Looking to self-build and pondering your construction system? Then read self-build expert Mark Brinkley’s take on four alternative methods that are worth adding to your research

The world of housebuilding tends to work along well-established lines. In England and Wales, masonry construction, otherwise known as brick and block, predominates. In Scotland and much of Ireland, timber framing is to the fore. Self-builders use both methods and, in addition, they have also adopted three others: structural insulated panels (SIPs), which is a specialised form of timber frame; modern-day oak frame, which is a hybrid system (the structural frame is wrapped in an encapsulation system); and insulating concrete formwork (ICF), which involves pouring ready-mixed concrete into polystyrene moulds. But there is no requirement to stick to triedand-tested techniques. Here we take a look at some of the alternatives.

Cross laminated timber

Cross laminated timber (CLT) is a relatively new development in the field of timber building. It grew out of our ability to glue thin strips of timber together to make strong beams, known as gluelaminated or glulam beams, and uses the same method to engineer whole-wall panels that are both strong and beautiful.

CLT is formed from timber strips laid on top of each other at 90° angles. Panels are built up into different thicknesses, depending on structural requirements, and can be up to 20 metres in length. These panels can be used to create an entire superstructure to very exacting tolerances. CLT is available in different grades at different price points. The top grade, known as ‘visual grade’, is designed to be used as a wall finish in its own right, which is one of the key selling points of CLT.

Building with CLT is still some way from mainstream in the UK. The technique first appeared in Austria in the 1990s and, to date, all CLT panels have had to be imported from there or neighbouring Germany. As such its use is still rather limited. However, there is a small number of architects who specialise in CLT; Meredith Bowles, of Mole Architects, is a big fan. “As an over-simplification, people love exposed timber. Too much and people think it’s like a sauna, but leaving parts of the overall structure exposed as a solid wall, floor or roof adds warmth and interest. CLT is brilliant at this. How dull a plasterboard ceiling looks in comparison! It’s a modern version of exposed beams,” he says.