Our materials

We use carefully researched materials that not only improve a building's performance, but are also safer to work with, safer to live in, and have a lower environmental impact than conventional alternatives. We keep up to date with new products and carefully assess whether they can improve what we offer our clients.

Wood

Okay, we'll start with the obvious… As carpenters, wood is our favourite material! It's an incredibly diverse and regenerative resource — unlike finite resources, forests replenish naturally when managed well. We source our wood from PEFC and FSC managed forests, almost always in Europe. Even our primary insulation is made from wood fibre.

We work with spruce, douglas fir, oak, ash, larch, and many others, each suited to different structural or aesthetic needs. We also care about knowing exactly where our wood comes from, and about the forests and trees behind it.

We're confident that when sourced responsibly, wood is the key material to building a sustainable future.

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Formaldehyde-free

We choose formaldehyde-free, low-VOC products — not just for the environment, but for the people who spend time in and around the building. That means us, working with these materials on site every day, and our clients, who will live or work in the space for years after completion. Fewer emissions mean better indoor air quality and a healthier home.

One example is our choice of ESB instead of conventional OSB. While standard OSB relies on formaldehyde-based adhesives, ESB achieves the same structural performance without these substances — a small change that reflects our broader approach: healthy buildings that perform.

Airtightness

Airtightness is one of the most underrated factors in a building's performance, yet it has a major impact on comfort, energy use and long-term durability. Done properly, it also protects against trapped moisture and condensation.

That's why we work exclusively with Siga and Intello for our airtight layers and membranes. Both are known for their smart membranes: intelligent vapour-control layers that adjust their permeability to humidity levels, keeping moisture out in winter and letting the structure dry out in summer.

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Lime and hemp

For our floors, we can work with lime and hemp, a natural mixture that insulates excellently and regulates moisture. This breathable material keeps indoor humidity in balance, contributing to a healthy indoor climate, while its good thermal mass provides a stable temperature with lower energy use.

Hemp grows quickly, needs little water or pesticides, and captures CO₂ as it grows — combined with lime, that CO₂ stays locked in for years. With every floor we build this way, we contribute to both a healthier home and a smaller ecological footprint.

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Ready to work together?

Have an idea of what you'd like to renovate, or questions about what we can do for you? Feel free to get in touch.

Jack en Daan
Contact

Aan de slag dan maar!

T: 0343-745295

Kosterman Bouw

Alexanderweg 77-06
3945 CH Cothen

info@elementhoutbouwers.nl

BTW: 868205904B01
KvK: 97729922

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