WoodLCC-Enhanced Life-Cycle-Costing in wood construction by novel methods for service life planning

Purpose and goal:

One of the basic indicators for sustainability and cost effectiveness in construction is life-cycle costing (LCC). The analysis relies on detailed knowledge of the service life, the expected maintenance interval, and the costs of the products and labour. LCC is often based on simplified default service life estimates. The overall objective of the project is to improve service life input data and map user preferences to enable and facilitate more precise and robust LCC for wood-based products.

Expected results and effects:

The project will ensure an efficient use of resources by optimising the wood product to the end user performance requirements. The delivery of reliable timber products meeting aesthetic and functional serviceability and LCC expectations will consequently improve the wood materials life cycles environmental, societal and economic impacts, reducing the cost burden (economic and societal) of premature failure in service and replacement due to obsolescence.

Approach and implementation:

Objectives are achieved by (1) developing and using novel models for service life prediction, (2) quantifying the effect of best practice related to design, maintenance and inspections frequency on service life, (3) surveying user preferences at a European scale, (4) comparing the LCC of wood with alternative materials, (5) analyzing cost benefits of moisture safety measures during the construction phase, (6) identifying and analyzing potential risks associated with the use of mass timber in exterior walls, (7) validating service life and LCC estimates based on case studies.