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Panelised timber building system from Finnish modular builder Talo finds new audiences in the UK.
A Finnish manufacturer of panelised timber building systems for low-rise housing is expanding its operations into the UK. Talo, known for its 2D panelised timber system, has been an active player in Scandinavian housing for over 40 years. Their modular construction approach, which focuses on manufacturing panelised timber elements, is said to deliver high-quality, energy-efficient homes at a competitive cost.
Moving into the UK market
Talo Build Ltd, the company’s UK branch, was established in 2019 and has begun importing flat-pack components from Finland for local assembly. The company now plans to set up a series of workshops across the UK, starting in Scotland.
“We are advancing plans for our first UK factory,” a Talo representative said. “As demand grows, we aim to establish additional offsite manufacturing facilities throughout the country, helping meet housing needs and support local employment.”
Unlike traditional volumetric modular builders with large centralised factories, Talo’s model involves smaller, local workshops. This allows for more efficient production and the ability to respond quickly to regional housing requirements.
ICW endorsement secured for expansion
As part of its preparations for the UK market, Talo has achieved ICW Endorsed accreditation from ICW Group, a structural insurance warranty specialist. According to company release, this accreditation ensures that Talo’s offsite timber building system is approved for use alongside ICW’s structural warranties, pending site audits, providing confidence to housing developers and lenders alike.
Talo’s Technical Director, Leona Wikman, emphasised the significance of this milestone: “This certification will open new doors in the residential sector and offer independent verification of the consistently high standards we maintain.”
The ICW accreditation is an important step for Talo as it seeks to broaden its market reach in the UK. It reassures developers that Talo’s system meets the necessary requirements and is recognised by major mortgage lenders.
Talo’s timber system and build process
Talo’s construction method centres on a panelised timber building system that is manufactured offsite and assembled on location. The company’s walls incorporate multiple layers designed for optimal air-tightness, thermal performance, and moisture control. With U-values ranging from 0.10 to 0.14 W/m²K, the system is well-suited to the UK’s climate, offering a highly energy-efficient solution.
At the heart of the wall structure is a Kingspan SPU, which serves as both a vapour and air barrier, eliminating cold bridges and ensuring a draft-free living environment. The design allows for electrical installations without compromising the vapour barrier, maintaining the building’s integrity and efficiency.
Rapid On-Site Assembly
One of Talo’s key strengths is the speed with which their modular homes can be constructed. Once delivered, the panelised timber building system can make a building watertight within five days. Depending on the project’s complexity, it’s said the homes can be ready for occupancy in as little as five weeks. This accelerated build process reduces costs compared to traditional construction methods, making it a practical option for developers looking to keep timelines and budgets under control.
Watch Talo’s timber modular building system in action.
The company has also prioritised energy efficiency, equipping its homes with features like triple-glazed windows, low-energy doors, and double-density plasterboards to help reduce long-term energy costs for homeowners.
Plans for UK production
Talo is actively working to establish its first UK factory and, over time, intends to set up additional workshops across the country. These smaller production hubs will allow Talo to meet the needs of local developers more effectively, reducing the environmental impact of long-distance transportation and improving response times.
The company sees a significant opportunity to supply the UK market with affordable, energy-efficient homes. By building a local network of production facilities, Talo aims to support the increasing demand for sustainable housing while maintaining the high standards that have made it successful in Scandinavia.
Commitment to sustainability
Sustainability is also a central aspect of Talo’s modular system. The company uses timber from sustainably managed forests and focuses on minimising waste through its offsite prefabrication process.
As the company expands in the UK, its sustainable construction methods may well appeal to developers seeking eco-friendly solutions. Talo’s range of housing designs, from detached homes to small apartment buildings, is adaptable and tailored to the needs of various housing markets across the country.
