CAN TIMBER HOUSES BE PRODUCTIVELY FASTER TO BUILD THAN OTHER BUILDINGS?

ABSTRACT To identify the time spent with the different construction techniques of timber houses, this study evaluates the execution time of different models available in Brazil. Using face-to-face interviews, semi-structured questionnaires were randomly applied to collect average time according to distinct production methods. The most efficient techniques were: ‘clapboard and wainscot’, ‘post-and-beam’, and ‘log-home’ using artisanal production; ‘clapboard and wainscot’, ‘stick framing with masonry’, and ‘post-and-beam’ in semi-industrial process; and, ‘modular for building sites’, ‘modular in cross-laminated timber’ and ‘modular woodframe’ in industrial production. Different industrial developers were not as agile as artisanal competitors due to production obstacles in customized projects. Timber construction offers lower execution time than masonry, representing an agile form to build a versatile sustainable dwelling.