How Does a Structural Timber Package Work?

Timber frame has long been a popular system for self builders, due to its speed of build, quality, and thermal and environmental benefits. Plus, it offers a complete build solution – providing all the walls, floors and roof with one engineer and one point of contact. This gives programme certainty and budget control, which is key in the current market, as it avoids the risk of cost overrun.

Every structural timber project is bespoke and developed to the client’s requirements, so self builders have full control over the design. One of the main advantages of building in timber is its ease of construction. Timber frame systems are factory-made, which speeds up construction on site, reducing project overheads and improving overall build standards.

For those with an eye on eco considerations, wood is the only naturally renewable building material.  Plus, using timber helps to ensure the building has an airtight envelope, meaning that heat doesn’t escape; which has the twin advantages of helping the environment while also lowering heating bills.

Engage a Supplier at the Structural Design Phase

Here at Frame Technologies, we always recommend getting in touch as early in the project as possible. When we’re involved from the start, we can do so much more than supply and manufacture the timber frame. We can assist with the design to ensure that clients don’t need to compromise on their dream home; we can help with meeting Building Regulations; and we can offer advice on planning challenges.

Not all architects are experienced with timber frame. If we’re involved early on, we can assist with specialist questions and ensure the design works on site. This means the self builder is not wasting precious time, effort and money on detailed design that may need to be done over again when a timber frame manufacturer is on board. With early engagement, the system provider can value engineer the home, bringing in efficiencies and cost savings from the start.

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Featuring the TechVantage T timber frame system from Frame Technologies, The Cedar House is a striking, low-energy home in the Suffolk countryside. It was crowned Best Self Build Project at the 2023 Build It Awards

We deal with the full design, structural and thermal calculations – including SAP calculations and Part O assessment for overheating. We also steer self builders through the renewable strategy, which we need to incorporate into our design, and support with window and door options to realise a high-quality, secure house shell.

What’s Included in a Timber Frame Kit?

This varies depending on the timber frame supplier the self builder chooses, but typically includes all the walls, floors and roof, along with the structural steelwork. Timber frame manufacturers are getting more involved with design, insulation packages, windows and doors, and even foundations.

By joining multiple aspects of the build together, it’s possible to ensure that everything works in harmony. This can offer significant benefits, as it helps the self builder get better value and cost certainty, as well as improved quality and thermal performance.

A typical timber system from Frame Technologies would include the engineering design, insulated walls, roof, floors and structural steelwork – plus assembly by specialist installers

Who Will Assemble the House Shell?

Most timber frame specialists offer both supply-and-install and supply-only packages. So, while we usually project manage the erection of the timber frame and install it, if the self builder is particularly hands-on and would like to do it themselves, we offer support and guidance to help with the construction.

Note that supply-only can add cashflow challenges. This is because we’ll be providing you with just the materials, rather than both the product and the labour required to assemble it. As a result, you’ll need to pay VAT upfront and then reclaim it at the end via the DIY housebuilders scheme. Warranty providers may want to know you’re using an experienced installer, too.

Once the house shell is complete, a good timber system supplier will provide aftercare and technical support wherever needed. We work with self builders from preliminary drawings, right through to completion of the house – and beyond.