Timber has earned a reputation as only being suitable for temporary structures. This need not have been the case and sadly, often these short-lived examples failed at the design stage. The same problems keep reoccurring. I have called these "The Seven Deadly Sins of External Timber Design". This course focuses on identifying the "sins" that prevent a timber structure from aging gracefully and can also compromise safety and, very importantly, learning how to avoid these issues. As a result, designers will be better equipped to meet their client's expectations by creating attractive and low-maintenance timber designs that stand the test of time.

Throughout the course, which should only take you an hour and a half at most, we will delve into each of the seven deadly sins in detail, using many images to illustrate examples and guidance on how to avoid them. You will be surprised at how logical good detailing is.

The areas addressed are:

1.      Trapping Moisture

2.      Inappropriate joist design

3.      Using “heart in” timber incorrectly

4.      Using sleepers in landscaping

5.      Using 150x150 in landscaping

6.      Setting hardwood posts in concrete

7.      Using incorrect durability ratings

There is a basic test after each of the "sins" but I suggest ignoring them and downloading a more comprehensive one in the next and also the final section, and then email me for the certificate.

Lesson Summary

Timber structures often have a reputation for being suitable only for temporary purposes due to design failures. A course has been developed to address common issues I call "The Seven Deadly Sins of External Timber Design". Avoiding them will prevent timber structures from prematurely deteriorating.

The course, designed to be completed within an hour and a half, aims to equip designers with the knowledge to create long-lasting and visually appealing timber designs. Participants will learn to avoid these sins and design structures that are both attractive and low-maintenance. Detailed explanations and visual examples will be provided to illustrate each sin and offer guidance on how to prevent them. Good detailing will be highlighted as a key factor in mitigating these design issues.