FAQs

• Q: Why should I choose a timber-framed structure rather than one built entirely of bricks and blocks?
  A: Because when it is erected you will enjoy a fully engineered structure that has been designed to properly transmit all loads to foundations, is manufactured under controlled conditions, can be easily insulated to comply with current thermal regulations, clad outside to fit in with most settings and finished inside to suit varying individual tastes. Moreover, you will be contributing to a global effort to build in a sustainable way and in doing so you will help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions that are so harmful to our environment. The reasons why you should build using Timber frame are ever-growing. Likewise, the reasons why you should not be building entirely with masonry are increasing!
  
  
• Q: Why are the numbers of timber-framed structures built in the UK increasing?
  A: As stated above, timber frame structures are encouraged by virtually everybody these days because they provide positive solutions to environmental issues raised when using other so called 'traditional' materials and building techniques. They are also easier to insulate and are less demanding on scarce site skills. In other parts of the developed world, timber frame is the primary method of low rise building and has been for many years. So, in truth the UK is not a pioneer, but is really only adopting a tried and tested method of construction albeit that certain aspects have been adapted to suit our climate and customs. We have seen how it is done in the States, in Canada, in Scandinavia and elsewhere and learnt from their expertise and in many cases their materials are used in our factory.
  
  
• Q: Are timber-framed structures more or less expensive than masonry equivalents?
  A: In truth, they are about the same, but the move toward greater use of timber frame has more to do with the above points than anything to do with being cheaper. As with most things, you get what you pay for, and you will not get a Rolls Royce for a Mini price. However, you will get valuable advice so that you can ensure you do obtain good value for money.
  
  
• Q: Are timber-framed structures quick to build?
  A: Experience has shown that many so-called building programmes suffer from regular 'non activity' days when any given building is waiting for the next component to arrive or tradesman to appear. Masonry structures, in particular, are often affected by poor weather conditions when it is too wet, too cold or too hot to progress the work. With timber frame construction, the effects of the latter are not usually critical to the overall programme period and providing delivery of components is planned in advance, it is easier to pre-book tradesmen knowing that preceding programme dates are likely to be achieved. So, the honest answer to the question is 'given proper contract administration, timber frame presents the opportunity to build efficiently and effectively, and on occasions, more quickly'.
  
  
• Q: Is it true that timber-framed structures last as long as masonry built ones?
  A: As with any method of construction, it is essential that certain operations and details are done properly. Given that a good standard of work is achieved, there is no reason to suppose that the life span of a timber-framed structure is any less than say masonry or steel framed equivalents.
  
  
• Q: Will I be able to raise finance for a timber-framed building?
  A: Now that this method of construction is used more and more and surveyors and lenders see for themselves that it really does offer an alternative to other building forms, there should be no block to finance on the grounds of 'non-traditional construction'.
  
  
• Q: Do timber-framed structures represent a greater fire risk than other methods of building?
  A: Building regulations stipulate that all buildings meet prescribed levels of 'fire resistance' dependant on use and design. Timber frame structures are not singled out as presenting any more or less risk. Indeed, in the event of fire, timber normally retains its structural integrity longer than many other alternative materials. However, exposed faces of timber are usually covered with plasterboard to provide the required fire resistance period.
  
  
• Q: Are proper foundations required for timber-framed structures?
  A: Yes, they most certainly are. When considering domestic low-rise buildings, Building Regulation compliance and the need to avoid differential movement usually means that there is little to choose between substructures for timber frame buildings and masonry types. Clearly, there will be less dead load with timber frame and that may have an effect on specialist foundation designs (should they be required), but in general terms there will be no appreciable difference.
  
  
• Q: Are there any limitations for timber framed structures?
  A: Generally not, but it may be necessary to 'adapt' some existing architectural designs to suit. For example, in some instances glulam beams and/or steel beams and columns are introduced as an integral part of an engineered structure and sometimes cladding detailing may be a little tricky. However, there are a few basic ground rules that are quickly mastered and then opportunities for all sorts of building design are open to all.
  
  
• Q: Can I extend a timber-framed structure?
  A: Yes you can, usually very easily, providing proper engineering advice is obtained beforehand. What you can not do is to take a saw and merrily cut away timbers to form, say, a new door or window opening. Bear in mind that the existing timber-framed structure was specifically engineered and you may just be cutting away a critical load-bearing member.

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