Popularity of Timber Frame Construction

Popularity of pure tone barf kink1.0 INTRODUCTIONThis carry off pass on body-buildula at the increasing generality surround lumber rig turn in the twirl persistence. It volition port at why this trend is inveterate across the UK and how this image of wrench keister be applied to variant twist types. shade phase manifestation is swell up-nigh nonably utilize in parts of the manhood such(prenominal) as USA, Canada and Australia yet it is macrocosm employ lots frequently through come forward the UK in to a greater extent naked magazines as well. social class on year the mart sh ar for caliber figure eddy has increased. Scotland is leading the way in this knit stitch by use whole tone vagabond wrench often much than their neighbours.The character based for this type of edifice preserve quick be anchor in Scotland and this may go some way to explaining why it is and so so popular in Scotland.1.1 FACTS AND FIGURESFor the tenth consecu tive year the market sh be for tint border social coordinate has increased,25% of e real(prenominal) radical houses in the UK atomic number 18 tint skeletal plazament,As precedingly stated, Scotland is the close to popular country for character close in locution in the UK that purge con arrayring this 75% of all spick-and-span houses in Scotland ar woodland carcass and that percentage persist ins to come up. excessively, rase during a recession when the crook industry has perhaps been hit as embarrassing as any worker(a) industry step assemble bend only dropped by 26% time oppo range device methods dropped most 38% in 2008. UK smell effect affiliation trailer 2010 pageboy 5 (www. look- place.org)The trend is excessively growth step to the foreside of the UK, in Ireland for example. This is endorsed by the fol down in the mouthing quote. caliberland trunk homes soon account for 25% of new build homes in Ireland? (www.ramstowndevelopments .com)2.0 METHOD OF anatomical organise spirit grade construction agency that the burden-bearing repugns be indeed whole step gores. In other structures this could be brand name or blocks for example. These character panels ar make halt away land site to an train size and when they ar prerequisite, they atomic number 18 simply transported by hand truck from the eventory to the site. They ordure whence be installed by men development pulleys and ropes or if the panels be too giant and heavy- a wee exsert hobo be use to take up away this task.The panel itself is ordinarily make up of solid lineament- to take the load of the structure and this is sheathe usually by ply woods or OSB- Oriented Strand visiting card, which is usually sourced from Scotland. These members ensure that the panel has suitable speciality and is withal rigid. Once the feeling cast off installation is complete, the foreign flip out of the construct provoke then be insta lled. This clear be brickwork or any work on of lining or a rendered finish. in that location ar in point dickens types of panels available- namely the Open Panel closes the panel leave behind be dry-lined after the insularism, vapour layer and go hurt been installed on site. The other panel is the Closed Panel and is this matter this is all done in the factory. UK character class association pre ensure 2010 page 11 (www. musical note- spew.org) at that place progress to in any case been advances in the devise of I-Joists in timber abut placements. There argon now luminousness I-Joists available but they rush the greater strength and durability because the flanges ar wider and the joist itself is not solid wood as has been the case in previous years- it git simply be plywood or OSB. plateful 1 visualize demo lightweight I-Joists, which be easier to handle but smooth strong enough to stand pat the load world rested on it collect to the wide flanges. (www. compilewiseltd.co.uk)2.1 amplify pulpThere be in reality cardinal forms of timber fix construction. These atomic number 18 called Balloon position and political program Frame. Balloon Frame has been superseded present tense by Platform Frame but a brief adumbrate is explained on both.The Balloon Frame form of construction simply wets that the studs that gift up the exterior wall atomic number 18 one yearn section which spans from the ground to the ceiling prime of the top account. A aviate frame consists of two- tale height panels with an intermediate floor suspended from the formwork.? Chudley and Greeno (2008, p.386)Problems are open-and-shut with this form of construction bring up usher out spread easier because of the large panels e genuinelyplacesized panels may be much elusive to findLarge panels impart as well be to a greater extent sticky to handleHeating bills could be high gear(prenominal) because in that respect is no insulation between a manner and the exterior wallsDrawbacks such as these mean that the Platform Frame is more popular and is apply today in preference to the Balloon Frame.2.2 weapons platform FRAMEAs previously mentioned, this is the form of timber frame construction favoured today in the UK. It differs from the Balloon Frame, as the structure is create up floor by floor.Basic rank of events would implyEngineer enumerates out sizes required by looking at the clients drawingsMaterials uniform and pre textileated in factoryMaterials arrive on site- only as requiredBase of the structure is marked out lumber floor joists are displace into place using a small unf ancientWalls are erected and positioned on top of floor joists- once once again using a small cranePrefabricated roof is also positioned in by a crane on top of the wall panels pitfall barriers/ liberation stops are installedFelt and battens are applied to roof- structure is now peeingtightextraneous layer rotter now be bum ap plied as well as tiles or slates on the roofInternal work discharge now be installed dwelling house 2 Image seeing a floor macrocosm lifted into position by crane (www.ramstowndevelopments.com)(sketch 2 drawings from page 171 of chudley greeno)3.0 ADVANTAGES OF TIMBER FRAMETimber frame construction leaves quite a few gains e in truthplace brick and block or steel frame constructionQuick to erect- can be completed speedy than using brick and blocks as there is no lard to wait for plaster to dry. Also, timber can still be installed in the rain when brick or blocks cant and is also not affected by the icing the puck identical mortar is.Easy to transport- panels, truss roofs, timber floors etc are tardily loaded on to a lorry and delivered on site as needed also ensuring the site isnt cluttered up with materials that are not yet needed.Easy for the contractor to forecast the completion watch of the get a line- the job depart run on time easier and go out not be d elayed due to withstand as wintry conditions can delay progress on site. cleanable site- as e genuinelything is measured to condition there pass on be very little material s waste on site gist more profits, less money fatigued on dumping waste in landfills and less chance of an inadvertent injury also.Smooth and dry- the surface is easy to habilitate and also easy to render. relegate quality- as the frame is fabricated bump off site to meet make Regulations there is less chance of humane error.Can be installed by small crane to meet a tight deadline or by workmen as a cheaper option.Extensions can easy be incorporated, as timber and plasterboard are easier to remove than blocks.Also easier to design a create to suit the clients exact taste and possibly make a edifice unique form others. (www.trada.co.uk)Once the shell of the make is complete- this subject matter it is watertight and the inseparable kit and boodle can begin. It only takes nigh 5 days to achieve a watertight house.3.1 THERMAL public presentationTimber is an excellent insulator and this in turn center that timber framed buildings store heat very well. This then leads heating bills being reduced, which in turn also means less fossil fuels are being utilise- be it oil for of import heating or ember for a shoot. How much money can be saved on heating bills varies and see-through claims are made well-nigh this. It is hard to calculate because other factors need to be considered such as the specification of the building, the occupants of that building and so on. One timber frame company called Ramstown Developments claim that Timber framing is an power saving placement that cuts an average of 33% off the annual cost of heating your home.? (www.ramstowndevelopments.com/)How high-fidelity these figures are forget be open to debate but there is little doubt that timber frame construction does perplex an advantage when it comes downwards to thermal carrying into action. more opposite timber frame companies populate and because of this they depart specify the materials and construction and installation of the components slightly differently, thus bad slightly different results. However, the UK Timber Fame Association, who represents over 85% of UK timber frame manufacture states that Using a standard timber frame system achieves U-values between 0.30 and 0.27 using readily available and standard insulation- and using higher performance insulation and insulating breather membranes can boost these figures even more.?(www.timber-frame.org)The keyword in the aforementioned recital is standard- meaning this is the minimum level of thermal performance that can be expected, so obviously this can be im turn offd upon by having a higher specification. One such company is Scotframe? who have designed a timber frame system which has a U-value of 0.11 which is very impressive when the U-value limit for walls in 1965 was actually 1.7.The system is a clos ed timber-framed panel, usually includes140mmstuds sheathe both sides with Oriented Strand Board (OSB) and factory filled with polyurethan foam insulation.The internal side of the panel has a vapour delay heat reflective membraneand an carriage gap is created between this and the internal wall cladding to make a service zone.The exterior side has a breathable waterproof membrane and 50mm ofpolyurethan foam cavity insulation.To develop that these panels are indeed extremely thermally efficient- they have been tested by the National Physical Laboratory who substantiate a U-value of 0.11 W/m2K when the international cladding is taken into account. This system can be installed without the cavity insulation- but as can be expected, the U-value results will not be as true(p). This system from Scotframe actually meets the meets the C02 aims which have been castigate at intervals of 2010, 2013 and 2016- at this stage. (www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/)PLATE 5 Image showing wha t the Scotframe system compromises of. (www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/)3.2 ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCESince timber frame performs so well in thermal performance, it isnt very surprising to gather that it also performs well in the acoustic perspective also. This could be largely down to the fact that so galore(postnominal) layers can absorb sound secure like curtains and carpet absorbs sound smash than an empty room with hard surfaces. In fact BREs Case theater of operations TF2000 bring that even a multi-storey project would out perform building regulations for acoustic insulation.?(www.framewiseltd.co.uk)This statement therefore echoes these thoughts and actually emphasises that it more than satisfies mental synthesis Regulations. What is even more interesting is that this is not for a small cosy dwelling- it is actually in terms of a multi-storey structure.3.3 flack catcher PERFORMANCETimber is more susceptible to sting than materials such as cover, bricks, blocks or ste el. This however, does not mean that timber frame structures are more of a attack hazard. Timber frame structures are more possible to be burnt down during the actually construction phase, when the installation is not complete. This could be due to an accidental fire blow uping on site or credibly the more likely case of vandalism. The HSEs figures of 11 fires separately day in the construction industry advocates this theory. Fire refuge on Timber Frame grammatical construction Sites, page 5 highlights this, brasss annual UK fire statistics show that two thirds of fires in construction industry premises are started deliberately.? (www.timber-frame.org/)Fires that do start accidentally will not spread as slow once the installation has been complete, because the fire resistant plasterboard will see to this and also the external cladding will prove a difficult surface for the fire to engulf.There are of course ship canal in which the threat of fire can be minimisedDesign out th e need for hot-works, i.e. working with a blowtorch.If hot-works are required then that field of study should be monitored for 1 hour and again 2 ours later as a precaution.Keep the site straighten out with no timber shavings or pieces of paper lying around, as these could start a fire easily (this of course would be skillful come on any construction site)Ensure ingenuous site tribute to keep potential thieves and vandals at bay- again unspoiled like on any construction site. Fire Safety On Timber Frame kink Sites page 10 (www.timber-frame.org)At this stage it should be dysphoric that timber frame construction is quick to install and because of this it is easy to bear upon a point when fire resistant materials are in place and the risk of fire is therefore greatly reduced. Also, cavity fire barriers will reduce the spread of fire. They are placed at openings in external walls, at corners, at each floor level, at eaves level, around pipes, cables etcIt is also worthy to men tion that timber frame buildings do of course have to pass the relevant structure Regulations as fire is a very serious matter. So if they recompense these needs they are as arctic as any other form of construction in that aspect.4.0 surroundingsTerms such as C02 emissions, global warming, carbon footprint and greenhouse gases are often the composition of conversation in todays world. Everyone is being urged to think about the environment and the construction industry is probably under the microscope as much as any other sector.As mentioned previously one of the advantages of timber frame construction is that it reduces the personnels of combustion fossil fuels- such as oil or coal. This therefore means it also minimises the greenhouse effect as well.Unlike steel or concrete- there is no need for any manufacturing, refining or extracting as timber is natural.Strength for strength, concrete uses 5 times (and steel uses 6 times) more energy to amaze than timber?(www.timber-f rame.org)Overall C02 emissions for timber construction (the em-bodied carbon are up to six times lower than the emissions associated with masonry construction materials? UK timber frame association take in 2010 page 19 (www.timber-frame.org)That statement may not hold much relevance until the governings stance on this reduce is made get in- Come October 2010, the Government will slash the level of tolerable CO2 emissions generated by new builds by 30%. There is a neertheless reduction of 30% plan for 2013 and yet another of the selfsame(prenominal) amount due to come in to force in 2016?(www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/)This kick upstairs proves just how big of a annoyance this matter is and that the Government are acting quickly and have very clear targets in genius for the future.Some timber frame companies are also trying to bewilder this message to the public, as advocated by Deeside timber frame- Raise awareness of environmental issues with our customers, supp liers and staff? is listed as one of their objectives regarding environmental matters. (www.deesidetimberframe.co.uk)Also, since timber is being sourced topically in Europe and frequently in Scotland- it means there is no bulky journeys to transport the material afield as can often be the case with steel when it is in short supply.4.1 SUSTAINABILITYTimber is a very sustainable material. This is simply due to the fact that the timber comes from managed forests and for any tree that is cut down- two are planted to replace it. As well as this the Government also introduced a scheme highborn the figure for Sustainable Homes in 2006. UK timber frame association watch 2010 page 7 (www.timber-frame.org)To summarise, this prefatorialally states that the Government wants homes to be more energy efficient and that Level 3 is the basic standard expected in the average housing scheme, with this rising to a Level 6 for all new homes by 2016.Issues which affect what level the structure wil l be credited with depend on two things- how energy efficient the buildings fabric is and also how the material itself was sourced. Timber can achieve a good rating on both fronts because as previously mentioned it is easy to source and doesnt have to be transported long distances and also timber frame buildings have a very good thermal performance and can reduce heating bills.5.0 NON-DOMESTIC BUILDINGS AND OTHER PROJECTSIt would be fair to say that when most population think of timber frame construction, they think of low rise buildings like domestic dwellings. However, timber frame buildings are not just bungalows and two storey houses. Timber frame buildings include hotels, student accommodation and such like. With structure Regulations always being updated and changed Timber frame can currently go up to 18 metres within the current regulations. This has already allowed the construction of a 7 storey building in Bedminster in Bristol.? (www.timber-frame.org)Further examples of surprising projects include a primary school which has over 400 children in attendance. St Lukes elementary School in the Wolverhampton subject field was actually completed in 16 weeks- which was 2 weeks ahead of agenda It cost 5.9m to construct and was given a rating of Excellent by BREEAM. This rating was of such a high standard that it is actually the starting time time it has been awarded to a building in Britain. (BREEAM is the BRE Environmental Assessment Method.) crown 6 Image of St Lukes CE Primary School, Blakenhall GardensUK timber frame association view 2010 page 26 (www.timber-frame.org)Other such projects include a NHS Adolescent Unit in Wales, where in this instance timber frame was ideal due to the fact that it was manufactured offsite and this meant less time onsite, making noise and disrupting the patients. A further example includes the area that was built on the Isle of contemplate. Since this structure would be subject to winds and rain- it would be expect that steel or concrete would be the material of choice. However, cost of transporting these materials turn up to be a huge factor, linked with the fact that once again timber frame could be installed much quicker.PLATE 7 Image of the new timber frame theatre on Isle of MullUK timber frame association preview 2010 page 26 (www.timber-frame.org)As well as these structures, timber frame simulacrums have also been erected to ameliorate our knowledge and findings on the performance of timber frame. One such prototype is the Kingspan beacon fire which was designed and built to show how well timber frame would or would not perform when the structure was going to be an atypical shape. As with all buildings, small faults were found and good feedback was received on how improvements could be made. However, a Level 6 rating under the Code of Sustainable Homes was reached- even though this target doesnt need to be achieved until 2016.PLATE 8 Image of Kingspan Lighthouse which achieved a Level 6 rating.UK timber frame association preview 2010 page 9 (www.timber-frame.org)6.0 wet CONTENTAll timber that is to be used for construction purposes will have a certain wet contented. Different timbers will have different wet content depending on their use. For example, timber that is going to be used at junctions in the building where dampness could form will need to have a low moisture content. Kilns are used to dry timber out to a certain specification. Moisture content can be calculated by completing the following figuringMoisture Content %= (wet weight)-(dry weight)/ dry weight x 100%? Chudley and Greeno (2007, p.175)6.1 bane OF ROTRot spreading throughout a building is the nightmare of every client and builder, as it can cause unlimited ravish and mean that in the extreme cases the building cannot be repaired. However, Dry timber?, which is a timber with a moisture content of under 20%, is not at risk of decay. Lyons (2007, p.105) far-famed that the reduction in w ater content to below 20% will arrest any early fungal decay, which can only set down supra this critical level.?This should circulate any doubts that timber is very undetermined to rot. Furthermore, the timber is also sprayed with necessary preservatives before installation to satisfy Building Regulation requirements.7.0 CONCLUSIONThis report has briefly looked at how timber frame structures perform in legion(predicate) fields. It has also muster ind how timber frame can be used in a variety of different structures- some of which many people would not associate timber frame construction with. It is therefore clear to see that this market will continue to grow, with the market possibly accelerating more so in Ireland in the expert future. This is because Ireland is possibly the country which has the most room for growth in this sector, joined with the fact that Scotland is nearby and would prove to be a very good source for timber.This report has also addressed concerns rela ting to timber and the perception many people still have about using timber in construction- such as fire hazards, risk of rot, unable to be used in multi-storey buildings to name just a few. Once people are better educated and made more aware about using timber as the structure for buildings- then these myths will soon be dispersed. After all, as mentioned in the introduction this form of construction is used in countries such as USA, Canada and Australia. It is of course the most popular form of construction used in the developed world- meaning it can handle the hot summers in Australia and also the windy wets nights and wintry conditions in Scotland. It has taken Britain and Ireland many years to adopt this practice and some will no doubt wish to never embrace timber frame construction.However, the old adage the times are changing? certainly springs to mind at this point. With the Government endorsing the use of timber frame and with environmental and sustainability concerns the topic of conversation on a perpetual basis- this definitely seems like the route to take. Timber Frame is probably the biggest individual advance in building methods in recent years?(www.walkertimbergroup.com)The above quote certainly is a bold one but with the facts in figures produced in this report it is hard to argue against such a statement.8.0 REFERENCES- WebsitesSource- UK timber frame association preview 2010 (pdf file) (www.timber-frame.org) accessed fourth FebruarySource-Fire Safety on Timber Frame Construction Sites (pdf file) (www.timber-frame.org)http//www.ramstowndevelopments.com/index.php?id=47 accessed fourth Februaryhttp//www.framewiseltd.co.uk/Systems/i-joists-the-simple-framing-system.html accessed 4th Februaryhttp//www.trada.co.uk/techinfo/library/view/6BA4B8A2-79A8-451B-AB6F-474D37137B4F/Timber+frame+construction+-+an+outline/ar01s02.html accessed fifth Februaryhttp//www.timber-frame.org/html/Building_And_Construction/Benefits_of_Timber_Frame/ accessed 5th F ebruaryhttp//www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/ accessed 5th Februaryhttp//www.deesidetimberframe.co.uk/environmental.htm accessed 5th Februaryhttp//www.walkertimbergroup.com/walkertimber/products/products/timberframe1 accessed 5th FebruaryBooksChudley, R., Greeno, R. (2008) Building Construction Handbook. 7th ed. Oxford Elsevier LtdChudley, R., Greeno, R. (2007) Construction Technology. 4th ed. Essex Pearson Education LimitedLyons, A., (2007) Materials for Architects Builders. tertiary ed. Oxford Elsevier Ltd.Popularity of Timber Frame ConstructionPopularity of Timber Frame Construction1.0 INTRODUCTIONThis report will look at the increasing popularity surrounding timber frame construction in the construction industry. It will look at why this trend is continuing across the UK and how this form of construction can be applied to various building types. Timber frame construction is most notably used in parts of the world such as USA, Canada and Australia but it is being used mor e frequently throughout the UK in more recent times as well. Year on year the market constituent for timber frame construction has increased. Scotland is leading the way in this field by using timber frame construction much more than their neighbours.The timber sourced for this type of construction can readily be found in Scotland and this may go some way to explaining why it is indeed so popular in Scotland.1.1 FACTS AND FIGURESFor the tenth consecutive year the market share for timber frame construction has increased,25% of all new houses in the UK are timber frame,As previously stated, Scotland is the most popular country for timber frame construction in the UK but even considering this 75% of all new houses in Scotland are timber frame and that percentage continues to rise.Also, even during a recession when the construction industry has possibly been hit as hard as any other industry timber frame construction only dropped by 26% while other construction methods dropped almost 3 8% in 2008. UK timber frame association preview 2010 page 5 (www.timber-frame.org)The trend is also growing outside of the UK, in Ireland for example. This is endorsed by the following quote. Timber frame homes currently account for 25% of new build homes in Ireland? (www.ramstowndevelopments.com)2.0 METHOD OF CONSTRUCTIONTimber frame construction means that the weight-bearing walls are indeed timber panels. In other buildings this could be steel or blocks for example. These timber panels are made off site to an exact size and when they are required, they are simply transported by truck from the factory to the site. They can then be installed by men using pulleys and ropes or if the panels are too large and heavy- a small crane can be used to carry out this task.The panel itself is usually made up of solid timber- to take the load of the structure and this is sheathed usually by plywood or OSB- Oriented Strand Board, which is usually sourced from Scotland. These members ensure that the panel has suitable strength and is also rigid. Once the timber frame installation is complete, the external leaf of the building can then be installed. This can be brickwork or any form of cladding or a rendered finish.There are in fact two types of panels available- namely the Open Panel meaning the panel will be dry-lined after the insulation, vapour layer and services have been installed on site. The other panel is the Closed Panel and is this case this is all done in the factory. UK timber frame association preview 2010 page 11 (www.timber-frame.org)There have also been advances in the design of I-Joists in timber frame systems. There are now lighter I-Joists available but they have the greater strength and durability because the flanges are wider and the joist itself is not solid wood as has been the case in previous years- it can simply be plywood or OSB.PLATE 1 Image showing lightweight I-Joists, which are easier to handle but still strong enough to withstand the load bei ng rested on it due to the wide flanges. (www.framewiseltd.co.uk)2.1 BALLOON FRAMEThere are actually two forms of timber frame construction. These are called Balloon Frame and Platform Frame. Balloon Frame has been superseded nowadays by Platform Frame but a brief outline is explained on both.The Balloon Frame form of construction simply means that the studs that make up the exterior wall are one long section which spans from the ground to the ceiling height of the top floor. A balloon frame consists of two-storey height panels with an intermediate floor suspended from the formwork.? Chudley and Greeno (2008, p.386)Problems are obvious with this form of constructionFire can spread easier because of the large panelsLarge panels may be more difficult to findLarge panels will also be more difficult to handleHeating bills could be higher because there is no insulation between a room and the exterior wallsDrawbacks such as these mean that the Platform Frame is more popular and is used to day in preference to the Balloon Frame.2.2 PLATFORM FRAMEAs previously mentioned, this is the form of timber frame construction favoured today in the UK. It differs from the Balloon Frame, as the structure is built up floor by floor.Basic sequence of events would includeEngineer calculates out sizes required by looking at the clients drawingsMaterials ordered and prefabricated in factoryMaterials arrive on site- only as requiredBase of the structure is marked outTimber floor joists are lifted into place using a small craneWalls are erected and positioned on top of floor joists- again using a small cranePrefabricated roof is also positioned in by a crane on top of the wall panelsCavity barriers/fire stops are installedFelt and battens are applied to roof- structure is now watertightExternal layer can now be can applied as well as tiles or slates on the roofInternal services can now be installedPLATE 2 Image showing a floor being lifted into position by crane (www.ramstowndevelopments .com)(sketch 2 drawings from page 171 of chudley greeno)3.0 ADVANTAGES OF TIMBER FRAMETimber frame construction holds quite a few advantages over brick and block or steel frame constructionQuick to erect- can be completed faster than using brick and blocks as there is no need to wait for mortar to dry. Also, timber can still be installed in the rain when brick or blocks cant and is also not affected by the frost like mortar is.Easy to transport- panels, trussed roofs, timber floors etc are easily loaded on to a lorry and delivered on site as needed also ensuring the site isnt cluttered up with materials that are not yet needed.Easy for the Contractor to forecast the completion date of the project- the job will run on time easier and will not be delayed due to weather as wintry conditions can delay progress on site.Cleaner site- as everything is measured to specification there will be very little material waste on site meaning more profits, less money spent on dumping waste in landf ills and less chance of an injury also.Smooth and dry- the surface is easy to decorate and also easy to render.Better quality- as the frame is fabricated off site to meet Building Regulations there is less chance of human error.Can be installed by small crane to meet a tight deadline or by workmen as a cheaper option.Extensions can easily be incorporated, as timber and plasterboard are easier to remove than blocks.Also easier to design a building to suit the clients exact taste and possibly make a building unique form others. (www.trada.co.uk)Once the shell of the building is complete- this means it is watertight and the internal works can begin. It only takes around 5 days to achieve a watertight house.3.1 THERMAL PERFORMANCETimber is an excellent insulator and this in turn means that timber framed buildings store heat very well. This therefore leads heating bills being reduced, which in turn also means less fossil fuels are being used- be it oil for central heating or coal for a f ire. How much money can be saved on heating bills varies and bold claims are made about this. It is hard to calculate because other factors need to be considered such as the specification of the building, the occupants of that building and so on. One timber frame company called Ramstown Developments claim that Timber framing is an energy saving system that cuts an average of 33% off the annual cost of heating your home.? (www.ramstowndevelopments.com/)How accurate these figures are will be open to debate but there is little doubt that timber frame construction does have an advantage when it comes down to thermal performance. Many different timber frame companies exist and because of this they will specify the materials and construction and installation of the components slightly differently, thus giving slightly different results. However, the UK Timber Fame Association, who represents over 85% of UK timber frame manufacture states that Using a standard timber frame system achieves U-values between 0.30 and 0.27 using readily available and standard insulation- and using higher performance insulation and insulating breather membranes can boost these figures even more.?(www.timber-frame.org)The keyword in the aforementioned statement is standard- meaning this is the minimum level of thermal performance that can be expected, so obviously this can be modify upon by having a higher specification. One such company is Scotframe? who have designed a timber frame system which has a U-value of 0.11 which is very impressive when the U-value limit for walls in 1965 was actually 1.7.The system is a closed timber-framed panel, usually includes140mmstuds sheathed both sides with Oriented Strand Board (OSB) and factory filled with Polyurethane foam insulation.The internal side of the panel has a vapour control heat reflective membraneand an air gap is created between this and the internal wall cladding to make a service zone.The exterior side has a breathable waterproof memb rane and 50mm ofpolyurethane foam cavity insulation.To prove that these panels are indeed extremely thermally efficient- they have been tested by the National Physical Laboratory who confirmed a U-value of 0.11 W/m2K when the external cladding is taken into account. This system can be installed without the cavity insulation- but as can be expected, the U-value results will not be as good. This system from Scotframe actually meets the meets the C02 targets which have been set at intervals of 2010, 2013 and 2016- at this stage. (www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/)PLATE 5 Image showing what the Scotframe system compromises of. (www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/)3.2 ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCESince timber frame performs so well in thermal performance, it isnt very surprising to gather that it also performs well in the acoustic aspect also. This could be largely down to the fact that so many layers can absorb sound just like curtains and carpet absorbs sound better than an empty room wit h hard surfaces. In fact BREs Case study TF2000 found that even a multi-storey project would out perform building regulations for acoustic insulation.?(www.framewiseltd.co.uk)This statement therefore echoes these thoughts and actually emphasises that it more than satisfies Building Regulations. What is even more interesting is that this is not for a small cosy dwelling- it is actually in terms of a multi-storey structure.3.3 FIRE PERFORMANCETimber is more susceptible to fire than materials such as concrete, bricks, blocks or steel. This however, does not mean that timber frame structures are more of a fire hazard. Timber frame structures are more likely to be burnt down during the actually construction phase, when the installation is not complete. This could be due to an accidental fire starting on site or probably the more likely case of vandalism. The HSEs figures of 11 fires each day in the construction industry advocates this theory. Fire Safety on Timber Frame Construction Site s, page 5 highlights this, Governments annual UK fire statistics show that two thirds of fires in construction industry premises are started deliberately.? (www.timber-frame.org/)Fires that do start accidentally will not spread as easily once the installation has been complete, because the fire resistant plasterboard will see to this and also the external cladding will prove a difficult surface for the fire to engulf.There are of course ways in which the threat of fire can be minimisedDesign out the need for hot-works, i.e. working with a blowtorch.If hot-works are required then that area should be monitored for 1 hour and again 2 ours later as a precaution.Keep the site tidy with no timber shavings or pieces of paper lying around, as these could start a fire easily (this of course would be good practice on any construction site)Ensure good site security to keep potential thieves and vandals at bay- again just like on any construction site. Fire Safety On Timber Frame Construction S ites page 10 (www.timber-frame.org)At this stage it should be stressed that timber frame construction is quick to install and because of this it is easy to reach a point when fire resistant materials are in place and the risk of fire is therefore greatly reduced. Also, cavity fire barriers will reduce the spread of fire. They are placed at openings in external walls, at corners, at each floor level, at eaves level, around pipes, cables etcIt is also worthy to mention that timber frame buildings do of course have to pass the relevant Building Regulations as fire is a very serious matter. So if they satisfy these needs they are as safe as any other form of construction in that aspect.4.0 ENVIRONMENTTerms such as C02 emissions, global warming, carbon footprint and greenhouse gases are often the topic of conversation in todays world. Everyone is being urged to think about the environment and the construction industry is probably under the microscope as much as any other sector.As mentio ned previously one of the advantages of timber frame construction is that it reduces the effects of burning fossil fuels- such as oil or coal. This therefore means it also minimises the greenhouse effect as well.Unlike steel or concrete- there is no need for any manufacturing, refining or extracting as timber is natural.Strength for strength, concrete uses 5 times (and steel uses 6 times) more energy to produce than timber?(www.timber-frame.org)Overall C02 emissions for timber construction (the em-bodied carbon are up to six times lower than the emissions associated with masonry construction materials? UK timber frame association preview 2010 page 19 (www.timber-frame.org)That statement may not hold much relevance until the Governments stance on this subject is made clear- Come October 2010, the Government will slash the level of permissible CO2 emissions generated by new builds by 30%. There is a further reduction of 30% planned for 2013 and yet another of the same amount due to co me in to force in 2016?(www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/)This further proves just how big of a concern this matter is and that the Government are acting quickly and have very clear targets in mind for the future.Some timber frame companies are also trying to convey this message to the public, as advocated by Deeside timber frame- Raise awareness of environmental issues with our customers, suppliers and staff? is listed as one of their objectives regarding environmental matters. (www.deesidetimberframe.co.uk)Also, since timber is being sourced locally in Europe and frequently in Scotland- it means there is no long journeys to transport the material overseas as can often be the case with steel when it is in short supply.4.1 SUSTAINABILITYTimber is a very sustainable material. This is simply due to the fact that the timber comes from managed forests and for every tree that is cut down- two are planted to replace it. As well as this the Government also introduced a scheme titled th e Code for Sustainable Homes in 2006. UK timber frame association preview 2010 page 7 (www.timber-frame.org)To summarise, this basically states that the Government wants homes to be more energy efficient and that Level 3 is the basic standard expected in the average housing scheme, with this rising to a Level 6 for all new homes by 2016.Issues which affect what level the structure will be credited with depend on two things- how energy efficient the buildings fabric is and also how the material itself was sourced. Timber can achieve a good rating on both fronts because as previously mentioned it is easy to source and doesnt have to be transported long distances and also timber frame buildings have a very good thermal performance and can reduce heating bills.5.0 NON-DOMESTIC BUILDINGS AND OTHER PROJECTSIt would be fair to say that when most people think of timber frame construction, they think of low rise buildings like domestic dwellings. However, timber frame buildings are not just bungalows and two storey houses. Timber frame buildings include hotels, student accommodation and such like. With Building Regulations always being updated and changed Timber frame can currently go up to 18 metres within the current regulations. This has already allowed the construction of a 7 storey building in Bedminster in Bristol.? (www.timber-frame.org)Further examples of surprising projects include a primary school which has over 400 children in attendance. St Lukes Primary School in the Wolverhampton area was actually completed in 16 weeks- which was 2 weeks ahead of schedule It cost 5.9m to construct and was given a rating of Excellent by BREEAM. This rating was of such a high standard that it is actually the first time it has been awarded to a building in Britain. (BREEAM is the BRE Environmental Assessment Method.)PATE 6 Image of St Lukes CE Primary School, Blakenhall GardensUK timber frame association preview 2010 page 26 (www.timber-frame.org)Other such projects include a NHS Adolescent Unit in Wales, where in this instance timber frame was ideal due to the fact that it was manufactured offsite and this meant less time onsite, making noise and disrupting the patients. A further example includes the theatre that was built on the Isle of Mull. Since this structure would be subject to winds and rain- it would be anticipated that steel or concrete would be the material of choice. However, cost of transporting these materials proved to be a huge factor, coupled with the fact that once again timber frame could be installed much quicker.PLATE 7 Image of the new timber frame theatre on Isle of MullUK timber frame association preview 2010 page 26 (www.timber-frame.org)As well as these structures, timber frame prototypes have also been erected to improve our knowledge and findings on the performance of timber frame. One such prototype is the Kingspan Lighthouse which was designed and built to show how well timber frame would or would not perform when the str ucture was going to be an unorthodox shape. As with all buildings, small faults were found and good feedback was received on how improvements could be made. However, a Level 6 rating under the Code of Sustainable Homes was reached- even though this target doesnt need to be achieved until 2016.PLATE 8 Image of Kingspan Lighthouse which achieved a Level 6 rating.UK timber frame association preview 2010 page 9 (www.timber-frame.org)6.0 MOISTURE CONTENTAll timber that is to be used for construction purposes will have a certain moisture content. Different timbers will have different moisture content depending on their use. For example, timber that is going to be used at junctions in the building where dampness could form will need to have a low moisture content. Kilns are used to dry timber out to a certain specification. Moisture content can be calculated by completing the following calculationMoisture Content %= (wet weight)-(dry weight)/ dry weight x 100%? Chudley and Greeno (2007, p. 175)6.1 THREAT OF ROTRot spreading throughout a building is the nightmare of every client and builder, as it can cause unlimited damage and mean that in the extreme cases the building cannot be repaired. However, Dry timber?, which is a timber with a moisture content of under 20%, is not at risk of decay. Lyons (2007, p.105) noted that the reduction in water content to below 20% will arrest any incipient fungal decay, which can only commence above this critical level.?This should dispel any doubts that timber is very exposed to rot. Furthermore, the timber is also sprayed with necessary preservatives before installation to satisfy Building Regulation requirements.7.0 CONCLUSIONThis report has briefly looked at how timber frame structures perform in numerous fields. It has also outlined how timber frame can be used in a variety of different structures- some of which many people would not associate timber frame construction with. It is therefore clear to see that this market will con tinue to grow, with the market possibly accelerating more so in Ireland in the near future. This is because Ireland is possibly the country which has the most room for growth in this sector, coupled with the fact that Scotland is nearby and would prove to be a very good source for timber.This report has also addressed concerns relating to timber and the perception many people still have about using timber in construction- such as fire hazards, risk of rot, unable to be used in multi-storey buildings to name just a few. Once people are better educated and made more aware about using timber as the structure for buildings- then these myths will soon be dispersed. After all, as mentioned in the introduction this form of construction is used in countries such as USA, Canada and Australia. It is of course the most popular form of construction used in the developed world- meaning it can handle the hot summers in Australia and also the windy wets nights and wintry conditions in Scotland. It has taken Britain and Ireland many years to adopt this practice and some will no doubt wish to never embrace timber frame construction.However, the old adage the times are changing? certainly springs to mind at this point. With the Government endorsing the use of timber frame and with environmental and sustainability concerns the topic of conversation on a regular basis- this definitely seems like the route to take. Timber Frame is probably the biggest single advance in building methods in recent years?(www.walkertimbergroup.com)The above quote certainly is a bold one but with the facts in figures produced in this report it is hard to argue against such a statement.8.0 REFERENCES- WebsitesSource- UK timber frame association preview 2010 (pdf file) (www.timber-frame.org) accessed 4th FebruarySource-Fire Safety on Timber Frame Construction Sites (pdf file) (www.timber-frame.org)http//www.ramstowndevelopments.com/index.php?id=47 accessed 4th Februaryhttp//www.framewiseltd.co.uk/System s/i-joists-the-simple-framing-system.html accessed 4th Februaryhttp//www.trada.co.uk/techinfo/library/view/6BA4B8A2-79A8-451B-AB6F-474D37137B4F/Timber+frame+construction+-+an+outline/ar01s02.html accessed 5th Februaryhttp//www.timber-frame.org/html/Building_And_Construction/Benefits_of_Timber_Frame/ accessed 5th Februaryhttp//www.scotframetimberengineering.co.uk/ accessed 5th Februaryhttp//www.deesidetimberframe.co.uk/environmental.htm accessed 5th Februaryhttp//www.walkertimbergroup.com/walkertimber/products/products/timberframe1 accessed 5th FebruaryBooksChudley, R., Greeno, R. (2008) Building Construction Handbook. 7th ed. Oxford Elsevier LtdChudley, R., Greeno, R. (2007) Construction Technology. 4th ed. Essex Pearson Education LimitedLyons, A., (2007) Materials for Architects Builders. 3rd ed. Oxford Elsevier Ltd.