More and more people are choosing to build wooden houses, as they offer an eco-friendly, healthy and aesthetically refined home. However, since this is a specific type of construction, many questions and concerns arise related to materials, technological processes and environmental impact.
In this article, we’ve collected some of the most common questions found on online forums and had them verified by our experts. Join us for a quick overview that clears up doubts and presents facts and interesting details about wooden construction.
❓ What about the vapor barrier in a wooden house?
How does the vapor barrier work in the construction of a vestibule? The wall will consist of wood, rock wool, a vapor barrier and plasterboard. My only concern is the use of polyethylene – why use it at all, when the point of wood is to “breathe”?
We found that most answers on forums were accurate. It’s true that wood breathes, but in reality, only a very small amount of moisture – around 1% – passes through the walls. In the list of materials for constructing the vestibule – wood, rock wool, vapor barrier, plasterboard – one important component is missing: a vapor-permeable membrane (not polyethylene), also known as a secondary weather barrier. This allows moisture to escape outward while preventing wind from entering.
❓ Can the mass use of wood harm forests?
Is it possible that the large-scale use of wood could damage forests? Are we already heading in that direction?
This question comes up frequently and is important to clarify. Slovenia is covered by forests by as much as 60%, so we are far from depleting natural resources. Additionally, legislation supports the sustainable use of wood. For example, the Slovenian government adopted a green public procurement regulation requiring that wood make up at least 30% of materials used in public buildings.
While the trend of wooden construction is growing, the use of wood in Slovenia is still relatively low compared to Scandinavian countries. Wooden construction is therefore an environmentally responsible choice and, when managed sustainably, can even contribute to better forest balance.
More in our article: Renewable Energy Sources: The Impact of Wood Use on Forest Conservation
❓ Wooden, masonry, or prefabricated house construction?
Many people face the dilemma of whether to choose wooden, masonry, or prefabricated construction. Those who opt for prefabricated homes are often faced with another question: should they choose panel or timber frame construction? Do you think the trend is moving toward wooden construction?
Large-scale prefabricated construction is just as stable as timber frame construction. In fact, wooden prefabricated houses are usually much more resistant to earthquakes compared to masonry buildings.
With traditional prefabricated construction, walls are assembled in the factory, which limits on-site quality control. Earthquake resistance is ensured through the use of different boards such as OSB, LSB and Fermacell, as well as roof structures reinforced with perforated tape.
In timber frame construction, only the basic wooden frame is delivered to the construction site, allowing for better control over the assembly. In this method, the frame itself provides the structural stability and earthquake resistance of the building.
The fact remains that the trend clearly shows growing interest in wooden construction, as it offers sustainability, fast execution and high energy efficiency.
Still curious about wooden construction?
At Bauta, we emphasize the importance of working closely with the client throughout the entire process. Through consistent communication and an open approach to all questions, we can ensure the successful realization of your project. Your questions, concerns, or uncertainties are always welcome.
If you have any additional questions about wooden construction that you haven’t found the answer to, feel free to contact us at [email protected]. We’ll be happy to clarify any doubts and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether living in a wooden house is the right choice for you.
