Tom Ward, co-founder of Wards Builders and Developers, talks about his experience of using West Fraser's CaberShield ECO flooring solution.

West Fraser has introduced CaberShield ECO, an eco‑friendly flooring solution engineered to meet the practical demands of residential, commercial and refurbishment construction. Providing a high‑performance, waterproof floor during the build phase, CaberShield ECO creates a slip‑resistant working platform while protecting floors below from the elements. BBA certified for up to 60 days' weather exposure, the system combines CaberFloor P5 with a factory‑applied, solvent‑free, UV‑cured resin coating which helps contractors keep programmes moving in all weather conditions.

"One of the biggest benefits is that you can install CaberShield ECO early and leave it in place throughout the build and it doesn't need to be changed at any point. The product is there for the long term. It's also resistant to water, UV exposure, and all weather conditions, which gives real peace of mind during the build programme", says Tom Ward, Wards Builders and Developers

Can you tell us about Wards Builders and Developers?

The business was set up by my dad, my brother and myself in November 2020. My Dad subsequently retired in 2022, and we now employ 15 people and cover London, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Buckinghamshire.We work across a range of sectors including extensions, renovations, new‑build housing, commercial projects, healthcare, and education.

What type of project did you use West Fraser products on?

We used West Fraser products on a new‑build residential project; specifically, a phase of six townhouses.

Why was CaberShield ECO chosen for this project?

CaberShield ECO was chosen because it was part of the architect's design specification. Jewson supplied the product, and CaberShield ECO met the same specification requirements while offering excellent protection qualities, which was important for this build.

What stood out to you about CaberShield ECO?

The main things for us were the durability and overall quality of the product. It performs exactly as you'd want on a live construction site.

What are the key benefits of using CaberShield ECO?

One of the biggest benefits is that you can install it early and leave it in place throughout the build and it doesn't need to be changed at any point. The product is there for the long term.It's also resistant to water, UV exposure, and all weather conditions, which gives real peace of mind during the build programme.

How did CaberShield ECO perform on site?

It performed very well. Once installed, it stayed in excellent condition throughout the build, despite being exposed to the elements.

Was the product easy to work with?

Yes, definitely. It's just as easy to use as other CaberDek flooring products, but with the added advantage of being more durable and more resistant. That makes a big difference on busy sites.

Do you plan to use CaberShield ECO again?

Yes, absolutely. We've already started using it elsewhere, including on restoration projects, because it's such a good product and delivers consistent performance.

Would you recommend CaberShield ECO to other contractors?

Yes, we would. It's a reliable, high‑quality product that performs well in real site conditions and supports long‑term build quality.

All West Fraser panel products produced in the UK are net carbon negative and manufactured in mills that have obtained the environmental ISO 14001 accreditation. Responsibly sourced, the panels are FSC certified and created from locally grown timber, cutting the embodied carbon associated with transportation.