10 Ways to Stay on Budget with a Timber Frame

Timber framing is a fabulous way to construct a bespoke new house.

It is sympathetic, renewable and beautiful– and will deliver a warm, sustainable and efficient environment. I should know; I used to work in timber frame!

It’s not right for everyone and there are still some prejudices about acoustics and vibration. This being said, timber framing is quick, efficient and a great option for self builders.

Read more: The Pros and Cons of Building with Timber

The market is awash with supplier options, so selecting a firm can be confusing and many of us don’t have the time to deconstruct the process.

However, if you’re keen to save money all the way through your timber build, here are my top tips.

1. Think carefully about design routes

Some timber frame manufacturers offer architectural services, with varying degrees of flexibility.

It can be a tempting option. They’ll know their system inside and out, plus it’s often very well priced. So it will suit those of you who have already decided on a supplier based on their reputation, location etc.

One of the best ways to save could be to engage separate architectural services in design, planning and Building Regulations phases.

Doing things this way will enable you to search the market when you are ready. It also mean you will not be obliged to hire a frame manufacturer because they’ve provided the initial design services.

Copyright usually vests with the designer, so there could be restrictions should want to go elsewhere at a later stage.

2. Show key dimensions on drawings

A common mistake with prefab projects can be a disconnect between the factory-made superstructure and the foundations constructed in-situ.

To avoid communication breakdown, your designer should identify the external wall dimensions on the approved planning drawings (including floor plans and elevations).

This will inform the developed technical drawings. The ground floor plan is key, as this represents the footprint of the house and the setting out positions of the frame, cavity and the external cladding materials.

One thing that commonly causes errors is the use of a brick plinth externally.  This will widen the footprint of the wall and affect where it sits on the foundation. So, keep control and – if you’re using an external designer – supply this information to the timber frame company with good, clear drawings as part of your brief.

3. Get the window & door details right

It’s important that the apertures for all your home’s fenestration are clearly identified on the approved planning drawings. This should include the structural opening size required within the timber frame panels and their specific locations (such as how high they sit above finished floor level and where they are in relation to other internal walls).

This is your opportunity to get the position of the windows and doors exactly as you want in each room. Make sure there’s no ambiguity for the frame manufacturer. The window and door supplier will then size its windows specifically to the structural openings created.

Unless you’re buying the units as part of a package with the house shell, you’ll need to agree fixing, insulation and weathering details within panels and/or cavities with the fenestration supplier. There are no standard details here, so clarity is vital.

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