UK architects unprepared for rising timber demand

UK architects are predicting an increase in the use and specification of timber but admit they are not prepared for the shift in demand, a research report has found.

ICI Woodcare’s study, conducted among 250 architects, forecasts a 46% jump in timber use and specification over the next five years. This growth is attributed to market interest in “a natural product” (27%), increased awareness of environmental issues (24%) and the aesthetic value of timber (16%).

However, a quarter confessed they had poor knowledge of timber, paint, stains and varnishes, with no more than 3% describing themselves as “experts”, and 24% saying they lacked confidence when recommending wood.

John Hewitt, group brand manager at ICI Woodcare, said: “We are taking this issue very seriously. We are looking at running a series of events where architects can meet with industry experts to help increase their knowledge and confidence when working with timber and timber-related products.”

More than half the architects (56%) cite customer demand as a barrier to timber’s use and specification; 41% said they would use more wood if it was better quality; while the availability of cheaper alternatives (61%) and maintenance issues (17%) also affect timber.

Meanwhile, 68% claim the environmental argument favouring timber is not reflected in their use of wood, with the majority having doubts and “remaining cynical” about the credibility of the message.

Mark O’Brien, head of public affairs at The Timber Trade Federation, said: “Obviously, if the predicted increase in consumption is accurate then this is fantastic news for the industry.”

He said Forest Forever’s architect seminars and the wood. for good Timber Topics Continual Professional Development for architects programme were helping to address the knowledge gap.

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