Straw bale homes
Unlike the flimsy straw houses you read about in fairy tales, straw bale homes are a simple, cost effective and highly energy efficient building choice. The straw bale building trend has been growing in Australia over the past decade, with several specialists now offering custom designs, ready-designed straw bale homes and even workshops on how to DIY. Straw bale homes are beautifully light and natural feeling, ideal for finishing with timber doors and window frames. Indeed, if you browse images of modern straw bale homes, you’ll see several striking timber doors and window frames, not to mention timber decking and flooring!

Shipping container homes
Shipping containers are all about cold, durable metal – so you may not expect that homes built with them would work well with timber elements. However, they’re actually the ideal complement to the hard lines and solid blocks that are shipping containers. Not only do they soften designs and create interesting contrasts, timber is also a great insulator for shipping containers, which can otherwise get hot without shade and other insulation methods. When you browse images of well-designed shipping container homes – even DIY projects – you’ll find that they often feature timber window frames and even cladding/flooring.

Wood Pallet Homes
One of the hottest new ideas in sustainable modular home construction is wooden pallet homes. The idea was pioneered by architectural firm I-Beam Design, which has developed an affordable DIY guide that shows anyone how to build a basic pallet house. These basic modular designs are designed to work without separate windows and doors, however, when customised, timber is the natural choice for window frames and doors. Browse images of wooden pallet houses and you’ll find some great examples of mixing and matching timbers.

1. It stores carbon

Around about 50% of the dry weight of wood is carbon. When a tree takes in carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, it keeps the carbon molecules for use in the photosynthesis process, to produce cellulose (as well as sugars and starch). Different trees store carbon at different rates- for example, fast growing species including pine trees can store carbon at a rate of around 5 tons per acre per year. It is for this reason that some heavily forested areas are referred to as ‘carbon sinks’.

2. It can re-grow – fast!

Possibly the most obvious of these reasons, timber can be renewed and the wood re-grown with just soil, light and water. One of the world’s most popular timbers, pine, only takes 10-20 years to be ready for harvest (depending on the intended use). Minerals that go into producing other building materials, from steel to heavy duty plastics, come from finite resources which are difficult and expensive to access. Further to that, once a plantation or managed forest site has been logged, it can be repopulated with trees within a relatively short time. It takes a long time to rehabilitate a former open cut mine area.

3. It’s recyclable

Unlike many other building materials, timber is readily recyclable. When a house is demolished, much of its timber can be salvaged and repurposed, because it can be easily cut and prepared for new uses – unlike other types of cladding, tiles and interior floor coverings etc. There are many organisations around Western Australia which specialise in salvaging valuable older timber, especially native species such as jarrah; you can rest assured that when your family is done with your timber in decades to come, there will be another use for it.

4. It’s durable

There are reasons why heritage buildings made from logs or made with timber frames are still standing today. Treated properly and used correctly, timber is surprisingly flexible and durable. It has the ability to stand up to a wide range of weather conditions and other stressors, year after year, and is relatively easy to repair.

The Forest Stewardship Council, abbreviated to FSC, is an independent, non-government, not-for-profit peak body which was formed to help monitor, manage and support the forestry industry to adopt and maintain sustainable practices. It is an international network which is dedicated to combating bad forestry practices and rewarding responsible management, in the form of marketing and certification amongst other services.

Over the past thirteen years, the Forest Stewardship Council has independently certified over 106,000,000 hectares of plantations, as well as 12,000 chain of custody organisations dedicated to providing only products made with the aforementioned FSC certified timber. What this means for end consumers is that the FSC logo and mark is a sign that they can be confident that their timber purchase, or their purchase of a paper product etc., is not contributing to rainforest destruction.

Greenpeace Good Wood is another independently monitored sustainable timber guide. A subsidiary of the wider Greenpeace organisation, it lists places that builders and end consumers can purchase timber which has been screened, monitored and found to have come from an ethical and ecologically sustainable source. The handy thing about their guide, available at www.goodwoodguide.org.au, is that products are arranged into three different categories: green, for sustainable species and/or FSC certified plantations, amber for those from plantations in transition and those which claim recycled/sustainable status, and red for those sources which should be avoided at all costs (i.e., they’re known to be from illegal and/or destructive logging operations).

What this means for those considering building their windows and doors from timber is that they can be sure their building project isn’t coming at the cost of precious, non-renewable rainforest habitats and other wild resources. Rather, it’s coming from a plantation that has been carefully planned and established to ensure that any trees growing there grow fast enough to keep up with demand. There are several sustainably produced timbers that are great for building with, both looks wise and structurally, so there’s no need to compromise the finished look on your home by choosing a more environmentally friendly product.

For more information about how we source and use sustainable timber, please contact us.

It’s all natural
Unlike some synthetic materials, timber is natural and non-toxic – it does not leak any vapours or require any special handling. This means it’s safe not only to work with and install, but also to live with for years to come.

Ready-made insulation
The internal structure of wood makes it a natural insulator, as it reflects a percentage of heat and cold from either side. It’s a great choice for windows, doors and floors, for stopping the heat/cool loss that leads to massive energy bills.

Easy to work
Timber is easy to work with. It can be prepared for use with very simple equipment, unlike some modern building materials which require preparation and pre-cutting in a specially equipped factory. This makes timber versatile as well – its shape can be adjusted slightly to fit the space it’s being used in.

Available
Timber is readily available all over Australia; no matter where you’re looking to build, there’s sure to be a lumber yard within a reasonable distance. Some newer building materials need to be specially ordered in from centralised production facilities in outer city areas.

Flexible and durable
One of the things that makes timber so great is the fact that it can gently move and shift with different weather conditions, whereas many alternative materials crack or break under the stress of heat or cold. When treated properly, it is also resistant to moisture (both humidity and rain), whereas strand board for example can swell up when it gets damp.

Sustainable
Timber is still the most sustainable building material on earth, despite all the stories about illegal logging operations. It stores carbon, most species can grow back in just a few decades (unlike mineral deposits, which are a finite resource), and it can be reused and recycled once it has outlived its current use.

Acoustics
Homes built with timber floors, cladding etc. often have better acoustics than those with tiles, plaster and metal. This is because timber absorbs a portion of the sound rather than reflecting it, leading to smooth and warm tones which accurately represent the original sound. Timber is also a natural sound insulator, so timber clad (and floored) rooms are quieter and more peaceful than those with just plaster board or tiles.

Looks
There’s nothing like the colour, grain and texture of timber. Whilst other modern materials may look sharp and smooth, the unique variations in timber are inimitable. If you want your home to be a real one of a kind, then timber is the only option.

Double glazing:

Double glazed windows are windows which are actually made up of two panes of glass with a very narrow space between them. The physical effect of this is that heat loss and noise is reduced, because it dissipates in that small space instead of going right through the window. Double glazing can be a little more expensive than regular windows, but is very much worth it in the long run given the peace of mind and savings on energy bills.

Energy film:

Energy film, also known as insulating window film, is a very thin film that uses nanoparticle technology to protect against heat (or cold) loss both ways. It is a simple solution which many homeowners turn to as it can be applied after the windows have been installed. Depending on the brand and type of film you select, you may be able to save up to 35% on your energy costs.

Safety film:

Safety film is a great idea for households with small children or pets. When applied to windows, it prevents breaking and shattering when the window is impacted. Smoothed on to the inside surface, it creates a high tensile barrier that means that if the window does break (much less likely), it cracks or breaks outwards – meaning little feet (and paws) are in much less danger of injury.

Security film:

Security film is a step up from safety film, and a great way to help protect your home from unwanted intruders. These films combine multiple layers of crystal clear laminated polyester with special adhesives which keep them clear, strong and bubble free for years to come. Even when struck with a rock, brick or other weapon such as a crowbar, windows with security film won’t be broken.

Tinting:

Window tinting film is a great option for privacy which allows light into your home, and allows you to see out clearly, without letting nosy parkers see in to your rooms. It’s ideal for large floor-to-ceiling windows, especially in rooms which get a lot of sun in mid-morning or mid-afternoon- tinting blocks up to 98% of UV rays, helping protect your furniture and upholstery against premature fading and sun damage.

For more information on window glazing options, including custom frosted windows in any of the styles we offer, please contact us.

Hinges

A timber door needs a hinge that is supportive enough to carry its weight without placing excess stress on the door itself. If you’re going for a clean modern look, you’ll also want something unobtrusive. A Taurus Installations rep will be able to identify the right hinges for your new door design.

Knockers

Door knockers are disappearing from modern design, as more and more people get doorbells or electric buzzers. However, they can be a pleasant highlight against traditional timber doors.

Signs/numbers

Does your street number appear on your letterbox, front gate or front door? If it’s your door, does your new front door design allow space for brass/stainless steel street numbers?

Door closers

A door closer is a hydraulic mechanism that ensures that doors are slowly and gently closed. They may be ideal for heavy doors which may otherwise make a loud banging noise when let go quickly or slammed. They can be fitted to either the interior or exterior, depending which way the door opens.

Sliding door systems

We offer a range of sliding door systems, to help you close doors easily and really open up your back rooms. Try stacking doors to maintain floor space when doors are open.

Bolts and chains, including flush bolts

There are plenty of different security conscious options to choose from. If you’re designing double doors, consider a flush bolt on the fixed side.

Weather seals

Weather seals are an absolute essential for ensuring that your doors are environmentally friendly and energy efficient. Choose from different styles including brush seals and rubber door seals, depending on the flooring surface on either side of the door.

Floor / wall stops

Floor and wall stops are pieces of hardware that attach not to the door itself, but to the wall or floor at the base of where the door is in its fully open position. They’re designed to prevent damage and slamming noises when the door is opened quickly. Added extras such as magnetic catches can help hold doors open.

Face plates / trim plates

These are the bits around the lock hole itself. Some people choose a basic face plate, some people prefer something that hides and blends in the lock, and some people prefer an ornate antique-style face plate- it’s all up to you.

Door viewers / peepholes

Another security add-on, door viewers are small holes in your door that allow you to see who’s at the front door without opening it – yet doesn’t let anyone see in. Choose from basic models or fully digital versions which can be integrated with a new or existing security system.

Decorative metal components incl. studs

There’s nothing more imposing or impressive than a heavy wooden door with metal studs or cast iron work overlaid. If you’re building, for example, a garage door on a heritage-style building, consider a little embellishment like this.

1. Tinted glass in a natural timber frame

When we think of french doors we normally think of white painted frames with clear glass that lets in light both ways. However, natural or stained timber frames with reflective ‘one-way’ style film can also be a great way to bring light into your home without compromising on privacy. It’s all about reflecting the world around you, especially if your home is surrounded by a lush garden; imagine the trees and greenery reflected in an au naturale timber frame.

2. Contrast with floorboards

Many people seem to go for continuity when it comes to choosing a timber or stain for their french doors. However, a certain level of contrast can look great- especially when the doors lie between indoor and outdoor flooring (floorboards and a deck, for example). Take a look at this image from our gallery for a little inspiration.

3. Hardware choices

Because french doors open from the centre, the hardware can become the focal point of the doorway. Try selecting something that reflects the contours of the timber door itself; for example, rather than a round door knob, try a slimline handle in a warm shade within the same tonal range as the door itself.

4. No muntins

Another feature of traditional french doors is square muntins, dividing the glass up into segments. For a modern look, consider single panes in your french doors. This will mean a better view from inside and a cleaner look to the exterior of your home- especially important in contemporary architecture.

5. Stay away from white

White paint is a traditional choice, especially for exterior doors- it lends light and a sense of contrast with surrounding materials including red brick and plaster. However, natural or stained timber can look just as striking, if you choose a timber with the right grain and textural appearance for the context. For example, a pale Meranti would give a similar effect to white painted wood, whilst a lovely dark jarrah can look great against pale coloured plaster and rendered surfaces.

The Cloisters

Located at 200 St Georges Terrace in the city, The Cloisters is a heritage building first constructed in 1858 as a secondary school for boys. The beautiful brick archways frame heavy doors which lend to the grandeur of the building as a whole. It’s a great inspiration for unusually shaped door frames, showing that a frame needn’t be just a rectangular hole in the wall.

The Perth Mint

First opened in 1899, the Perth Mint is Australia’s oldest consistently operating mint. Located on Hay Street in the CBD, it features a beautiful main entry with two doors side by side in a larger frame, highlighted by the archway that leads down the front steps. It is an interesting inspiration for those considering adding a timber deck or patio to their property; there is plenty of opportunity for the two to fit together in a dynamic way.

Fremantle Town Hall

This building has remained largely unchanged since it was first opened in 1997, making it unique amongst WA’s heritage sites. The front doors are of painted timber, whilst internal doors feature new glass in timber frames. It’s a great showcase of the fact that traditional profiles can be mixed with new materials; for example, if you have a cottage-style home and you want to add a modern touch, you could consider tinted glass in a dark frame.

Houghton Winery

In phonaesthetics, ‘cellar door’ is widely considered one of the most beautiful phrases- and at Houghton Winery in WA’s Swan Valley, the beauty of this semantically dull common noun is brought to life. The solid, rectangular timber doors which lead through to the official cellars & tasting area are solid and traditional yet light in colour- a sharp contrast to the (literally) dark interior of the cellar itself. If you’re thinking of having double doors as the main entrance to your home, or at the back opening onto your yard, think about how they’ll look in context (whether or not you have timber cladding).

Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata
Native to western North America, the Western Red Cedar is a ubiquitous tree along the west coast; in fact, it’s the provincial (state) tree of British Columbia. An evergreen conifer (a softwood), it is incredibly versatile and suitable for a range of building applications (it’s about 30% lighter than your average building wood). The timber itself is a light red-brown colour, with a straight grain and very few knots, meaning it is suitable for more minimalist contemporary designs where a flawless surface is essential. It has good natural fungicidal properties, making it resistant to rotting.

Jarrah
Eucalyptus marginata
An Australian native found mostly in the south west of Western Australia, jarrah is a heavy hardwood which is prized for its rich colour and beautiful grain, as well as the natural rot and termite resistance that comes from the chemical composition of its natural oils. It is iconic around Perth and wider WA, as it has been used for building since settlement; many heritage homes feature jarrah flooring or beams. It is so resistant to rot that it is often used in waterside decking and even hot tubs. Jarrah is the ideal choice for heritage homes or modern homes in a semi-rural setting.

Meranti
Shorea
Meranti is not actually a single species, but rather the collective name for a group of nearly 200 timber trees belonging to the Shorea genus. Native to the tropical rainforests of southeast Asia, with the most diversity being found in Borneo (90+ species are endemic to the island), meranti timber is marketed under a number of different names worldwide. Timber from trees in this genus varies from pale pink to dark red in some species, and straw white-ish to yellow in others; the palest shades can be easily stained in a wide range of different colours, to resemble more expensive timbers. Many people enjoy the attractive ribbon-like grain, which can look quite lustrous with the right finish.

• Antiques:
  If you’re having a heritage-style door built, you and/or your designer may wish to consider looking for a door handle/knocker at an auction or a salvage yard. Vintage or antique second-hand pieces are often surprisingly affordable, and there’s nothing quite like having the authentic, original hardware on your door. One only has to Google Image search ‘vintage door knobs’ for a taste of the delightfully intricate old-world designs that are available. From Italianate lions’ heads to heavy iron rings, there’s something amazing for any size and shape of door.
• Brass v Stainless Steel v Chrome
  Not sure what to go for when choosing your door handle, lock faceplate and doorknob? It’s important to think of durability and security as well as looks. Brass is classic but the warmth may not suit the colour of your timber door. Stainless steel is very strong and stays looking great for ages without developing a patina or getting dirty, but it can be a little boring and lacking in character. If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, you may even wish to consider a powder-coated finish – choose from just about any colour you want.
• Locks
  There are so many different options for mechanical locks, from basic lock sets to heavy duty deadbolts and chain latches. Your choice will depend on a number of factors, including the height, width and weight of your door (for example, many solutions are designed especially for double doors). It’s also important to consider the faceplate of the lock and how it impacts on the overall look of the door; from a simple flat rectangle to an elaborate antique style design, the faceplate will be amongst the first things any visitor notices as they first reach for the door handle. If you’re looking at getting a digital lock, on the other hand, you’ll want to carefully consider whether that will be the best fit with a timber door. They can look great on garage doors, but a little out of place elsewhere.

Want to explore hardware options in more depth? Don’t forget to ask about the choices when you speak to a Taurus Installations representative.