Q&A with Phil Nash – Cladding Manager, NTGE on his role as Director of TDCA

NTG Cladding Manager Phil Nash leads our specialist NORclad cladding division. He is also a director of the Timber Decking and Cladding Association (TDCA), the UK advisory body for timber decking and timber cladding industries.
Q What does the TDCA do?
PN The TDCA’s principal objective is to promote awareness of and demand for quality timber decks, associated landscape structures and external timber cladding.
They can assist large commercial contractors and individuals undertaking residential projects. Advice includes the correct specification of materials, installation guidance and ongoing care and maintenance of timber decking and timber cladding.
TDCA runs the CladMark and DeckMark quality assurance schemes, verifying the quality and longevity of products, their suppliers and the high standards of installers.
The association offers several professional services including an independent inspection and report service for anyone experiencing issues with the quality of the materials or workmanship used on timber decking or cladding installations. TDCA also provides an expert witness service when inspection and reports are commissioned by a solicitor acting on behalf of clients.
Q What does being a TDCA director involve?
PN The directors are responsible for the strategic direction of the association, and we are required to attend three meetings through the year in March, July and December.
Q When did you become a director?
PN In March 2024 to stand alongside 10 other directors. Nine of us are representatives from member companies, Janet Sycamore Director of TDCA acts as company secretary and the chairman is Steve Young.
Q What type of companies can join TDCA?
PN There are membership categories for manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, and design and installation (including timber engineering) companies involved in timber decking and cladding. Some companies may not naturally fall into one of the member categories, but they can still apply and a new category may be created.
There is also an approved retailer membership for stockists of DeckMark and CladMark accredited products who are listed on the TDCA website.
Q Why is being a member of the TDCA important?
PN The association listens to the views of its members and together we have the power to contribute and influence the standards that affect the industry. The TDCA also has strategic alliances with The Wood Protection Association (WPA) and Timber Development UK.
The TDCA logo demonstrates that quality and standards matter.
I’m proud to be involved with the TDCA as a director representing National Timber Group and helping to support the industry provide high quality products, taking the whole sector forward.
For more information on the Timber Decking and Cladding Association visit www.tdca.org.uk/