When thinking about building a house, we often picture large amounts of iron and concrete. But have we ever thought about a wooden house?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of building with wood?
Wood is a natural resource that we have plenty of in Slovenia. It is a renewable material, with low density and high strength. The color of wood and wood itself adds a sense of homeliness and calms us. The energy required to process wood is low, so, unlike other construction materials, using wood puts much less strain on the environment. Wood is also an excellent insulator.
Drawbacks and Misconceptions about Wood
Wood is sensitive to water; it absorbs and releases moisture. Due to this, it shrinks and swells. As a natural material, wood is biodegradable, so if not treated properly, it can be attacked by fungi and insects. In Europe, more than 300 different types of wood are used, and each type has its own specifics. The disadvantages of wood surface when it is exposed to varying humidity levels and where conditions are favorable for the development of fungi and insects.
Why Choose to Build with Wood?
As mentioned, wood is a natural material that breathes with nature. A wooden house allows for high-quality living, and its construction is environmentally friendly.
In Slovenia, the most commonly used woods for construction are beech and spruce. These two types make up about two-thirds of Slovenia’s wood supply. Beech wood is harder, has higher density, and is used for veneer and plywood because it can be easily bent. Beech wood is not durable, so without proper protection, it is not suitable for outdoor use.
Spruce wood is one of the most important types of wood for construction. It is used for roof trusses, windows, interior structures, furniture, floors, etc. Like beech, spruce wood is naturally not durable, so it needs to be properly treated and protected. Oak wood, which has higher density and strength, is used for long-lasting wood products like core oak.
The trend of building wooden houses is on the rise in Slovenia, precisely because of the harmony with nature and its benefits. A common misconception is that a wooden house cannot be modern. The Bauta houses are proof that this is not the case. In fact, a wooden house can be just as aesthetically beautiful and of high quality for living.
