Are oak frame houses more flammable than other constructions?

The Great Fire of London did not do timber any favours in the public eye. Often blamed on the abundance of wood in the city, it aligns with the general opinion that timber burns quickly and is not always a fire-safe option for a building. But would you believe us if we told you that that was a myth? Let’s take a look.

Are Oak Frame Houses More Flammable?

No, contrary to popular belief, Oak frame houses are not inherently more flammable than other types of constructions. Mind = blown. 

Oak is a hardwood which has a higher density and slower burn rate compared to softwoods, making it naturally more resistant to fire. That is not to say that it will not burn – it is still wood after all. But if you expose it to fire, you will see that it takes a lot for the wood actually to catch alight, and it is more likely to char than go up in flames.

However, it is important to consider that all buildings, regardless of the construction material, have a potential fire risk. Fire safety measures should always be put in place to ensure the safety of anyone inside and outside the building. 

Comply With Safety Regulations

Though Oak is not a bigger fire risk than other building materials, you will still need to take into consideration health and safety when building. This means complying with safety regulations, including having outlined escape routes, installing smoke detectors and taking measures to reduce the chance of fire spreading. Fire-resistant doors, for example, are a great way to make your structure more safe, as are sprinkler systems. 

Incorporate Fire Resistant Materials

Alongside your timber, be sure you only use fire-resistant materials in crucial areas. For example, any insulation should be coated in a fire-retardent, keeping your walls and Oak frame safe from the rapid spread of flames. 

Coat Your Exposed Oak Frame

If you are still concerned about using an Oak frame in a building, there are coatings you can apply to the wood to prevent the spread of fire. Intumescent coatings, for example, react when exposed to high temperatures and expand, forming a protective layer which helps slow down the combustion process and provides a barrier between the fire and the wood.

Speak to Experts

It is important to consult with local authorities, architects, timber experts and fire safety experts to ensure that all fire safety requirements are met during the design of your Oak frame house. By implementing appropriate fire safety measures, your building will be as safe as any other, giving you the peace of mind to sleep well at night. 

Find Oak For Your Frame at EcoChoice

At EcoChoice, we are timber experts. If you are looking for high-quality, sustainable Oak to build your fire-safe house frame, get in touch with us today. We will be happy to answer any questions, offer professional advice and start your order, making it easier than ever to build a home you will love.

Image: Petrut Romeo Paul / Shutterstock.com