The aesthetic appeal of timber buildings is, always was and always will be what attracts people to them, but, sadly, it seems that few people are aware of the myriad benefits of timber buildings. For instance, the thermal efficiency of buildings with timber framing is legendary, providing buildings that are not only comfortable, but very cost effective when it comes to heating them as they require a lot less energy to heat; far less than other methods of construction. In South Africa today, that's a huge plus !

It is widely accepted that timber buildings are carbon sinks. It's estimated that a typical timber home could contain between 20 and 30 cubic metres of timber, equal to the absorption of about 20 tonnes of carbon dioxide.

While there is no single solution to the problems of global warming, timber construction plays a significant role. Just a 10 % increase in the housing market in South Africa in these types of buildings could result in a saving of hundreds and hundreds of tonnes of CO2 !

Other benefits, are the speed of construction roughly a one third reduction in construction time can be achieved ; their stability and durability timber buildings exist the world over and have been built to withstand hurricanes and other climactic forces, and are treated against insect attack and bio-degradation ; the system is neat and clean meaning its highly eco-friendly. Timber is in fact the most environmentally-friendly commercial building material in the world.    

The damage caused to building sites by other forms of construction will be felt for decades to come, whereas with timber damage to the environment is dramatically reduced.

Wood makes buildings healthier, is a sustainable resource and does not drive deforestation. Indeed, our structural timber is harvested from sustainable managed forests and sawmills that are FSC certified. Wood in any form has natural beauty, warmth and charm. Timber frame has an innate natural advantage in sustainable construction.

The TFBA, which pioneered framing in South Africa, is the only construction organization in the country that offers "The Seal of Controlled Quality". We celebrated our 25th Annual General Meeting in March 2008, and are now a Section 21 Public Benefit Company with a national membership of over 110 members.

Contributed by

Timber Frame Builders Association
Telephone and fax +27 21 845 4435
email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .