Modern homes are often constructed using steel, concrete, and glass. Builders appreciate their strength and durability and use them whenever possible. Nevertheless, wood is a material that should not be ignored. Lumber is eco-friendly and visually appealing. Furthermore, it offers health benefits, making it a viable building material for countless projects.
Renewable Resources
Wood is a renewable resource. Concrete and steel are created using finite resources, but forests can be planted wherever there is room. Many countries today implement sustainable forest management practices to ensure forests thrive. Biodiversity is essential, and these practices minimize deforestation. People won’t feel bad getting lumber delivered because they know it is good for the environment. Trees also help clean the air by reducing greenhouse emissions. Steel and concrete produce significant carbon emissions, while wood reduces them.
Interior Environment
As previously mentioned, wood helps clean the air, but it does much more than this. Studies show wood in an indoor environment benefits the health of all within the space. It’s an essential part of biophilic design. Wood helps regulate temperature and humidity. The atmosphere is more comfortable, and the wood helps insulate the building. The owner pays less in heating and cooling costs thanks to increased energy efficiency, which also benefits the planet. People also appreciate the warmth and beauty of wood because it creates a welcoming atmosphere. When exposed to wooden interiors, people experience less stress. Their blood pressure decreases, and their overall health improves.
Durability
People assume wood can’t compete with concrete and steel in terms of strength. Advances in technology have allowed this material to increase in durability. It can be used in large-scale construction projects. Cross-laminated timber is made by layering boards perpendicularly, making it stronger and able to bear larger loads. Tall buildings constructed with this lumber are referred to as plyscrapers. Wood naturally resisted many chemicals and corrosive environments. Manufacturers may also treat it to make it more resistant to pests, fire, and decay.
Beauty
Many builders prefer to use lumber because they love its beauty. Lumber is appropriate for many architectural styles and may be left in its natural form or treated to blend in with other construction elements. This material can create curved or complex shapes and intricate detailing. Architects dream big, knowing that wood can bring their dreams to life. The warmth and beauty of wood make this material ideal for any project.
Energy Savings
Wood offers low thermal conductivity, minimizing the need for additional insulation. Thus, builders spend less time constructing structures without sacrificing quality. A building made chiefly of wood will use less energy to heat and cool, allowing the owner to save over the long term. Wood can also be manufactured off-site and constructed rapidly when it reaches its final destination. Labor costs and construction time decrease, making modular construction an option for countless projects.
Minimal Waste
Wood can be reused and recycled, making it an environmentally friendly choice for construction projects. It won’t end up in a landfill, which helps reduce the construction industry’s carbon footprint. The materials can be reused for other purposes when the building comes down. The same cannot be said for many steel and concrete buildings.
Wood is a strong and sustainable material that should be considered for any construction project. Thanks to industry advances, it can be used to build structures of any size while reducing the company’s carbon footprint. Every builder should consider wood when planning projects for a green and healthy future.