Benefits of Timber
Structural Strength and Flexibility
CLT provides comparable structural strength to both reinforced concrete and steel frames.
It is more flexible than concrete, undergoing significant deformation before breaking, and matches the structural performance of steel for
Weight
CLT is significantly lighter than both concrete and steel. A cubic meter of CLT weighs around 400 kg, compared to 2.7 tons for concrete and the higher density of steel.
This lighter weight reduces transportation costs and lessens the need for heavy-duty foundations.
Environmental Impact
CLT construction has a much smaller carbon footprint compared to both concrete and steel.
Concrete production contributes 8% of global CO2 emissions, and steel production is also energy-intensive with high CO2 emissions. In contrast, CLT sequesters carbon throughout its lifecycle, promoting sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Thermal and Acoustic Insulation
CLT offers superior thermal insulation compared to both concrete and steel, with a 100 mm thick CLT wall providing equivalent insulation to a 1.8 meter thick concrete wall.
CLT’s natural properties also provide better acoustic insulation, reducing noise transmission more effectively than steel frames, which require additional insulation materials.
Precision and Efficiency
CLT panels are pre-fabricated with high precision, requiring minimal adjustments on-site. Assembly is quick and efficient, reducing construction time and labor costs.
Precision and conscious design means we can achieve an almost zero waste build process. Waste on a brick and mortar site can be up to 30%
Sustainability
CLT chars on the surface when exposed to fire, creating a protective layer that maintains structural integrity for longer periods. Properly constructed CLT buildings can also be airtight, minimizing smoke spread.
Steel frames can weaken and collapse under high temperatures unless treated with fireresistant coatings, which can add to construction costs and complexity.
Diverse Potential
CLT construction has a much smaller carbon footprint compared to both concrete and steel. Concrete production contributes 8% of global CO2 emissions, and steel production is also energy-intensive with high CO2 emissions. In contrast, CLT sequesters carbon throughout its lifecycle, promoting sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Cost Saving
CLT offers superior thermal insulation compared to both concrete and steel, with a 100 mm thick CLT wall providing equivalent insulation to a 1.8 meter thick concrete wall. CLT’s natural properties also provide better acoustic insulation, reducing noise transmission more effectively than steel frames, which require additional insulation materials.