Wood comes in a variety of colors, tones and textures. Color is dependent on the species of wood and where it was grown, whereas the grain pattern will indicate the state of the surrounding environment and weather conditions. Some species, while technically the same or similar, will differ greatly in aesthetic due to the trees location while planted and growing. For example, trees in dryer areas might have tighter grain patterns due to slower growth, while those in wetter areas may grow more quickly, affecting the wood’s texture and color.

As a natural material, wood exudes warmth and welcome. Studies[1] across the world have shown that natural building materials and décor can significantly improve people’s mental state and mood. This is why it’s such a popular material choice for the interior and exterior of homes.

[1] The Nature of Wood – Terrapin Bright Green

Wood’s ability to be repurposed makes it a popular choice for those seeking to build in an environmentally sustainable manner. Repurposing wood reduces waste and the need for new materials, aiding in environmental conservation. Furthermore, wood which has been ethically sourced from plantations and forests ensures that the wood removed is also replaced for the future.

Wood is an incredibly versatile building material. It is suitable for a variety uses, though some species of wood are better suited for certain projects than others. Some uses of wood include cladding, decking, furniture, pergolas, building structures, and fences.

Wood is not inherently fire-resistant in the way that materials like brick, concrete or steel are. However, it does possess certain characteristics that can make it perform differently in a fire compared to other materials.

When exposed to fire, the outer layers of wood will char. This charred layer acts as an insulating barrier, protecting the inner wood from further damage. The charring process can slow the rate at which the fire penetrates the wood, maintaining the structural integrity of the wood for a longer period compared to some other materials.

Generally, wood is not recognized for its flexibility, but rather for its attributes of rigidity and strength. Despite this, it possesses a remarkable capacity for being worked and machined into complex profiles and shapes. Techniques such as steam bending and lamination enable the transformation of wood into bent or curved forms. While tools and machinery can work with almost all wood species, certain types exhibit superior suitability for detailed profiling and bending. These species, often chosen for their unique balance of flexibility and strength, allow for more intricate and durable designs in woodworking projects.

Wood is a naturally durable material, with varying species possessing varying degrees of strength and hardiness. Wood is categorised into varies classes which speak to the wood’s long-term durability when exposed to decay, pests and other environmental factors. Depending on the class of wood, some species have the ability to last for 50 years or more.

As the cost of plywood, veneer panelling, and other various methods of cladding or structural materials become more common, wood is slowly becoming a more costly investment. As such, it is also becoming a status symbol. New high-end, designer homes are being clad in wood and include wooden flooring or feature walls and decks.