Open access peer-reviewed chapter
Abstract
Engineered wood products (EWP) have gained popularity and recognition in Malaysia’s construction industry. These products refer to a category of wood products that are manufactured by bonding or combining wood strands, veneers, or fibers with adhesives to create a stronger and more stable material compared to solid wood. In Malaysia, the use of EWP, such as plywood, laminated veneer lumber, glued laminated timber, and particleboard, has been growing steadily. These products offer several advantages over traditional solid wood, including improved strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to warping and splitting. EWP is also often used as a sustainable alternative to solid wood because it utilizes smaller, fast-growing trees and reduces waste. EWP find applications in various construction projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. They are commonly used for interior and exterior structural elements, such as beams, columns, trusses, and flooring systems. EWP, such as plywood and particleboard, are also used extensively for wall and roof sheathing, furniture manufacturing, and decorative applications. The Malaysian construction industry has recognized the benefits of EWP in terms of cost-effectiveness, design flexibility, and environmental sustainability. As a result, there has been increased adoption of these products in both large-scale projects and smaller construction ventures.
Keywords
- planted tropical wood species
- engineered wood products
- economic aspect
- designs of engineered wood houses
- components for house construction
1. Introduction
Engineered wood made from a variety of wood types, such as recycled woods, hardwoods, and softwoods. In addition to being utilized for furniture and cabinetry, it is frequently employed as a building material for walls, roofs, and floors. The strength and stability of engineered wood, which is less prone to warping, cracking, and shrinking than conventional solid wood, is one of its advantages. Additionally, because it utilizes fewer natural resources and can be made from recycled wood, it has a smaller environmental impact than solid wood [1, 2]. In comparison with conventional solid wood [3, 4] and other building materials like concrete [5], engineered wood products have a number of advantages.
Products made of engineered wood are designed to be more durable and sturdier than those of solid wood. Using adhesives, wood strands, veneers, or fibers are bonded or layered together throughout the manufacturing process to produce a material with consistent strength and dimensional stability. Engineered wood is less likely to twist, warp, or split, resulting in greater long-term performance [6, 7, 8].
Some of the key advantages of the engineered wood include that it can be produced in a range of dimensions, forms, and arrangements to satisfy particular design and building specifications. It makes architectural design more flexible and makes it possible to build intricate, cutting-edge structures. Engineered wood products, such as glulam (glue-laminated timber), allow architectural versatility by being built into vast spans and curved shapes [9].
The engineered wood products are often considered more environmentally friendly than solid wood as they make efficient use of timber resources by utilizing smaller, fast-growing trees and incorporating by-products and residues from the wood industry. Engineered wood also reduces waste since it can be manufactured in large panels or beams, minimizing the need for cutting down large trees. Furthermore, the manufacturing process can utilize adhesives with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, contributing to improved indoor air quality [10].
In addition, the engineered wood products go through meticulous manufacturing procedures to guarantee reliability and consistency. Engineered wood products, in contrast to natural solid wood, are designed to satisfy particular performance criteria and may be tested and certified in accordance with those standards. Natural solid wood can vary naturally in strength and features. It is possible to better plan the construction process and design structures thanks to the predictability of material qualities.
Products made of engineered wood are frequently more affordable than those made of solid wood. Smaller trees, which are typically more economical and accessible, can be used to make them. Large panels or beams can also be made from engineered wood, which eliminates the need for intricate joinery or assembly. Over time, engineered wood’s greater dimensional stability also results in less waste and cheaper maintenance expenses [11, 12].
Certain types of engineered wood products, such as fire-rated plywood or fire-resistant particleboard, can offer improved fire resistance compared to solid wood. These products are designed to meet specific fire safety regulations and can be used in applications where fire protection is a concern [13, 14].
It is important to note that the benefits of engineered wood products can vary depending on the specific product and its intended application. It is always recommended to consult industry professionals and adhere to relevant standards and guidelines when using engineered wood in construction projects [14].
2. Literature review
The development of engineered wood products in Malaysia dates back to the middle of the twentieth century, when the nation started looking into alternatives to solid wood for use in the building and furniture sectors. Here is a general history of engineered wood products in Malaysia, albeit the precise timeframe and milestones may differ [15, 16].
In Malaysia, plywood, one of the earliest types of engineered wood, became well-liked in the 1950s. Utilizing adhesive, thin veneer layers of wood are bonded together to create plywood. The local construction sector benefited greatly from its importation, which was initially done to accommodate the rising demand for building supplies [17].
In the 1960s and 1970s, particleboard emerged as another engineered wood product in Malaysia. Particleboard is produced by compressing wood particles or chips with resin under heat and pressure. It provided an alternative to solid wood in furniture manufacturing and interior applications.
Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) gained prominence in Malaysia in the 1990s. LVL is made by bonding veneer sheets together with adhesives to create strong and dimensionally stable structural members. LVL found applications in beams, columns, and other load-bearing elements in construction.
Early in the new millennium, glue-laminated timber, or glulam, gained popularity in Malaysia. In order to construct larger, stronger, and more visually beautiful structural elements, glulam involves bonding layers of solid wood together. Curved beams and arches were among the architectural and structural uses for glulam.
The engineered wood product known as cross-laminated timber, or CLT, is relatively new and has attracted interest on a global scale. CLT panels, which are formed by stacking and gluing many layers of wood at right angles, have been utilized in construction projects all over the world because of their strength and sustainability, albeit the specific adoption of CLT in Malaysia may differ.
The adoption of engineered wood products over the years in Malaysia has been driven by factors such as the availability of raw materials, advancements in manufacturing technologies, and the desire for sustainable and cost-effective construction solutions. Malaysian manufacturers have invested in production facilities and research to enhance the quality and range of engineered wood products available in the local market. It is important to note that the specific milestones and advancements in engineered wood products in Malaysia beyond my knowledge cut-off in September 2021 may require more up-to-date sources or industry reports to provide the most accurate and recent information.
3. The economic of engineered wood for construction
Engineered wood as shown in Figure 1, also known as composite wood, is a type of wood product made by joining wood fibers, strands, or veneers together with adhesives, resins, or other materials. It is used in many different applications, such as construction, furniture, and flooring. Engineered wood has grown in popularity as a housing building material in the recent years. This is due to a variety of factors, including its strength and durability, low cost compared to traditional wood, and environmental friendliness. [3, 18, 19].
Figure 1.
Some of the engineered wood components used in Malaysia.
One of the main advantages of engineered wood for housing is its strength and durability. Because it is manufactured using a combination of wood fibers and adhesives, engineered wood is less susceptible to warping, cracking, and splitting than traditional wood. It is also less likely to be affected by moisture, insects, and other environmental factors that can damage wood [20].
Another advantage of engineered wood is its cost-effectiveness. While traditional wood can be expensive, especially if it is of high quality or sourced from remote locations, engineered wood can be manufactured using a wide range of materials and techniques (Figures 1 and 2), making it more affordable and accessible to builders and homeowners.
Figure 2.
Engineered wood components for large and medium construction works.
Moreover, engineered wood is also eco-friendly because it is made from wood fibers and other materials that are often derived from sustainable sources, and it is a renewable resource that can help to reduce the environmental impact of housing construction. Additionally, it is proved by manufacturing using fewer raw materials and less energy than traditional wood, and it is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option overall [19].
The economic benefits of using engineered wood for housing are significant. From its strength and durability to its cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness, it offers a range of advantages that make it an ideal building material for modern homes. As such, it is likely to continue to grow in popularity and become an increasingly important part of the housing industry in the years to come [21].
4. The designs of engineered wood for houses
The design of engineered wooden houses is similar to that of traditional wooden houses, but there are some key differences due to the unique properties of engineered wood [3, 18, 19]. The engineered wood can be fabricated to the various available sizes and shapes. Therefore, it was easier to create customized designs and structures. So, that allows for greater flexibility and creativity in the design process, as well as the ability to optimize the use of materials and space, especially combined with bracket joining components (Figure 3) [3].
Figure 3.
Metal braces of various sizes and uses to join different components in house construction.
In another hand, engineered wood is stronger and more durable compared to traditional wood. Apart from that, it can be used to create larger and more complex structures. This means that designers can incorporate features such as curved walls, cantilevered roofs, and expansive windows that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional wood. An additional benefit of using engineered wood in the design of wooden houses is that it allows for more efficient construction because engineered wood is manufactured to precise specifications, it can be pre-cut and pre-drilled off-site, reducing the time and labor required for on-site assembly among of joining types as represented in Figures 4–7. Moreover, engineered wood is also lighter and more consistent in quality than traditional wood, and it is easier to handle and transport, further reducing construction time and costs by applying the connecting joint between floor and wall as highlighted in Figures 8 and 9. Finally, the use of engineered wood in the design of wooden houses has environmental benefits. Because engineered wood is made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials and requires less energy to manufacture than traditional wood, it is a more environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, because engineered wood is more durable than traditional wood, it can reduce the need for frequent replacements and repairs, further reducing environmental impact [19].
Figure 4.
T-plate joint are commonly used to join the wood beams and poles.
Figure 5.
Universal end joint plate.
Figure 6.
L-plate joint.
Figure 7.
Plate for four joint.
Figure 8.
Plate to join the floor and the wall.
Figure 9.
Another type of plate to join the floor and the wall.
The design of engineered wooden houses offers a range of benefits over traditional wooden houses, including greater flexibility, increased strength and durability, more efficient construction, and environmental sustainability. As such, it is an ideal choice for modern homes and is likely to continue to grow in popularity in the years to come.
5. House component construction
Laminated or cross-laminated timber houses, also known as wooden houses in the tropic, typically consist of several components that work together to create a strong and durable structure [22, 23, 24].
Some of the main components for house construction include:
The foundation of a timber house is typically made of concrete or masonry, and it provides a solid base for the rest of the structure [25].
Wall framing: The walls of a timber house are typically made of wooden studs that are spaced at regular intervals and connected with plates and other framing members.
The roof of a timber house is typically made of wooden rafters that are connected to the walls and support the roof covering.
Sheathing is a layer of wood or other material that is attached to the exterior of the wall and roof framing to provide additional strength and rigidity.
Siding: Siding is the outermost layer of the wall that provides protection against the elements and adds esthetic appeal. Common siding materials include wood, vinyl, and fiber cement.
The roof covering protects the house from the weather and includes materials such as shingles, metal, or tile.
Windows and doors: These are openings in the walls that provide access and light. Wooden houses typically use wooden windows and doors to match the overall esthetic.
Insulation is used to improve the energy efficiency of the house and keep it comfortable year-round. Common insulation materials include fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam.
The interior finishes that include the materials such as drywall, trim, and flooring that are used to finish the inside of the house and create a comfortable living space.
Wall framing is an essential component of a wood house. It involves creating a structure that will support the weight of the roof and the other elements of the house [26, 27, 28].
All of these components are joint together in creating a strong and stable. Metallic braces shown in Figures 10 and 11 are quite commonly used.
Figure 10.
Another design of the universal end joint braces.
Figure 11.
A universal corner braces.
Some of the steps involved in wall framing for a wood house are as follows:
The first step is to create a plan for the wall framing. This will involve determining the size and spacing of the studs, as well as the placement of windows and doors.
Once the plan is in place, the wall can be laid out on the building site. This will involve measuring and marking the locations of the studs and other framing members.
Next, the wood for the wall framing can be cut to size. This will typically involve using a saw to cut the studs, plates, and other framing members to the desired length.
With the lumber cut to size, the wall can be assembled. This will involve nailing or screwing the studs and other framing members together according to the plan.
Once the wall is assembled, it can be raised into place. This will typically require the help of several people to lift the wall and position it correctly.
Once the wall is in place, it will need to be secured to the foundation and the adjacent walls. This will involve using nails, screws, or bolts to attach the wall to the other elements of the house. Figures 12–14 show the metallic braces used in joining laminated beams with the timber poles.
Figure 12.
The T-metallic braces used between the laminated timber beam and the pole.
Figure 13.
Metallic brackets are used to strengthened the structure between the house beams and poles.
Figure 14.
The metallic braces or brackets are used to strengthen the roof structure.
Once the wall is secured, a layer of sheathing can be added to provide additional strength and rigidity. This may involve using plywood, OSB, or another material to cover the exterior of the wall framing.
Finally, windows and doors can be installed in the wall framing. This will involve cutting openings in the sheathing and framing to accommodate the windows and doors, and then installing them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Roof framing is another critical component of a timber house that supports the roof’s weight and provides structural stability [29, 30, 31].
The steps are involved in roof framing:
Before starting the roof framing process, you need to design the roof, which will involve choosing the roof style, calculating the pitch or slope, and determining the load-bearing capacity.
The ridge beam is the horizontal beam that runs along the roof’s peak, and it is the roof’s highest point. The ridge beam is supported by the walls and should be the first component of the roof framing installed.
The rafters are the sloping beams that connect the ridge beam to the wall plates. They need to be installed at regular intervals, and their size and spacing will depend on the roof design and load-bearing capacity.
Collar ties or ridge boards are horizontal members installed between opposing rafters to provide additional structural stability.
Purlins are horizontal beams that are installed perpendicular to the rafters and support the roof covering. They may be necessary for certain roof types or heavy roofing materials like slate or tile.
Roof sheathing is a layer of material installed over the rafters and purlins, providing a flat surface for the roof covering to be installed. Plywood, OSB, or other materials can be used for sheathing.
The final step in roof framing is to install the roof covering. The covering can be made of a variety of materials, including shingles, metal, tile, or slate.
Roof framing requires careful planning, accurate measurements, and knowledge of structural engineering. It is essential to follow building codes and regulations to ensure that the roof framing is safe and meets all standards.
Sheathing is an important component of a timber house that is installed on the exterior walls and roof framing. Its primary purpose is to provide a strong, flat surface for the installation of exterior finishes and to add structural rigidity to the building [32].
Some common sheathing materials used in wood house construction include the following:
Plywood is a popular choice for sheathing because it is strong, durable, and resistant to moisture. It is typically made of thin layers of wood veneer that are glued together with the grain direction alternating between layers.
Oriented strand board (OSB) is a type of engineered wood product that is made from wood strands that are bonded together with resin and wax. It is less expensive than plywood and provides good structural strength [33].
Fiberboard is a type of wood-based panel that is made from wood fibers that are bonded together with a resin binder. It is lightweight and easy to cut, and provides good insulation value.
Gypsum board, also known as drywall, is a type of sheathing that is made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two layers of paper. It is commonly used as an interior sheathing material but can also be used on the exterior in certain applications.
Insulating sheathing is a type of sheathing that provides both structural support and insulation value. It is typically made of foam plastic insulation with a rigid facing material like plywood or OSB.
When selecting a sheathing material for a wood house, it is essential to consider the climate, the intended use, and the local building codes and regulations. Proper installation of sheathing is also critical to ensure that it functions correctly and provides adequate structural support.
Siding is an important component of a wood house as it provides protection from the elements, enhances curb appeal, and adds to the house’s overall esthetic [34, 35, 36].
Some common types of siding for a wood house are as follows:
Wood siding is a traditional and popular choice for a wood house. It is available in a variety of species, including cedar, pine, and redwood. Wood siding can be painted or stained, and it is easy to replace individual boards if necessary.
Vinyl siding is a low-maintenance and affordable option for a wood house. It is available in a variety of colors and styles, including those that mimic the look of wood siding. Vinyl siding can be easily cleaned with soap and water and does not require painting.
Fiber cement siding is a durable and low-maintenance option for a wood house. It is made of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, and it is available in a variety of colors and styles, including those that mimic the look of wood siding.
Brick or stone veneer: Brick or stone veneer can add a timeless and classic look to a wood house. It is available in a variety of styles and colors, and it is durable and of low maintenance.
Stucco is a popular choice for a wood house with a southwestern or Mediterranean style. It is made of a mixture of cement, sand, and lime, and it can be painted in a variety of colors.
When selecting a siding material for a wood house, it is essential to consider the climate, the intended use, and the local building codes and regulations. Proper installation of siding is also critical to ensure that it functions correctly and provides adequate protection from the elements.
Roof covering is the material that is installed over the roof framing to provide protection from the elements [37, 38].
Some common types of roof coverings for a wooden house are as follows:
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof covering for a wooden house. They are affordable, easy to install, and available in a wide range of colors and styles. They typically last 15–30 years depending on the quality. Metal roofing is a durable and long-lasting option for a wooden house. It is available in a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and copper, and it can last up to 50 years or more. Metal roofing is resistant to fire, insects, and rot, and it is energy-efficient.
Wood shingles or shakes are a traditional and classic choice for a wooden house. They are made from cedar or redwood, and they can last up to 30 years or more. They require regular maintenance, including cleaning, sealing, and occasional replacement of damaged or worn shingles.
Clay or concrete tiles are a popular choice for a wooden house with a Spanish-style architecture. They are durable and long lasting, with a lifespan of up to 50 years or more. They are available in a variety of colors and styles.
Slate is a high-end and long-lasting option for a wooden house. It is made from natural stone, and it can last up to 100 years or more. It is available in a variety of colors and styles, and it is highly resistant to fire and insects.
When selecting a roof covering for a wooden house, it is essential to consider the climate, the intended use, and the local building codes and regulations. Proper installation of the roof covering is also critical to ensure that it functions correctly and provides adequate protection from the elements.
Windows and doors are essential components of a wooden house. They provide natural light, ventilation, and access to the outdoors.
Some common types of windows and doors for a wooden house are as follows [39, 40, 41, 42]:
Single-hung windows are a classic and traditional choice for a wooden house. They consist of a fixed upper sash and a lower sash that slides up and down to allow ventilation.
Double-hung windows are similar to single-hung windows but with two movable sashes that slide up and down. They are a more modern and convenient option for a wooden house.
Casement windows are hinged at the side and swing outward like a door. They provide excellent ventilation and are a good choice for areas with a lot of wind.
Sliding windows consist of two or more sashes that slide horizontally past each other. They are a popular choice for modern and contemporary wooden houses.
French doors are a classic and elegant choice for the entrance to a wooden house or a patio. They consist of two doors that open outward from the center and provide a wide opening for easy access.
Sliding doors consist of two or more panels that slide horizontally past each other. They are a popular choice for a wooden house with a modern and minimalist style.
When selecting windows and doors for a wooden house, it is essential to consider the style, energy efficiency, and local building codes and regulations. Proper installation of windows and doors is also critical to ensure that they function correctly and provide adequate insulation and security.
Insulation is a critical component of a wooden house as it helps to reduce energy costs, improve indoor comfort, and protect against moisture and air infiltration.
Some common types of insulation for a wooden house are as follows:
Fiberglass insulation is a popular and affordable option for a wooden house. It is made of glass fibers and is available in batts or blown-in form. Fiberglass insulation has a high R-value (a measure of its resistance to heat flow) and can be used in walls, ceilings, and floors.
Cellulose insulation is made of recycled paper and is available in blown-in form. It has a high R-value and is a good choice for a wooden house with high ceilings or irregularly shaped spaces.
Spray foam insulation is a high-performance and energy-efficient option for a wooden house. It is available in two types: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell foam is less dense and is used for interior walls and ceilings, while closed-cell foam is denser and is used for exterior walls and roofs.
Mineral wool insulation is made of rock or slag fibers and is available in batts or blown-in form. It has a high R-value and is a good choice for a wooden house in areas with high winds or extreme temperatures.
Rigid foam insulation is a board-like material that is available in a variety of types, including polystyrene, polyurethane, and polyisocyanurate. It has a high R-value and is a good choice for a wooden house with a basement or crawl space.
When selecting insulation for a wooden house, it is essential to consider the climate, the local building codes and regulations, and the type of construction. Proper installation of insulation is also critical to ensure that it functions correctly and provides adequate protection against moisture and air infiltration.
Interior finishes for a wooden house play an essential role in creating a comfortable and inviting living space.
Some common types of interior finishes for a wooden house are as follows [43, 44]:
Drywall is a popular and affordable option for the walls and ceilings of a wooden house. It is made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two layers of paper and is available in different sizes and thicknesses.
Wood paneling is a classic and traditional option for the walls and ceilings of a wooden house. It can be made of various types of wood, including pine, cedar, and oak, and is available in different styles, such as tongue-and-groove or shiplap.
Paint is a versatile and affordable option for the walls and ceilings of a wooden house. It is available in a wide range of colors and finishes and can be used to create different moods and styles.
Stucco is a durable and low-maintenance option for the interior walls of a wooden house. It is made of cement, sand, and lime and is applied in several layers to create a smooth or textured finish.
Tile is a popular and stylish option for the floors, walls, and backsplashes of a wooden house. It is available in different materials, such as ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone, and can be used to create different patterns and designs.
Carpet is a comfortable and cozy option for the floors of a wooden house. It is available in different colors and textures and can be used to add warmth and softness to a room.
When selecting interior finishes for a wooden house, it is essential to consider the style, durability, and maintenance requirements. Proper installation of interior finishes is also critical to ensure that they function correctly and provide a comfortable and inviting living space.
6. Engineered wood for tropical houses
There is a growing body of research on the use of engineered wood in housing construction, including wooden engineered houses [4, 20, 45].
Here are some key data points:
The cost of building a wooden engineered house can vary widely depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the design, the type of engineered wood used, and the cost of labor in the area. However, in general, wooden engineered houses are often less expensive to build than traditional wooden houses because they require less raw material and can be manufactured more efficiently.
Wooden engineered houses are often more durable than traditional wooden houses because engineered wood is less susceptible to warping, cracking, and splitting. Additionally, engineered wood is often treated with preservatives or other materials that can help to prevent rot, decay, and insect damage.
Wooden engineered houses can be designed to be highly energy efficient by incorporating features such as insulation, air sealing, and efficient heating and cooling systems. This can help to reduce energy consumption and lower heating and cooling costs over time.
The use of engineered wood in housing construction can have significant sustainability benefits because it is often made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials and requires less energy to manufacture than traditional wood. Additionally, because engineered wood is more durable than traditional wood, it can reduce the need for frequent replacements and repairs, further reducing the environmental impact.
Wood engineered houses are generally considered to be safe and structurally sound, provided they are designed and built to code. However, as with any type of building material, it is important to ensure that the construction is carried out by qualified professionals and that the house is maintained properly over time. Figures 15–21 show some of the ready timber structures made up with either the laminated or cross-laminated wood for house construction.
Figure 15.
The frame and floor structure made from the glue-laminated.
Figure 16.
The beams and poles of a house made from
Figure 17.
The authors standing in front of a glue-laminated bridge made from mixed tropical timber species.
Figure 18.
The close-up view of the joinery between the bridge and the foundation using metal.
Figure 19.
A cross-laminated structure of a cross-laminated house of size 38 sq. m.
Figure 20.
The front view of the cross-laminated model house.
The data on wooden engineered houses suggest that they offer a range of benefits over traditional wooden houses, including lower cost, greater durability, improved energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and safety. As such, they are an ideal choice for modern homes and are likely to continue to grow in popularity in the years to come.
7. Recommendations
If you are considering building an engineered wooden house, then you need to keep in mind some of these recommendations:
Building an engineered wooden house requires specialized knowledge and expertise. Look for a builder who has experience with engineered wood construction and a track record of successful projects. There are many different types of engineered wood available, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. Consult with your builder to determine which type of engineered wood is best suited to your needs and budget.
Engineered wooden houses can be designed to be highly energy efficient, which can help to reduce your heating and cooling costs over time. Consider incorporating features such as insulation, air sealing, and efficient heating and cooling systems into your design. While engineered wood is generally more durable than traditional wood, it still requires regular maintenance to ensure that it stays in good condition over time. Make sure to plan for regular inspections and maintenance as part of your overall building plan. As with any type of building material, it is important to ensure that your engineered wooden house is designed and built to code to ensure safety and structural integrity. Work with your builder to ensure that all safety requirements are met.
Building an engineered wooden house can be a great choice for those looking for a durable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly housing option. With careful planning and attention to detail, an engineered wooden house can provide you with a beautiful and sustainable home for many years to come. Engineered wood structure with a good design and process properly can last long (Figure 21).
Figure 21.
A timber glue-laminated gallery structure in Johore Bahru, Malaysia.
8. Conclusions
The benefits of using the tropical engineered wood products include strength and durability, sustainability, design flexibility, cost-effectiveness, consistent performance, and quality. These benefits make the engineered wood products a valuable material for various applications in construction and other industries. In order word, the economic benefits of using engineered wood for housing are significant. From its strength and durability to its cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness, it offers a range of advantages that make it an ideal building material for modern homes. Therefore, it is likely to continue to grow in popularity and become an increasingly important part of the housing industry in the coming years. Furthermore, engineered wood house designs offer many benefits over traditional wooden house, including greater flexibility, increased strength and durability, more efficient construction, and environmental sustainability. It offers an ideal choice for modern house and is likely to continue to grow in popularity in the years to come. In another part, roof framing calls for meticulous design, precise measurements, and structural engineering expertise. To guarantee that the roof frame is secure and complies with all requirements, it is crucial to follow construction laws and regulation.
Nevertheless, when choosing insulation for a wooden house, it is important to consider the climate, local building codes and regulations, and the type of construction. Proper insulation installation is also important to ensure it functions properly and provides adequate protection against moisture and air infiltration. In terms of choosing interior finishes for a wooden house, it is important to consider style, durability, and maintenance requirements. The correct installation of interior finishes is also important to ensure that they function properly and provide a comfortable and attractive living space. Overall, the data on engineered wood houses show that they offer a range of benefits over traditional wooden houses, including lower costs, better durability, improved energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and safety. It is therefore an ideal choice for modern homes and is likely to continue to grow in popularity in the years to come. Building an engineered wooden house can be the best option for those looking for a durable, energy efficient and environmentally friendly housing option. With careful planning and attention to detail, an engineered wood house can provide you with a beautiful and sustainable home for years to come.
Acknowledgments
We the authors would like to express our appreciation for the financial support provided by the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) through its UTS Flagship Research Grants 2022.
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