Historically the UK has been slow to follow the trends world wide to utilise timber as the principle material for construction purposes. Of late there has been an evident shift in the thinking, both from the public and local authorities. In Scotland 60% of all new builds are in timber or timber framed. The rest of the UK is trailing at about 30%. Below are some of the reasons for choosing timber.

Costs
As we are all aware, the costs of conventional construction is becoming increasingly prohibitive. Timber offers an extremely cost effective and aesthetically pleasing alternative.

Ease of Construction
Timber structures can be erected extremely quickly and easily, minimising on costs, time and more importantly, can be erected with minimal damage to the landscape.

Environment
With its warm, inviting atmosphere, the natural cycle of absorption and release of humidity, wood is the natural choice. In addition, timber breathes, filtering the air and generally producing a healthier living and working environment.

Insulation
Timber buildings have a very high insulation factor, which increases with the thickness of the timber. Which in turn, considerably reduces the use of insulation materials.

Durability
With the development of safe, effective and durable timber treatment, timber will last a considerable time, e.g. Tudor buildings. This makes it more than comparable with conventional structures, even when exposed to the harshest of conditions, as in Canada and Scandinavia.

Ease of Transportation
Timber, although very strong, is relatively light, therefore reducing the cost of transport.

Carbon Dioxide Emissions
Timber constructions produce the lowest carbon dioxide emissions in their production, fabrication and erection. Further to this, trees are in fact a product of carbon dioxide absorption and when used in construction, act as an effective carbon dioxide sink for future generations to come.

Sustainability
The timber used is sourced from managed plantations with a proven reputation of re-planting programs that is, in fact, increasing areas of forest on a sustainable basis.