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CLT bucks trend in construction slowdown

Södra is adding another shift at its facility for cross-laminated timber in Värö and doubling capacity. Production commenced at the facility two months ago and the number of inquiries is continuously increasing according to the company. Source: Timberbiz

“The industry has understood that wooden structural systems entail sustainable and efficient construction,” said Urban Blomster, Business Development Manager Building Systems.

On 18 November, Södra’s facility for cross-laminated timber (CLT) increased to two shifts and four new employees were taken on, doubling the production capacity.

The development of CLT as structural building components is about to change the construction market.

Industrial timber construction enables more efficient on-site installation, and environmental impacts can be halved by using timber frames for the construction of multi-storey buildings instead of other material. Another benefit is that timber is perceived as promoting a better indoor climate for residents.

“The forces driving society to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are strong, and the interest in sustainable construction is growing in the market. We are now creating an opportunity to make a climate-conscious choice in the market, which is important today,” Mr Blomster said.

The production increase is being implemented in a construction market where several recent reports have indicated a slowdown in construction. The trend for Södra is in the opposite direction.

“Demand for wooden structural systems for large construction projects is on the rise and we have therefore chosen to raise the production rate. We offer building systems and products such as building components and fasteners, as well as new digital services to simplify and gain better control over the construction process,” Mr Blomster said.