Engineering insights for timber construction.
Technical articles, specification notes and project commentary from our in-house structural engineers and the wider Rothoblaas UK network.
TLL vs SNK vs HTS-HT: Which Timber Screw for Which Job?
Why Choosing the Right Timber Screw MattersUsing the wrong screw in a timber connection isn't just a cosmetic issue — it can affect structural integrity, long-term durability, and the finish of your project. Whether y...
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How to Build a Garden Room: Frame, Fixings and Weatherproofing
A practical guide to building a garden room that lasts: the base, the frame connections, weatherproofing and cladding protection, and how...
How to Protect Timber Cladding from Water and UV Greying
How timber cladding weathers, why water and UV are the real culprits, and how a breathable, penetrating coating protects it while you cho...
Timber Fastener Spacing: Getting Screw Spacing and Edge Distances Right
A practical guide to timber fastener spacing: why edge and end distances matter, where the rules come from, and how to get them right usi...
Breather Membranes for Timber Frame: Choosing and Installing Them Right
A breather membrane is cheap to buy and easy to get wrong. What it does in a timber frame wall, how to choose the right vapour-open grade...
Eurocode 5 Explained: How Timber Structures Are Designed in the UK
Every structural timber building in the UK is designed to Eurocode 5. A plain-English guide to what the code is, the strength and service...
Timber Connector Plates and Hold-Downs: Resisting Uplift and Overturning
Most timber connections carry load down; hold-downs and tensile plates stop the structure lifting or tipping over. What connector plates ...
Hidden Decking Fasteners: How to Build a Deck With No Visible Screws
A deck with no visible screws looks cleaner and lasts longer. How hidden decking fasteners work, the difference between concealed connect...
Timber Joist Hangers: How to Choose and Install the Right Connector
A joist hanger carries a big responsibility in a small piece of metal. How to choose between face-fixed, concealed, and top-flange timber...
CLT Connection Design to Eurocode 5: A UK Engineer's Guide
CLT panels rarely fail; the connections do the work. A UK engineer's guide to designing cross-laminated timber connections to Eurocode 5,...
How to use the TimbA fastener calculator: screws, dowels, and anchors for Rothoblaas connectors
The TimbA Fastener Calculator works out how many screws, dowels, and anchors each Rothoblaas connector needs, with quantities pulled from...
Structural timber screws: how to choose the right fastener in the UK
Structural timber screws carry real load, so the right choice matters. A clear UK guide to fully versus partially threaded, sizing, coati...