The timber frame industry has welcomed fresh government proposals to improve the energy efficiency of new buildings by about 25%.
The publication of a consultation document on revisions to Part L (energy efficiency) of the Building Regulations has suggested lowering the target U-value of walls to 0.27W/m2K, with builders having to meet at least 0.35 W/m2K.
Bryan Woodley, chief executive of the UK Timber Frame Association (UKTFA), said he was pleased the government appeared to have accepted the framing systems industry’s recommendations for lower U-values.
He said: “It’s very straightforward for the timber frame industry to meet the new requirements. If anything, we would like more stringent requirements.”
Mr Woodley said the framing industry had also recommended a further improvement of between 0.20-0.22 W/m2K for proposed revisions in 2010.
“It is a political thing and we are having to give time to the other building methods to catch up,” he added.
Dr Paul Newman, TRADA Technology’s director of timber technology, said: “Improvements in thermal performance for timber frame buildings are relatively straightforward and if the technology does not exist here or in Ireland, where they have more challenging U-values, it already exists overseas.
“It does not require a massive leap forward, not in the same way as it does for other sectors. Improving energy standards cannot be bad news for timber frame.”
Part L consultation is due to end on October 22, with revisions scheduled for introduction in 2005.
