Why choose wood?

Timber comes in a variety of colours, tones and textures. Colour is dependent on the species of timber and where it was grown, whereas the grain pattern will indicate the state of the surrounding environment and weather conditions. Some species, while technically the same or similar, will differ greatly in aesthetic due to the trees location while planted and growing. For example, trees in dryer areas might have tighter grain patterns due to slower growth, while those in wetter areas may grow more quickly, affecting the wood’s texture and colour.

As a natural material, timber exudes warmth and welcome. Studies[1] across the world have shown that natural building materials and décor can significantly improve people’s mental state and mood. This is why it’s such a popular material choice for the interior and exterior of homes.

[1] The Nature of Wood – Terrapin Bright Green

Wood’s ability to be repurposed makes it a popular choice for those seeking to build in an environmentally sustainable manner. Repurposing wood reduces waste and the need for new materials, aiding in environmental conservation. Furthermore, timber which has been ethically sourced from plantations and forests ensures that the timber removed is also replaced for the future.

Timber is not inherently fire-resistant in the way that materials like brick, concrete or steel are. However, it does possess certain characteristics that can make it perform differently in a fire compared to other materials.

When exposed to fire, the outer layers of timber will char. This charred layer acts as an insulating barrier, protecting the inner wood from further damage. The charring process can slow the rate at which the fire penetrates the timber, maintaining the structural integrity of the wood for a longer period compared to some other materials.

Certain timbers are naturally rated for BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) due to their inherent fire-resistant properties. Species like Merbau, Blackbutt, Spotted Gum, Red Ironbark, Silvertop Ash, and Turpentine have a natural resistance to fire and ember attack, making them suitable for use in bushfire-prone areas without requiring additional treatment. These timbers have a higher density and are less likely to catch fire easily, which qualifies them for use in constructions with specific BAL requirements. However, it’s important to verify their suitability for each BAL rating, as not all naturally fire-resistant timbers may meet the highest levels of bushfire attack standards.

BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) ratings are part of an Australian standard for construction in bushfire-prone areas. These ratings determine the level of bushfire attack and the associated risk to buildings. They guide the construction materials and methods to be used to improve a building’s resilience to bushfire attacks. BAL ratings range from low to extreme risk levels:

1. BAL-LOW: Very low risk.
2. BAL-12.5: Risk from embers and radiant heat up to 12.5 kW/m².
3. BAL-19: Increased risk, with radiant heat up to 19 kW/m².
4. BAL-29: Higher risk, with radiant heat up to 29 kW/m².
5. BAL-40: Very high risk, with increased levels of ember attack and radiant heat up to 40 kW/m².
6. BAL-FZ (Flame Zone): Extreme risk, direct exposure to flames from fire, in addition to radiant heat and ember attack.

Generally, timber is not recognised for its flexibility, but rather for its attributes of rigidity and strength. Despite this, it possesses a remarkable capacity for being worked and machined into complex profiles and shapes. Techniques such as steam bending and lamination enable the transformation of timber into bent or curved forms. While tools and machinery can work with almost all timber species, certain types exhibit superior suitability for detailed profiling and bending. These species, often chosen for their unique balance of flexibility and strength, allow for more intricate and durable designs in woodworking projects.

Timber is an incredibly versatile building material. It is suitable for a variety uses, though some species of timber are better suited for certain projects than others. Some uses of timber include cladding, decking, furniture, pergolas, building structures, and fences.

Timber is a naturally durable material, with varying species possessing varying degrees of strength and hardiness. Timber is categorised into varies classes which speak to the timber’s long-term durability when exposed to decay, pests and other environmental factors. Depending on the class of timber, some species have the ability to last for 50 years or more.

As the cost of plywood, veneer panelling, and other various methods of cladding or structural materials become more common, timber is slowly becoming a more costly investment. As such, it is also becoming a status symbol. New high-end, designer homes are being clad in timber and include timber flooring or feature walls and decks.