What people expect from modern timber projects

Whether working with homeowners or on public sector works, the demands around modern timber projects have changed. As a construction professional, you need to be ticking a whole host of new boxes to keep clients happy, from the type of timber you use to requirements around supply chains. Not sure where to begin? Get to grips with what people expect from modern timber projects with these insights from our timber professionals.

Genuine and Traceable Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer a ‘nice to have’, but a baseline expectation. Clients want to know from where their timber comes and how it has been harvested, with a clear understanding of the environmental and ethical impacts of their chosen construction material. For commercial and public sector works, there is also an increasing demand for documentation which demonstrates the sustainability of timber, which in some cases may include Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).

The simplest way to ensure genuine, traceable sustainability is to work with reliable timber suppliers, such as our team at EcoChoice. All our timber – from decking to construction joists – is sourced from responsibly managed forests and is independently certified by either the FSC® or PEFC. We will be happy to supply you with the documentation you need, whether it is for government compliance or simply to provide the best standard of services for your clients.

High Performance and Longevity

Modern timber projects need to be built to last. The public is increasingly suspicious of low-quality construction, with over 50% put off buying new builds as they believe older properties are better built. To combat this pessimism, modern timber construction needs to be crafted from durable, high-performing species which are uniquely specified for the project.

For instance, if you are adding cladding to the exterior of a building, you need a timber which can withstand the elements with reduced maintenance requrements. Our team’s top choices for high-performance species include Canadian Western Red Cedar, Chestnut and ThermoWood.

Contemporary Aesthetics With Design Flexibility

One of the perks of timber for modern projects is that it provides plenty of room for design flexibility. Timber can be stained, oiled and painted to change the overall look, or left to weather naturally for a rustic chic look. You can also specify timber species based on aesthetics, helping you design a construction which is exactly what your clients require.

Contemporary timber favourites include Treated Pine, ThermoWood, Douglas Fir and Larch.

Supplier Reliability

With more suppliers at their fingertips, clients want to know that you are working with a good team. They are going to expect a wide range of timber species and products, clear lead times and predictable delivery, and it is down to you to make that happen. It is also easier than ever for clients to research your timber suppliers independently, making it important that you choose a well-reviewed team with a professional online presence. The easy solution? Work with our team at EcoChoice.

Work With Our Sustainable Timber Experts

From landscaping to marine works, we supply sustainable timber to modern construction projects across the UK. We will provide everything you need to deliver quality services to your clients, from a detailed timber species library full of essential information to sustainability certification.

To learn more or start working together, chat with our team today.