Design for durability and future climates
To get the most from the Implementation Framework explore strategies and actions across each project phase to see how the Principles for Responsible Timber Construction can be applied.
Strategies
Strategy 2.5 Design for durability and future climates
Designing timber buildings for durability and climate resilience ensures they remain safe, adaptable, and comfortable in a changing environment. By anticipating the impacts of future climates – including temperature extremes, moisture, and increased weather events – design teams can specify durable timber systems, protective detailing, and robust maintenance strategies that extend the life of buildings and materials. Timber’s natural hygroscopic properties, combined with good ventilation, surface protection, and appropriate species selection, can deliver exceptional long-term performance when properly detailed. Integrating resilience and liveability considerations into the early design process also enhances occupant comfort and health while minimising life cycle maintenance costs and embodied emissions. This strategy reinforces whole-life value, ensuring timber buildings deliver safe, low-carbon, and adaptable performance over decades, aligned with emerging standards for climate-ready, sustainable construction.
Principles for Responsible Timber Construction included in this strategy
Stakeholders
Actions
Commission climate-risk and resilience studies at project inception (e.g. expected temperature and moisture extremes, flood risk, pest threats) and integrate findings into design briefs
Tools and Guidance
Principles included in this strategy
- Accounting for Whole Life Cycle
- Maximising the carbon storage potential of wood
- Promoting a timber building bioeconomy
Incorporate moisture control, protective detailing, and replaceable layers to safeguard durability
Tools and Guidance
Principles included in this strategy
- Accounting for Whole Life Cycle
- Maximising the carbon storage potential of wood
- Promoting a timber building bioeconomy
Moisture management must be planned to prevent water ingress during construction and operation
Tools and Guidance
Principles included in this strategy
- Accounting for Whole Life Cycle
- Maximising the carbon storage potential of wood
- Promoting a timber building bioeconomy
Provide up-to-date climate data and resilience standards for timber buildings
Tools and Guidance
Principles included in this strategy
- Accounting for Whole Life Cycle
- Maximising the carbon storage potential of wood
- Promoting a timber building bioeconomy
