Environmental and health considerations should
always come fi rst when choosing materials for our homes.
Look for environmental credentials of companies and
products as they will vary greatly between brands and
manufacturing plants. Consider the lifecycle assessment
(LCA) of the product, which refers to the environmental
impact of the product over its lifetime, including its
ultimate disposal or recycling; and Chain of Custody
— the chronological documentation of a product
from its original source through to its purchase by the
end consumer. Many products, such as timber, carry
certifi cation for quality assurance.
As with all building material choices, it’s best to work
with professionals who can provide the most up-to-date
research and product information, as well as creating
design options and suggesting colours and fi nishes before
you embark on your project.ABOVE Harcourt Quarry House from Grand
Designs Australia Series Six RIGHT South-East
London Urban Shed House from Grand Designs
UK Series 12SOURCEBOOK
// SOURCEBOOK ROOFING AND CLADDING