The ultimate guide to TIMBER FRAME
One of the most important decisions a self-builder must make is choosing the build system for their new home. Anyone visiting one of the Homebuilding & Renovating Shows (online or at an event) will soon figure out there’s lots to choose from. Common options include masonry, insulated concrete formwork (ICF), structural insulated panels (SIPs) and timber frame.
Building systems are very important. They should provide architectural freedom, set the building performance, and underpin everything from build budgets to how quickly you want to move in. If you want your project to deliver on all these fronts, it’s essential you understand the benefits each option will provide.
One of the most popular options is timber frame with around two thirds of all self-builders opting for some form of timber construction. The popularity is driven by the system’s speed, flexibility and energy efficiency. As a manufacturer of timber building systems and chair of the Structural Timber Association you’d probably expect me to side with this majority in saying that timber is great. Well, I’m not going to disappoint but read on and I’ll explain why.
What is timber frame?
In simple terms, a timber frame building uses timber studs within the external structural wall to carry the loads imposed before transmitting them to the foundations. Timber frame buildings include the walls, floors and roofs, which are designed as
