Solid timber frame construction is becoming an increasingly popular choice among investors seeking sustainable, energy-efficient and architecturally refined solutions. Despite its many advantages, numerous myths and misconceptions still persist, discouraging some from choosing a wooden house.
In this article, we debunk the 12 most common myths about wooden houses, especially those built with solid timber frames. Drawing on practical experience and expert knowledge, we’ll help you understand why many concerns are unjustified – and why a modern wooden house can be just as safe, durable and comfortable as a traditionally built one.
1. A wooden house is not earthquake-resistant
After earthquakes, prefabricated or lighter houses are often the first to be rebuilt – and for good reason. Compared to traditional masonry systems, solid wooden structures are lighter but also more flexible, which allows them to better absorb seismic loads.
Moreover, in earthquake-prone areas, buildings are typically constructed on several smaller foundation slabs, further increasing resistance. Timber frame structures help distribute forces across the entire frame, preventing the types of collapse that can occur in rigid masonry construction.
2. A wooden house decays or rots faster
It’s not true that wooden houses are short-lived. The key factors are build quality and moisture protection. If water accumulates, wood can indeed rot – but the same is true for masonry houses, where moisture can cause plaster to crumble or mold to form.
With proper waterproofing, ventilation and the use of high-quality wood, a wooden house can easily last for centuries. Medieval timber towns where buildings still serve their purpose today are living proof.
3. Problems with wood pests
Many people fear that wooden houses will be full of bugs and pests. But this concern is outdated – modern materials and wood treatment methods prevent infestations. What matters is that exposed wood is properly processed and protected.
Additionally, interior walls are often shielded with materials that are not attractive to insects or animals. When built correctly, wooden homes present no higher pest risk than any other construction type.
4. Wooden houses catch fire easily
Yes, wood burns – but that doesn’t mean wooden houses are less fire-safe. In fact, solid wood burns more slowly than people think – its surface chars, which slows down the fire’s progress into the structure.
In contrast, masonry structures with reinforced concrete can lose their load-bearing capacity faster at high temperatures, as the steel inside bends. Timber structures maintain their strength longer, giving more time for evacuation and emergency response.
5. Wooden houses are more expensive to maintain
Maintaining a wooden house is not necessarily more expensive – especially if you choose to leave the wood’s natural appearance and allow it to develop a patina. Costs mainly arise with exterior wood cladding if you want to preserve a “new wood” look over time.
Proper design that promotes water drainage and drying significantly reduces maintenance needs. Indoors, maintenance costs are comparable – or even lower – than those of masonry homes.
6. Wooden facades require constant painting
Painting wood is becoming less common. Many investors choose to oil the wood or let it weather naturally without any coating. Over time, this gives it a patina that enhances aesthetic appeal.
For a different look, many choose modern facade materials that imitate wood or combine different materials. Numerous technical solutions are available to suit every architectural style.
7. Exposed wood indoors – yes or no?
Solid timber frame construction offers great flexibility for interior design. If you want exposed structural elements, they can be fully revealed – or you can opt for a more discreet look with only certain parts visible.
Cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels are often used on the interior and can remain visible or be coated with stains. Wood adds warmth, character and enhances the wellbeing of occupants.
8. Wooden houses have poor insulation
Not true. Wooden houses – especially passive or low-energy ones – are among the most energy-efficient on the market. Wood has excellent thermal properties: it doesn’t radiate heat in winter and doesn’t overheat in summer.
While solid masonry homes do store more heat (thermal mass), in unheated spaces this can be a drawback. With consistent temperature control, timber construction offers optimal thermal stability year-round.
9. Cracking due to expansion and contraction
Minor cracks can appear in wooden houses, especially where different materials meet – such as steel or concrete – which expand and contract at different rates.
However, in pure timber structures, these problems are minimal. With careful planning of expansion joints and the use of compatible materials, such cracks can be nearly eliminated.
10. Wooden houses can’t be multi-story
This is an outdated belief. Modern timber construction, especially with CLT or glulam, allows safe and stable multi-story building. Around the world, multi-story hotels, schools and even high-rises are now built from wood.
Advanced technologies enable precise planning of load-bearing capacity, fire safety and sound insulation – making timber no less suitable than reinforced concrete or masonry for tall buildings.
11. Wooden houses lack sound insulation
Wooden houses can have excellent sound insulation – if designed properly. It’s important to understand the difference between airborne noise (like voices or music) and impact noise (like footsteps or moving furniture).
Solid timber walls, combined with insulation layers, floating floors and decoupled structures, can achieve high acoustic comfort. In practice, noise transmission in modern wooden houses is no worse than in masonry ones.
12. Wooden houses aren’t prestigious enough
The idea that wooden houses are low-class or just for vacation use is completely unfounded. In fact, many architects and investors today put wood at the center of premium, design-driven homes.
Wooden structures offer tremendous architectural freedom, warm and modern interiors and a high standard of living. Natural materials, sustainability and quality of life are becoming key prestige markers – and timber construction clearly stands out in this regard.
