This page introduces the range of timber products and structural systems used in construction. It provides a foundation for understanding the types of timber products and structural systems available, their applications in different building typologies, and key performance considerations.
WoodSolutions Design guides have been developed to provide an authoritative source of information for design and construction professionals, the timber industry and other interested readers.
This landmark report reveals how visible wood in Australian workplaces boosts wellbeing, reduces sick leave, and enhances productivity. Based on a national survey of 1,000 indoor workers, it’s the first large-scale Australian study to link biophilic design—including wood—to better mental health and performance at work.
The classification of timber based on its visual characteristics, such as knots, grain, colour, and surface blemishes, rather than its structural strength. Appearance grading is used when timber is exposed in a finished application and aesthetics are a key consideration—such as in interior linings, flooring, or furniture. Grading rules vary by species and product type and are set out in relevant Australian Standards, ensuring consistency and quality in appearance-based applications.
Forces or actions that are applied to a structure and must be considered in its design. In timber construction, action loads include dead loads (permanent/static, such as the weight of the structure itself), live loads (temporary/movable, like occupants or furniture), wind loads, snow loads, earthquake forces, and other environmental or accidental actions. Structural engineers assess these loads to ensure the safety, stability, and performance of timber buildings in accordance with the Australian Standards and the National Construction Code (NCC).
A measure of how well a building or material maintains comfortable indoor temperatures by resisting heat transfer. In timber construction, thermal performance refers to the insulating properties of timber and how it contributes to energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling demands. Key factors include thermal conductivity, building envelope design, insulation, glazing, and air tightness. Thermal performance is assessed using energy ratings and compliance with Section J of the National Construction Code (NCC).
Alternative compliance pathways that demonstrate a building meets the requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC) without strictly following the Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) provisions. Performance Solutions allow for flexibility and innovation in design, including the use of timber in complex or non-standard applications. They must be supported by evidence—such as expert judgment, modelling, or testing—to prove they achieve the relevant Performance Requirements of the NCC.
The ability of a building material or construction system to resist ignition, fire spread, and structural damage during a bushfire event. In timber construction, bushfire performance is assessed based on compliance with Australian Standard AS 3959: Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas, which assigns Bushfire Attack Levels (BALs). Timber products must meet specific requirements for flame resistance, ember protection, and radiant heat exposure to be used safely in designated BAL zones.
The visual and sensory qualities of a material or structure that contribute to its overall attractiveness and design harmony. In timber construction, aesthetic appeal refers to the natural beauty, warmth, grain patterns, colour, and texture of wood, which can enhance both interior and exterior environments. It plays a key role in architectural design, influencing material selection and user experience.
