Commercial roof terraces, coveted for their urban oasis appeal, present a dual challenge of enduring harsh weather conditions and accommodating wear and tear.
These elevated spaces serve as havens for employees, customers, and guests, necessitating the integration of robust timber benches for both aesthetic enhancement and practical functionality. However, given the exposure to the elements and stringent fire safety regulations, the selection of appropriate timber is paramount. Striking a balance between durability, weather resistance, and adherence to fire codes is essential to ensure the longevity, safety, and allure of these integrated benches on bustling commercial roof terraces.
In the following blog post, we'll conduct a comparative analysis of the primary timber choices for integrated planter benches: Douglas Fir and Iroko. By delving into the advantages and drawbacks of each alternative, architects and contractors can be equipped to make an informed decision that aligns with the requirements of commercial terrace spaces.
What is Douglas Fir Timber?
Douglas Fir timber also known as British Columbian Pine or Oregon Pine, originates from the US and Canada, and has now spread to Europe, South America, and Australia. It’s a naturally durable wood that can withstand heavy-duty framing, cladding, decking and other outdoor projects.
What is Iroko Timber?
The west coast of tropical Africa is home to a hardwood tree called Iroko. Iroko wood has a rich colour, and is hard, heavy and long-lasting. Iroko looks very similar to Teak, earning it the nickname of African Teak. It has a very dense grain which contributes to its strength and anti-rot properties.
Douglas Fir Vs Iroko Timber for Roof Terrace Applications
Advantages of Douglas Fir
Douglas-fir is relatively strong and easy to work with. It can dry quickly without cracking or changing shape much. It can be cut, shaped and polished smoothly and easily. It can also be glued, nailed, and screwed well and can take a good finish. Overall, the workability of Douglas Fir is good.
With its reddish-brown colour in the heartwood and a white colour in the sapwood, Douglas Fir is often known for its appealing looks.
Disadvantages of Douglas Fir
Douglas Fir is a softwood that can be easily dented or scratched by impacts or abrasions. This can affect the look and feel of your terrace over time, especially in high-traffic areas.
Douglas Fir is not very resistant to moisture, fungi, and insects, which can cause rot, decay, or damage to your terrace. You will need to apply a proper sealant or finisher to protect your terrace from these elements and reapply it regularly to prevent it from fading or wearing off. You will also need to use insecticides or fungicides to prevent infestations or infections.
Advantages of Iroko Timber
Iroko Timber is highly resistant to both rot and insect attack. This means it does not need any chemical treatment to protect it from pests, or infestations from rot or fungus.
The appearance of Iroko Timber is similar to that of Teak.
Iroko Timber shares many of the same properties as Teak, but at a much lower price.
Iroko Timber has a long lifespan of up to 25+ years for outdoor use, which can even be extended if treated correctly.
Disadvantages of Iroko Timber
Iroko Timber can be relatively expensive compared to other types of wood. The price may fluctuate depending on the supply and demand in the market.
Iroko Timber trees grow slowly, meaning the supply of wood isn't as abundant.
Why Raaft uses Iroko Timber for Integrated Roof Terrace Benches
At Raaft, we aim to provide the best long-term and sustainable option for roof terraces. We have observed the dissatisfaction from organisations when using Douglas Fir, which often fails after 12 months. We believe it’s best to get it right the first time around, rather than investing in a cheaper material which will end up costing you more in the long run.
As you can tell, we’re huge fans of Iroko Timber – and there are many reasons for that, including:
Excellent durability and resistance
Iroko timber is very durable and resistant to rot, decay, insect attack, moisture, salt, and fungi. It has natural oils and resins that protect it from the elements and prevent warping, cracking, or discolouration. It does not need to be treated with oil or varnish to protect it when used outdoors.
Impressive thermal properties
Iroko timber has excellent thermal properties due to its high density. It can stay cooler in hot weather and warmer in cold weather, providing a comfortable environment throughout the year. It can also provide better insulation to the exterior of buildings, contributing to greater energy efficiency.
Aesthetic appeal
Iroko timber possesses a pleasant golden-yellow colour when first cut, which then transforms to a deeper medium golden-brown colour. Its final transformation is to a rich copper brown, which can enhance the look and feel of any outdoor space.
Sustainability
The IUCN Red List, a leading database of the conservation status of the world's biodiversity, ranks Iroko Timber in the lower risk category for wood. All Iroko Timber in the UK is sourced via managed forests which helps preserve various populations of trees for future generations. This ensures a continuation of the trees for the future. If you are looking for a wood that can last for decades and withstand the harshest conditions, Iroko Timber might be the perfect choice for you.
Championing Iroko Timber: Reliable Roof Terrace Systems from RAAFT
Based on our many years of experience in roof terrace design, we firmly believe Iroko Timber is the best option for your project. Not only does it bring exceptional durability to your terrace but impresses visually and aligns with genuine sustainability values.
For more information on our roof terrace systems, feel free to reach out and speak to our expert team. We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Get in touch with us today!
