A transnational project that could improve timber cladding in harsh climates and provide a market for timber resources from Scotland and Norway is being developed.
Scotland is taking the lead in implementing the three-year EU Northern Periphery Programme (NPP) project which, if approved, could begin in January next year. It is being headed up by timber research consultant Ivor Davies.
The project involves the Scottish Highlands and Islands, Nord Trondelag in Norway, and the Faroe Islands and will cost between €400,000-700,000, 50% of which could be from the NPP.
Research institutes such as BRE are interested in being involved, as are Scottish wood processors and distributors – including niche manufacturers and larger sawmillers. It is hoped to interest similar companies and research providers from Norway, Finland and Iceland.
The project was prompted by the impact of climate change and the need to adapt climate specific design and building practices for external timber cladding.
Another prompt was the lack of local sourcing. Most timber cladding comes from Sweden but the significant timber resources in western Norway and Scotland could bring direct economic benefits if more was used for cladding.
An aim of the project is to improve regional competitiveness through new product development and the exploitation of natural resources.
As well as sharing existing knowledge, the participants will carry out linked research – looking particularly at alternatives to CCA wood preservatives.
Eventually it is hoped to set up a website detailing best practice in design and specification, create test sites for long-term monitoring of timber cladding and create cost reductions and energy efficiency gains for housing in remote rural areas.
