It’s time to trust timber

Lee Parrott, Managing Director of GB Joinery, says installers should embrace and put their trust in timber projects instead of shying away from them.

After dedicating my entire working life to joinery, starting at the age of 19 and continuing a family legacy that spans more than five decades, I’ve noticed a concerning trend: many installers are reluctant to take on timber projects because they think they’re more hassle than they’re worth.

It’s a hesitation that typically stems from misconceptions about U-values, concerns over timber quality, and perceptions about price.

The reality is that modern timber solutions have evolved dramatically. Today’s high-performance timber windows can achieve U-values as low as 1.2, easily meeting contemporary energy efficiency demands while offering the beautiful traditional wood aesthetic that only genuine timber can provide.

Quality has also been transformed through innovative materials. Take sustainable, high-performance Accoya, for example; a modified timber I’ve been passionate about since promoting it in Australia several years ago. With its 50-year warranty and exceptional strength and durability, today’s timber products deliver longevity and performance that would surprise many installers who have previously dismissed it as an option.

Making the unfamiliar familiar

So why do installers continue to shy away? Often, it’s simply unfamiliarity with the product or concerns about installation. This is precisely where working with a genuine timber specialist becomes invaluable. Rather than turning down timber jobs, and potentially lucrative business opportunities, installers can partner with specialists who understand the product inside and out.

Having worked as a fitter, service engineer, surveyor, and salesperson, I’ve experienced every side of the timber window and door market and am able to pass on that knowledge and insight to our installer customers as a result.

The benefits of adding timber to your product range are substantial, with projects typically providing higher margins and potentially opening the door to referrals from consumers seeking premium solutions for heritage properties or distinctive homes where aesthetics matter as much as performance.

With lead times now significantly improved – we’re consistently delivering in just 4-6 weeks – and the right support available, there’s never been a better time for installers to trust timber as a business growth opportunity and take on more projects with confidence.

For more information, visit www.gb-joinery.co.uk.