Contrary to many people’s expectations, timber used in construction performs well in fire. It will not flake, spall, melt, buckle or explode. Timber burns steadily at a predictable rate. In the charring process charcoal is formed on the surface of the timber, which serves to insulate and protect the core.

It is possible therefore to make precise calculations of the dimensions that structural timbers need to be, in order to meet the UK’s stringent fire and safety regulations. What you can measure, you can manage. This also explains statements from fire fighters who prefer to enter a burning building made out of timber, because they have learned to estimate how long they can safely remain in the building.

Although there may be other issues at play in other countries, fire tests by the BRE at Cardington have provided an authoritative verdict on timber frame construction in the UK.........

Mortgage lenders

"It satisfies all key concerns about saleability, marketability and asset value"

Andrew Heywood from the Council of Mortgage Lenders.

Insurers

The Association of British Insurers.

“Insurance companies generally draw no distinction between modern timber frame and brick and block construction in their premium rate assessment, providing the external roof covering is also of tiles, natural or mineral slates or concrete.”