The Benefits of Using Timber in Traditional Devon Home Designs
Devon County is a coastal area in the UK that is home to amazing beaches and coastal towns. Being a coastal area means that humidity and exposure to saltwater can often affect the integrity of building materials.
Many of the older Devon houses which are made of timber have withstood the test of time, despite wood being susceptible to rot from moisture. So what benefits does wood hold for traditional style Devon homes? Let’s find out.
Why is Timber a Popular Choice in Devon Homes?
Wood possesses a natural beauty that complements various building styles, especially Devon’s, with its rolling hills and lush landscapes.
Timber also adds a unique warmth and character to interiors, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Advantages of Timber in Devon Architecture
Cost-Effective
Timber is a considerably less expensive building material than steel or concrete in Devon. Its abundance in nature and easier processing methods make it a popular choice for the construction of various traditional homes in the county.
Durability
The humidity and moisture content in coastal regions is more than anywhere else. So how is wood able to withstand the elements?
The secret lies in resistant wood: teak, cedar, cypress and redwood are all examples of strong wood species sold by reliable timber merchants that can naturally resist the effects of moisture.
These woods also contain high oil content that repels pests, making them ideal for exposed structures.
Sustainability
Wood is renewable; this means that it will not run out, providing it is sourced in an ethical manner. It is also considered to be an environmentally friendly, cheaper building material.
When trees grow, they absorb carbon from the atmosphere; this timber is then used to build homes and will store carbon dioxide away for several years, helping to slow down climate change from gas emissions.
Energy Efficiency
The processes involved in making timber have a lower embodied energy compared to concrete or steel.
This means that it takes less energy to create timber, making it a cost-effective energy saver.
Wood has excellent properties as an insulator to regulate temperature, keeping Devon homes cool in summer and warm in winter.
This improved energy efficiency translates to lower heating and cooling bills.
Versatility
Timber blends well with various themes. It can be stained, painted, or left natural to suit the ambience or preferences of a traditional homeowner.
It can also be used for a number of design styles, some of which are:
- Log Cabin: This classic style utilizes whole logs for walls and often features a rustic aesthetic.
- Timber Frame: Characterized by exposed wooden beams and posts, creating a spacious and airy feel.
- Tudor: Incorporates timber framing, often with decorative half-timbering and steep roofs.
The Beauty of Timber in Devon Homes
Devon’s rich heritage and beautiful rustic sceneries are closely tied to the use of timber in construction. This quiet coastal region has embraced wooden building materials to create homes that are not only beautiful and comfortable but also sustainable and environmentally conscious.
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