Why timber façades remain popular in contemporary housing

Timber cladding has become synonymous with contemporary housing design. From moody, black-timber homes to painted timber cabins reminiscent of Scandi architecture, it is one of the most iconic looks of 21st-century buildings. Interestingly, the love for timber cladding is not fading,  and it looks as though wooden facades are here to stay.

But why has timber cladding become such a staple in modern British architecture? Here is what our timber experts have to say.

Prioritising Sustainability in Construction

Sustainability in construction and design is a growing priority. Almost two-thirds of prospective homebuyers in the UK are actively looking for a sustainable home and where a demand exists, the industry soon follows. For construction professionals and architects, there is an increasing expectation to consider sustainability, including when it comes to building materials. Timber cladding is a practical solution.

Timber is renowned for its eco-friendly credentials. A tree plays an important role in our world’s carbon sequestration by absorbing CO₂ as it grows, and then storing it within its cells for the lifespan of the timber. When responsibly sourced and used appropriately, timber can store carbon and help reduce a building’s overall embodied carbon.

However, to be truly sustainable, timber must be sourced responsibly. At EcoChoice, we work with timber from woodlands certified to FSC or PEFC standards, providing independent assurance around responsible forest management, biodiversity and social safeguards.

Versatility in Design

For architects, timber is a wonderful building material to work with. With the many demands of modern aesthetics, it gives designers the freedom to play with colour, texture and form in a way that few other facade materials allow.

Different timber species, for instance, bring different colours and grains to the building’s exterior which can drastically affect the overall style. Cedar cladding, as an example, brings warmth and character to contemporary buildings with a consistent grain which lends itself well to modern minimalism. Larch cladding is far lighter in tone, creating a welcoming aesthetic which does not overwhelm building facades.

Designers can also work with cladding profiles, smooth or grooved boards and different finishes to adapt the timber to suit client demands..

A High-Performance Material

Timber is not a construction material which should be underestimated.Exterior timber cladding can last for decades when the right species, detailing and maintenance regime are used. With an increasing perception that new build properties are lower quality, this is not an advantage that those in the construction industry can afford to ignore.

The right timber species is strong, hard-wearing and capable of withstanding the demands of British weather (rain!). It can protect your walls against moisture and decay, providing a weatherproof facade to increase the performance of your property. Timber’s low thermal conductivity also makes it an effective insulator – a major reason why you will see timber cladding on so many Scandinavian homes.

Because of these reasons, timber carries a strong perception of quality. It is often associated with bespoke architecture, premium developments and carefully considered design. In a competitive housing market, this signal of quality can help new builds stand out against older homes.

Choose Sustainable Timber Cladding

Whether you are an industry professional or looking for inspiration for your contemporary home, timber cladding is a facade option which is well worth considering. It brings sustainability, durability and thermal efficiency to new housing, as well as plenty of aesthetic versatility. Make sure you are making the most of your cladding by choosing responsibly sourced timber from EcoChoice.

Ready to start a timber cladding order? Contact us today, and we will be happy to help.