Why we still use timber today along with modern materials.

Although it is rare to see a house built entirely from timber in the UK today, it is not unheard of, and timber is still used in most modern homes for floorboards, roof frames and more. So why should we keep using timber alongside modern materials such as concrete, steel and plastic? As Southampton Timber Merchants http://www.timbco.co.uk/ will tell you, it is still one of the best materials for many construction projects.

It Is Natural and Biodegradable

Unlike plastic, timber is a natural material. At the end of its life it can be reused, recycled or will eventually break down, rather than sitting in landfill for centuries.

It Is a Good Insulator

Timber does not conduct heat as easily as concrete or metal, which makes it a good material for helping to keep homes warm. Trees themselves are also used in towns and cities to reduce the urban heat island effect.

It Lasts

Properly treated and protected timber can last for a very long time, although the conditions it is used in make a big difference.

It Can Be Sustainable

Choosing timber from well-managed forests, certified by schemes such as FSC or PEFC, helps make sure that more trees are planted to replace those that are felled. However, trees take decades to grow to maturity, so responsible forestry is essential.

Softwood and Hardwood

Pine is a softwood, yet it is used a huge amount in construction and furniture because it is strong, straight-grained, easy to work and good value. The terms softwood and hardwood do not actually describe how hard the wood is. Softwoods come from conifers, while hardwoods come from broadleaved trees, and some hardwoods, such as balsa, are softer than many softwoods.