An increasing number of architects and designers are betting on traditional materials, such as wooden architecture, in order to build innovative works. In the following paragraphs We will explain why it is used and what its characteristics are, in addition to other aspects that you should consider about it.

wooden architecture

One of the most impressive arts is wooden architecture, which has gained priority for years. Even statistical companies assure that, among the technological materials that dominate the market, wood is at the top, considering that it is used for all kinds of products—making them minimalist, modern, and natural—.

Keep in mind that at least 18% of people worldwide live in a wooden house. This is because it is affordable and sustainable; without mentioning that it provides a greater feeling of coziness and comfort than other materials, such as concrete or brick. For this reason, more people are choosing to buy real estate made of wood. It is a highly demanded market.

Some models of houses built with the wooden architecture are not too flashy; but others, like the constructions of Jackson Clements Burrows, receive looks from all over the world. His works are so popular that his business has gone international.

Pro vs. wood cons

Before looking for ideas on how you want your wooden house, it is important to know what its advantages and disadvantages are. Read on to learn more about it:

Advantages of using wood

One of the main benefits of using wood is that it is an organic compound. Being natural, it is recyclable and renewable, which is why generates less waste than many other construction raw materials.

We also highlight that it needs a slight energy consumption to process it, being eco friendly; Furthermore, it does not produce odors or vapors of chemical origin. Being one hundred percent renewable, only more trees need to be planted, so it is a material that will never run out.

Due to deforestation – which has affected many parts of Europe – governments have forced companies to plant new seeds after cutting down the trees. In this way, natural resources are not compromised. However, keep in mind that a single tree can take more than 500 years to grow. Others even exceed 1000. This depends on the type.

Wood is also considered a good insulating material against climatic changes. This is an advantage, since Reduce the money you must allocate to air conditioning or heatingTherefore, most architects tend to place them on windows, floors, and doors. Its acoustic absorption and thermal insulation properties allow you to feel comfortable at any time of the year.

Disadvantages of using wood

The negative aspect of wood is its variability. It is an environmentally dependent 100% material, so it shrinks or grows (in size ratios) according to the humidity level. Not to mention, it's vulnerable when you don't do the proper treatment.

Keep in mind that external attacks are capable of damaging the structure; as in the case of water, where the hardness and durability of wood is reduced in case you do not take preventive measures. In the same way it is fragile against fire, this is due to its fuel properties. The only solution to this problem is to install a fire alarm and smoke detector.

From an architectural perspective, wood varies in strength and hardness. Therefore it is important to know which one will be used and why. Remember that it is different to use oak beams than pine slats for cutting or in a structure. You must ensure that the technique, utility, and use is consistent with the corresponding material. This applies to everything, be it carpentry, decoration, and more.

What are the properties of wood?

Wood has many properties, among them we list:

• Its density: It refers to the resistance, considering that it is subjected to compression and bending processes.
• Its Hygroscopicity: It absorbs moisture well and is easily detached from it by capillarity.
• Its texture: It is about the colors, the types of sanding, the stems, and the physique it presents. This aspect focuses on customization and view.
• Its hardness: The resistance it presents when pierced with other elements, including metal and other machinery, is superior. However, it is necessary that the water content within the wood is low.
•  Its electrical and thermal conductivity: It serves as an insulator in the field of electricity. This quality is what makes it perfect for reducing heating costs. For this reason it is used both for windows and for doors and floors.

The best types of wood

Remember that, before carrying out a construction, you must consider the kind of wood that they will use. This must be of quality, easy to handle, and economical. That is why we list which are the best:

• Natural noble or hard: They come from trees such as chestnut, cherry, olive, ash, beech, walnut, oak, and ebony; hardwoods are the strongest and heaviest, characterized by being taken from slow-growing trees. They are the best, but also the most expensive.
• Natural soft: They are acquired from trees such as pine, considering that they grow faster than the rest. Its resistance is not too high, nor is its price, which is why you can get it on sale every year.
• Artificial: During the last years they have been gaining authority in the market. Most artificial woods are of low quality; however, when put together well, it can outperform natural softwoods.

At this point, you know everything you need to know about wooden architecture, where and why to use it, and which ones are best. Remember that it is a quite useful material —in addition to being aesthetic—, but you must carry out regular maintenance on it.