Edinburgh Napier University

  Many prefer the versatility of timber frame for panelised, volumetric and hybrid 'built offsite' systems. Other suitable formats include timber post and beam, 'massive' construction using cross-laminated timber, and structural insulated panel systems. The common thread making all these systems more efficient - and therefore more sustainable - is moving the bulk of the construction processes into well managed, factory conditions and performing the minimum installation work on site.

Following a history of timber and off-site construction around the world, the author examines production concepts that improve the efficiency of timber construction. He explains key things to consider when designing buildings intended to be built off-site and reviews the many engineered timber products that facilitate a modern approach to timber construction. The book also shows how timber meets emerging design standards such as Passivhaus. Appendices contain summaries of the Code for Sustainable Homes and timber design properties.

Off-site and modern methods of timber construction addresses a current lack of knowledge on the use of timber in off-site construction. Illustrated with some 150 photographs and line drawings, it brings the important information together and explains how modern methods ensure timber meets 21st century expectations.