**5. House component construction**

Laminated or cross-laminated timber houses, also known as wooden houses in the tropic, typically consist of several components that work together to create a strong and durable structure [22–24].

Some of the main components for house construction include:

The foundation of a timber house is typically made of concrete or masonry, and it provides a solid base for the rest of the structure [25].

Wall framing: The walls of a timber house are typically made of wooden studs that are spaced at regular intervals and connected with plates and other framing members.

The roof of a timber house is typically made of wooden rafters that are connected to the walls and support the roof covering.

Sheathing is a layer of wood or other material that is attached to the exterior of the wall and roof framing to provide additional strength and rigidity.

Siding: Siding is the outermost layer of the wall that provides protection against the elements and adds esthetic appeal. Common siding materials include wood, vinyl, and fiber cement.

The roof covering protects the house from the weather and includes materials such as shingles, metal, or tile.

Windows and doors: These are openings in the walls that provide access and light. Wooden houses typically use wooden windows and doors to match the overall esthetic.

Insulation is used to improve the energy efficiency of the house and keep it comfortable year-round. Common insulation materials include fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam.

*Engineered Wood Products from Planted Tropical Timber Species DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.112203*

**Figure 10.** *Another design of the universal end joint braces.*

The interior finishes that include the materials such as drywall, trim, and flooring that are used to finish the inside of the house and create a comfortable living space.

Wall framing is an essential component of a wood house. It involves creating a structure that will support the weight of the roof and the other elements of the house [26–28].

All of these components are joint together in creating a strong and stable. Metallic braces shown in **Figures 10** and **11** are quite commonly used.

Some of the steps involved in wall framing for a wood house are as follows:

The first step is to create a plan for the wall framing. This will involve determining the size and spacing of the studs, as well as the placement of windows and doors.

Once the plan is in place, the wall can be laid out on the building site. This will involve measuring and marking the locations of the studs and other framing members.

Next, the wood for the wall framing can be cut to size. This will typically involve using a saw to cut the studs, plates, and other framing members to the desired length.

With the lumber cut to size, the wall can be assembled. This will involve nailing or screwing the studs and other framing members together according to the plan.

Once the wall is assembled, it can be raised into place. This will typically require the help of several people to lift the wall and position it correctly.

Once the wall is in place, it will need to be secured to the foundation and the adjacent walls. This will involve using nails, screws, or bolts to attach the wall to the

**Figure 11.** *A universal corner braces.*

**Figure 12.** *The T-metallic braces used between the laminated timber beam and the pole.*

other elements of the house. **Figures 12**–**14** show the metallic braces used in joining laminated beams with the timber poles.

Once the wall is secured, a layer of sheathing can be added to provide additional strength and rigidity. This may involve using plywood, OSB, or another material to cover the exterior of the wall framing.

Finally, windows and doors can be installed in the wall framing. This will involve cutting openings in the sheathing and framing to accommodate the windows and doors, and then installing them according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Roof framing is another critical component of a timber house that supports the roof's weight and provides structural stability [29–31].

The steps are involved in roof framing:

Before starting the roof framing process, you need to design the roof, which will involve choosing the roof style, calculating the pitch or slope, and determining the load-bearing capacity.

The ridge beam is the horizontal beam that runs along the roof's peak, and it is the roof's highest point. The ridge beam is supported by the walls and should be the first component of the roof framing installed.

*Engineered Wood Products from Planted Tropical Timber Species DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.112203*

#### **Figure 13.**

*Metallic brackets are used to strengthened the structure between the house beams and poles.*

**Figure 14.** *The metallic braces or brackets are used to strengthen the roof structure.*

The rafters are the sloping beams that connect the ridge beam to the wall plates. They need to be installed at regular intervals, and their size and spacing will depend on the roof design and load-bearing capacity.

Collar ties or ridge boards are horizontal members installed between opposing rafters to provide additional structural stability.

Purlins are horizontal beams that are installed perpendicular to the rafters and support the roof covering. They may be necessary for certain roof types or heavy roofing materials like slate or tile.

Roof sheathing is a layer of material installed over the rafters and purlins, providing a flat surface for the roof covering to be installed. Plywood, OSB, or other materials can be used for sheathing.

The final step in roof framing is to install the roof covering. The covering can be made of a variety of materials, including shingles, metal, tile, or slate.

Roof framing requires careful planning, accurate measurements, and knowledge of structural engineering. It is essential to follow building codes and regulations to ensure that the roof framing is safe and meets all standards.

Sheathing is an important component of a timber house that is installed on the exterior walls and roof framing. Its primary purpose is to provide a strong, flat surface for the installation of exterior finishes and to add structural rigidity to the building [32].

Some common sheathing materials used in wood house construction include the following:

Plywood is a popular choice for sheathing because it is strong, durable, and resistant to moisture. It is typically made of thin layers of wood veneer that are glued together with the grain direction alternating between layers.

Oriented strand board (OSB) is a type of engineered wood product that is made from wood strands that are bonded together with resin and wax. It is less expensive than plywood and provides good structural strength [33].

Fiberboard is a type of wood-based panel that is made from wood fibers that are bonded together with a resin binder. It is lightweight and easy to cut, and provides good insulation value.

Gypsum board, also known as drywall, is a type of sheathing that is made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two layers of paper. It is commonly used as an interior sheathing material but can also be used on the exterior in certain applications.

Insulating sheathing is a type of sheathing that provides both structural support and insulation value. It is typically made of foam plastic insulation with a rigid facing material like plywood or OSB.

When selecting a sheathing material for a wood house, it is essential to consider the climate, the intended use, and the local building codes and regulations. Proper installation of sheathing is also critical to ensure that it functions correctly and provides adequate structural support.

Siding is an important component of a wood house as it provides protection from the elements, enhances curb appeal, and adds to the house's overall esthetic [34–36].

Some common types of siding for a wood house are as follows:

Wood siding is a traditional and popular choice for a wood house. It is available in a variety of species, including cedar, pine, and redwood. Wood siding can be painted or stained, and it is easy to replace individual boards if necessary.

Vinyl siding is a low-maintenance and affordable option for a wood house. It is available in a variety of colors and styles, including those that mimic the look of wood siding. Vinyl siding can be easily cleaned with soap and water and does not require painting.

Fiber cement siding is a durable and low-maintenance option for a wood house. It is made of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, and it is available in a variety of colors and styles, including those that mimic the look of wood siding.

Brick or stone veneer: Brick or stone veneer can add a timeless and classic look to a wood house. It is available in a variety of styles and colors, and it is durable and of low maintenance.

Stucco is a popular choice for a wood house with a southwestern or Mediterranean style. It is made of a mixture of cement, sand, and lime, and it can be painted in a variety of colors.

When selecting a siding material for a wood house, it is essential to consider the climate, the intended use, and the local building codes and regulations. Proper installation of siding is also critical to ensure that it functions correctly and provides adequate protection from the elements.

Roof covering is the material that is installed over the roof framing to provide protection from the elements [37, 38].

Some common types of roof coverings for a wooden house are as follows:

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof covering for a wooden house. They are affordable, easy to install, and available in a wide range of colors and styles. They typically last 15–30 years depending on the quality. Metal roofing is a durable and long-lasting option for a wooden house. It is available in a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and copper, and it can last up to 50 years or more. Metal roofing is resistant to fire, insects, and rot, and it is energy-efficient.

Wood shingles or shakes are a traditional and classic choice for a wooden house. They are made from cedar or redwood, and they can last up to 30 years or more. They require regular maintenance, including cleaning, sealing, and occasional replacement of damaged or worn shingles.

Clay or concrete tiles are a popular choice for a wooden house with a Spanish-style architecture. They are durable and long lasting, with a lifespan of up to 50 years or more. They are available in a variety of colors and styles.

Slate is a high-end and long-lasting option for a wooden house. It is made from natural stone, and it can last up to 100 years or more. It is available in a variety of colors and styles, and it is highly resistant to fire and insects.

When selecting a roof covering for a wooden house, it is essential to consider the climate, the intended use, and the local building codes and regulations. Proper installation of the roof covering is also critical to ensure that it functions correctly and provides adequate protection from the elements.

Windows and doors are essential components of a wooden house. They provide natural light, ventilation, and access to the outdoors.

Some common types of windows and doors for a wooden house are as follows [39–42]:

Single-hung windows are a classic and traditional choice for a wooden house. They consist of a fixed upper sash and a lower sash that slides up and down to allow ventilation.

Double-hung windows are similar to single-hung windows but with two movable sashes that slide up and down. They are a more modern and convenient option for a wooden house.

Casement windows are hinged at the side and swing outward like a door. They provide excellent ventilation and are a good choice for areas with a lot of wind.

Sliding windows consist of two or more sashes that slide horizontally past each other. They are a popular choice for modern and contemporary wooden houses.

French doors are a classic and elegant choice for the entrance to a wooden house or a patio. They consist of two doors that open outward from the center and provide a wide opening for easy access.

Sliding doors consist of two or more panels that slide horizontally past each other. They are a popular choice for a wooden house with a modern and minimalist style.

When selecting windows and doors for a wooden house, it is essential to consider the style, energy efficiency, and local building codes and regulations. Proper installation of windows and doors is also critical to ensure that they function correctly and provide adequate insulation and security.

Insulation is a critical component of a wooden house as it helps to reduce energy costs, improve indoor comfort, and protect against moisture and air infiltration.

Some common types of insulation for a wooden house are as follows:

Fiberglass insulation is a popular and affordable option for a wooden house. It is made of glass fibers and is available in batts or blown-in form. Fiberglass insulation has a high R-value (a measure of its resistance to heat flow) and can be used in walls, ceilings, and floors.

Cellulose insulation is made of recycled paper and is available in blown-in form. It has a high R-value and is a good choice for a wooden house with high ceilings or irregularly shaped spaces.

Spray foam insulation is a high-performance and energy-efficient option for a wooden house. It is available in two types: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell foam is less dense and is used for interior walls and ceilings, while closed-cell foam is denser and is used for exterior walls and roofs.

Mineral wool insulation is made of rock or slag fibers and is available in batts or blown-in form. It has a high R-value and is a good choice for a wooden house in areas with high winds or extreme temperatures.

Rigid foam insulation is a board-like material that is available in a variety of types, including polystyrene, polyurethane, and polyisocyanurate. It has a high R-value and is a good choice for a wooden house with a basement or crawl space.

When selecting insulation for a wooden house, it is essential to consider the climate, the local building codes and regulations, and the type of construction. Proper installation of insulation is also critical to ensure that it functions correctly and provides adequate protection against moisture and air infiltration.

Interior finishes for a wooden house play an essential role in creating a comfortable and inviting living space.

Some common types of interior finishes for a wooden house are as follows [43, 44]:

Drywall is a popular and affordable option for the walls and ceilings of a wooden house. It is made of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two layers of paper and is available in different sizes and thicknesses.

Wood paneling is a classic and traditional option for the walls and ceilings of a wooden house. It can be made of various types of wood, including pine,

cedar, and oak, and is available in different styles, such as tongue-and-groove or shiplap.

Paint is a versatile and affordable option for the walls and ceilings of a wooden house. It is available in a wide range of colors and finishes and can be used to create different moods and styles.

Stucco is a durable and low-maintenance option for the interior walls of a wooden house. It is made of cement, sand, and lime and is applied in several layers to create a smooth or textured finish.

Tile is a popular and stylish option for the floors, walls, and backsplashes of a wooden house. It is available in different materials, such as ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone, and can be used to create different patterns and designs.

Carpet is a comfortable and cozy option for the floors of a wooden house. It is available in different colors and textures and can be used to add warmth and softness to a room.

When selecting interior finishes for a wooden house, it is essential to consider the style, durability, and maintenance requirements. Proper installation of interior finishes is also critical to ensure that they function correctly and provide a comfortable and inviting living space.
