Embodied energy refers to the energy consumed in providing materials for building construction. It includes the extraction and processing of raw materials, along with manufacturing, transport and product delivery processes. The embodied energy of a building can be lowered by using locally available, natural materials that are both durable and recyclable, with a design that incorporates…
Choosing timber frame building shows that you care about the environment and the planet. Here are the many reasons why: Timber buildings are carbon sinks Trees absorb and store carbon dioxide while they grow. The carbon dioxide is stored in the sawn timber for the lifespan of the building. Timber buildings require much…
Choosing timber in design and construction can help tackle climate change in several ways. One of the most important is wood’s capacity for carbon storage. Growing trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, emit oxygen and store carbon. Carbon remains locked in the wood for the life of the piece of timber until it rots,…
Life cycle analysis (LCA) is a method of measuring the environmental impacts of building products over their whole life. The aim of a life cycle analysis is to identify, quantify and assess the impact of the energy and materials used and waste released to the environment throughout the life of a building product. There are…
The Institute for Timber Construction-SA (ITC-SA) frequently receives complaints regarding failing roof structures. Normally, the resolution of a complaint is fairly easy where an ITC-SA Fabricator, Erector, Inspector or Accredited Engineer employed to oversee the project is a current member of the Institute. However, in recent cases in KwaZulu-Natal, the ITC-SA found that fraudulent engineering certificates were issued over some residential timber roof…
