Timber Frame Construction Continues to Grow Despite Recession

UK Construction has been one of the worst affected industries in the current recession. The housing market experienced its most difficult year in living memory with housing starts plummeting to levels last seen in 1924

2009 is not expected to see housing starts to climb much above 120,000 units. However, despite this unprecedented decline in volume, the UKTFA( www.timber-frame.org ) reports that timber frame industry has managed to perform better than other methods of construction, especially in the housing market. The timber frame share - of a much reduced market - rose to 25.6%, from 22.5% in 2007.

The next decade is expected to see a substantial change in the way in which new homes are built and how they perform in service. These new homes will be expected to be more energy efficient, be of a higher build quality and crucially be affordable. There is a growing recognition among construction industry professionals and consumers alike that timber frame is able to provide rapid and cost-effective construction; cost-efficiency in use; durability and genuine sustainability -using renewable materials that generate less CO2 than other building materials. If the UK construction industry is to achieve its low-carbon, higher quality and build volume objectives in the next decade timber frame construction will play large part in hitting the targets. Thomas Consulting have an experienced and trained team of engineers and technicians dedicated to providing quality timber frame design and detailing services. We work with many leading timber frame manufacturers and are experienced in residential, commercial and institutional buildings up to 7 storeys high. If you want to know more about these services please contact David Wyatt at our Chorley office.