Wooden beams - KVH (C24)

The designation “C24” for solid wood refers to the strength and quality of the wood. It is a grading system that ensures the timber meets specific performance standards. In European and Bulgarian classification system, C24 is considered a higher grade, indicating that timber beams of this type have superior strength and stiffness properties compared to lower grade options.

When properly maintained, structural wood exhibits excellent durability. Wood has a natural resistance to external factors such as moisture, temperature changes and even fire. Furthermore, with proper treatment and protection, timber can withstand pest infestations and rot, ensuring its durability and structural integrity over time. This durability makes it a reliable choice for long-lasting structures.

Structural wood building material is also versatile in terms of design and construction. It can be easily shaped, cut and joined, allowing complex and customised designs. This type of wood allows architects and constructors to create unique and aesthetically appealing structures ranging from traditional to contemporary styles. It can also be combined with other materials such as glass or steel to create innovative and impressive architectural elements.

One of the most significant advantages of the structural wood we offer is its environmental friendliness. Wood is a renewable resource, as trees can be responsibly harvested and replanted. Sustainable forestry practices ensure the protection of forests and the biodiversity they support. In addition, the production of structural wood requires less energy than other building materials, resulting in lower carbon emissions. The choice of structural wood contributes to a a more environmentally friendly construction industry.

Last but not least, KVH structural wood offers excellent thermal insulation properties. Wood is a natural insulator, providing effective humidity and temperature regulation, and reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling. This characteristic contributes to energy efficiency of buildings and improved occupant comfort.

Structural wood offers a faster and more efficient construction process than traditional materials. The timber components can be pre-manufactured/prepared off-site, allowing for precision manufacturing, reduced construction time and minimised waste. The ability to season the material in a controlled environment, relative constant temperature and humidity during production are a big plus for the later performance of the structural timber.

A popular choice for the production of structural timber (beams, timbers, boards and battens) are trees such asDouglas Fir (Pseudotsuga), Spruce (Picea), Larch (Larix), Birch (Betula), European Oak (Quercus robur), Southern Yellow Pine (Pinus ponderosa), Cedar (Cedrus)

As trees grow, they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and store it in their trunks, branches and leaves. When these trees are sustainably harvested and transformed into wooden beams and building materials, they store a significant portion of their carbon content. As a result, the wooden structures act effectively as a CO2 reservoir.

Whether for residential, commercial or industrial projects, KVH structural timber construction has gained considerable popularity around the world, with many impressive projects demonstrating the potential of this building material. Here are some notable examples:

1. Mjøstårnet: Located in Brömundal, Norway. Mjøstårnet is the tallest wooden building in the world. Standing 85.4 metres tall, this 18-storey mixed-use building features a combination of glulam columns and beams, along with CLT floor and wall panels. Mjøstårnet demonstrates Norway’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly building practices.
2. HoHo Wien: Located in Vienna, Austria, HoHo Wien is currently the tallest wooden skyscraper in Europe. At 84 metres high, this 24-storey building uses a hybrid construction system combining CLT, Glulam and concrete elements. It serves as an excellent example of sustainable high-rise construction using solid wood.
3. The Smile: Based in London, UK, The Smile is an innovative and award-winning project. It is a curved, tube-like structure made entirely of CLT panels. The Smile demonstrates the versatility of solid KVH wood in producing unique and aesthetically pleasing architectural designs.
4. Brock Commons Tallwood House: located at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, Brock Commons is an 18-storey student building. It is one of the tallest massive wooden buildings in the world. The structure uses a hybrid system of CLT floor panels, glued columns and steel fixings. This project demonstrates the feasibility and sustainability of constructing tall buildings using solid wood.
5. Forté Apartments: located in Melbourne, Australia, Forté Apartments was the world’s tallest all-timber apartment building at the time of its completion. Built over ten floors, it features a combination of CLT floor and wall panels, along with BSH columns and beams. This project demonstrates the use of solid wood in the residential sector, offering a sustainable and visually appealing living environment.