Embracing the rising popularity of timber

The resurgence of timber windows and doors is providing a wide range of opportunities for installers and re-sellers. Joe Trueman, shareholder at Glyngary Joinery, explains the advantages that quality hand-crafted timber products offer.

In recent years, we’ve seen timber windows and doors make a significant comeback in the UK’s construction and home improvement sector. While PVC-U and aluminium have long been the dominant materials due to their affordability and low maintenance, timber is seeing a resurgence for several reasons.

From sustainability to aesthetic appeal and product longevity, timber is proving to be the superior choice, and with homeowners driving demand, window installers should embrace this shift to capitalise on the many advantages timber offers over alternative materials.

With the premium market growing significantly in recent years, savvy window installers who install premium products, like our timber windows and doors, can sidestep the race to the bottom on price for a moment, giving them both enhanced margins and a competitive advantage over their neighbouring generic PVC-U installers.

Crafted for longevity

As the popularity of timber rises, installers and re-sellers have a growing opportunity to offer highly sought-after products. Timber windows, with their longevity and high-end finish, appeal to homeowners looking for both sustainability and craftsmanship.

By including timber in their offerings, installers and re-sellers can attract a broader client base, from those renovating heritage properties to modern homeowners looking for eco-friendly solutions that aren’t mass produced in factories.

With timber frames lasting up to and beyond 70 years – far exceeding the lifespan of PVC-U (15-25 years) and aluminium (up to 30 years) – installers can emphasise long-term value. In fact, high-quality timber frames, especially when coated with durable long-life paints, can last over a century.

Higher revenue potential

Timber windows and doors typically come at a higher initial cost than PVC-U or aluminium. However, modern homeowners are much more savvy these days. They recognise long-term value and are prepared to pay for it, which translates into higher revenue for installers.

Also, because timber windows can be restored or refinished, they offer more opportunities for refurbishment projects in the future. If they want a fresh new look for their property as children grow up, or interior design fashions change, they don’t need expensive replacements, they can simply paint their existing timber windows, meaning they look brand new again.

Sustainability and responsibility

With the growing focus on sustainability, timber windows offer a much greener alternative than other materials. Timber is renewable, biodegradable, and has a lower carbon footprint. We’re all having to take responsibility for the future of the planet in how we conduct our everyday lives and sustainability isn’t just a buzz word – it’s a vital necessity in everything we do, and it now drives consumer behaviour.

By promoting timber’s sustainability benefits, installers can position themselves as environmentally responsible contractors, appealing to clients who prioritise eco-friendly construction. By sourcing from FSC certified sustainable forests and promoting the natural insulation properties of timber, making it a highly energy-efficient choice for excellent thermal performance, installers can further enhance their eco-friendly credentials.

To maximise this even further, all of the products we craft at Glyngary are made using Accoya as standard. Accoya wood undergoes the acetylation process to enhance durability and stability, significantly extending its lifespan and acting as a long-term carbon sink, contributing to lower lifecycle carbon emissions. Its longevity reduces the need for early replacement, supporting the circular economy and conserving forest resources.

Accoya is not just an environmentally friendly choice – it’s a groundbreaking one. Accredited by the FSC, it’s the only construction material worldwide to earn Cradle to Cradle (C2C) Platinum certification® for Material Health.

The genuine timber look

A significant reason for the rising demand for timber windows and doors is their unmatched aesthetic appeal. While there are a lot of ‘timber-look’ and ‘timber replica’ products on the market, you just can’t beat the real thing.

Many clients appreciate the authentic look of timber, especially when renovating period properties or working in conservation areas. Timber windows can be customised to fit any style.

This versatility means they can cater to a wide range of projects, from heritage restorations to contemporary new builds. Timber windows can also be used to meet stringent planning regulations for listed buildings, giving installers an edge in niche markets that require more specialised products.

Tap into the timber market

The rising popularity of timber presents a unique opportunity for installers and re-sellers to expand their offerings and tap into a market that values sustainability, aesthetics, and long-term durability. With timber’s growing appeal, both homeowners and installers stand to benefit from its many advantages.

www.glyngary.co.uk