Timber design and commercial viability

For a long time, the industry has delved into the benefits that building with timber offers the construction industry, particularly from a sustainability perspective. However, some of the most beneficial aspects of the material lie within its commercial viability. In order to get the best out of timber as a construction material in a housebuilding sense, we must equip architects with the knowledge required to make informed design decisions. Here, Paul Newman, Technical Director from the STA explains more.  

By now, the construction industry is more than aware of the crucial need to prioritise sustainability in projects. As such, timber has emerged as a key material for achieving the UK’s ambitious net zero targets, particularly while also needing to achieve its commitments to build over 300,000 homes per year. However, the advantages of timber go far beyond just its environmental benefits.  

Timber-framed homes can be constructed in as little as 15 weeks, significantly faster than the 26-30 weeks typically required for masonry or concrete methods. This accelerated timeline results in substantial cost savings, reduced project risks, and increased predictability—key advantages in an industry where efficiency is paramount. Additionally, timber-framed structures become weather-tight 6 to 10 weeks sooner than masonry homes, enabling internal work to commence and finish much earlier. 

In addition to the time-based benefits of timber frame, it also generates far less waste meaning minimal landfill contributions and fewer weather delays. The just in time approach to offsite manufacturing enhances project management, enabling shorter build times and lower costs. These operational efficiencies make timber a commercially attractive option, especially in affordable housing and high-volume projects. 

The advantages of timber construction are clear, from viability in a commercial sense to the sustainability benefits that are so crucial to the industry. But how do we achieve this transition successfully? The key to this success hinges on competency, skills and informed decision making on designs and planning.  

The UK Government's Timber in Construction (TiC) Policy Roadmap highlighted the importance of skills and competency in priority theme three: increasing skills, capacity and competency across the supply chain. To achieve widespread adoption of timber, architects and designers must go beyond simply substituting materials and instead integrate timber-specific design principles. 

Architects must ensure that they collaborate early with engineers, clients, and contractors to align on best practices while also possessing a good understanding of the different timber frame systems available, from timber-frame to SIPs. Of course, compliance with fire, durability and acoustic performance regulations is crucial, as is the integration and adoption of offsite manufacturing to leverage the full potential of timber as a construction material.  

A well-trained workforce is crucial for high-quality timber construction, and the TiC Policy Roadmap highlights the industry's need to up-skill professionals, attract new talent, and ensure adequate training for existing workers. However, the sector faces several challenges, including a lack of formal education on timber construction in architectural programs, a need for expanded Continuing Professional Development (CPD) initiatives focusing on timber engineering and whole-life carbon considerations, and a shortage of skilled tradespeople trained in proper timber system installation. To address these gaps, industry bodies like the STA play a vital role in providing resources, training, and accreditation schemes. 

The benefits of timber in construction extend far beyond sustainability, offering significant commercial advantages such as faster build times, cost savings, and improved project efficiency. However, to fully harness its potential, architects and designers must develop the necessary skills and knowledge to integrate timber-specific design principles effectively. The UK Government’s Timber in Construction Policy Roadmap underscores the importance of upskilling the workforce, expanding formal education, and enhancing training initiatives to drive wider adoption. By prioritising competency, collaboration, and offsite manufacturing, the industry can unlock timber’s full value, ensuring it plays a central role in meeting both housing demands and sustainability targets. 

For more information about the STA, visit: www.timefortimber.org