BRE IP17/11 PDF

This Information Paper provides a broad view of the benefits and limitations of cross-laminated timber (CLT) for those considering its use in construction projects.

CLT is an engineered timber product with good structural properties and low environmental impact (where sustainably sourced timber is used). It can provide dry, fast onsite construction, with good potential for airtightness and a robust wall and floor structure suitable for most finishes internally and externally. It requires only limited new site skills, and its low weight means that a high degree of offsite manufacture is possible. Access permitting, relatively large pre-manufactured panels can be transported to site for fast, factory-quality construction. Currently, CLT is manufactured abroad with an established supply into the UK market, although this brings higher environmental impact from typically increased transportation distances and some cost uncertainty with varying foreign exchange rates.

This is one in a series of five Information Papers and parallel case studies on low-impact building materials. The others cover hemp lime, straw bale, unfired clay masonry and natural fibre insulation.