processes required to produce timber. Responsible harvesting means there will always be a steady supply. For details on a Timber Frame Company, visit Merlin Timber Frame, a responsible Timber Frame Company.
Longevity
A common misconception about timber is that it won’t last as long as brick. Depending on the external conditions, wood often performs better when it comes to holding firm in extreme weather, for example. Timber can last for hundreds of years as long as it is treated to withstand the climate.
Maturity
Did you know that trees take decades to fully mature? Some species take longer than others. Some species can take up to thirty years to mature, such as oak trees, whilst apple trees can take up to ten years.
Planting
Some people might feel guilty about using timber but rest assured that in the European timber industry, more trees are planted than are harvested. This has created a growing sustainable timber supply for the future.
12%
In the UK, 12% of land is dedicated to woodland. This is low compared to other countries, such as Finland, where woodland accounts for 72% of land.