Positive predictions for timber frame for 2006 have been sounded by the UK Timber Frame Association (UKTFA).
The organisation said the conclusions of a recently-published National Audit Office (NAO) report into modern methods of construction, rocketing gas prices which increase costs for the masonry industry and the impending introduction of new building regulations are among factors which suggest timber frame is heading for a bumper year.
UKTFA chairman Phil Key said the NAO report proves timber frame construction provides private sector developers with a financial benefit of up to £35 per m2.
The NAO study also says timber frame construction requires 20% fewer on-site labour days than masonry and homes are weathertight in almost half the time of brick and block. Snagging costs are also a third less for timber frame, while housing associations can benefit from earlier rental income.
Mr Key said the findings should lay to rest “myths” about timber frame concerning its build cost compared to masonry.
He said: “It’s clear to me that this is going to be a bumper year, but it’s not just the timber frame manufacturers that will benefit – the health of the whole UK housebuilding industry in 2006 could benefit from changing to timber frame.”
He said developers could build one additional house per week with exactly the same cost and resources by swapping from masonry to timber frame.
Mr Key said the updated Part L (conservation of fuel and power) of the Building Regulations, to be introduced on April 1, can be easily achieved with simple, highly insulated timber frame solutions which are already standard across the industry.
