Method

Timber frame construction is based on factory-made structural elements.

The timber framed wall panels carry the loads on the building to the foundations whilst the outer cladding provides decoration and weather protection. Cladding is a matter of choice; it can be brick, stone or lightweight claddings, such as timber boarding, tile hanging or render. The timber frame method of building gives designers flexibility in both layout and external appearance.

High levels of thermal insulation are incorporated within the construction, reducing heating costs and conserving energy.Timber is naturally a strong and durable product. Modern timber frames are treated to provide additional protection against damp and pests. This process can involve a range of chemical and other treatments.Timber frame wall panels are made up of softwood vertical studs and horizontal rails with OSB panel sheathing and plasterboard or dry construction panel lining. The studs carry vertical loads through the structure and transfer them to the foundations. The sheathing provides resistance to lateral wind loads.

Thermal insulation is incorporated in the spaces between the studs of the frame. A breather membrane on the external face of the panels protects the panels during the construction phase and provides secondary protection against any wind-driven rain that may penetrate the completed external cladding. A vapour control layer in the form of polythene sheet is fixed on the 'warm' side of the insulation, behind the plasterboard lining to limit the amount of water vapour entering the wall panel.The ease of incorporating insulation into the timber frame means that the requirements of the building regulations can easily be met and much higher levels can be achieved.

Additional layers of insulation and board materials can be added to provide higher levels of sound insulation, between walls or floors and additional fire protection where required.The choice of floor and roof construction for timber frame is the same as for other building types. Ground floors can be of concrete or timber. Intermediate floors are of timber joists. Roofs are usually trussed rafters, but other types are also available, such as a cut-roof, when a vaulted ceiling is required.

Externally, the cladding is erected as a separate skin, linked to the timber frame studs by timber battens or stainless steel ties depending upon the type of cladding material used. Differential movement is likely to occur between the timber frame and the cladding and our designs make allowance for this.External joinery is fixed into openings in the timber frame, not into the cladding.Roof slates or tiles are fixed to tiling battens, once the roof is complete internal finishes can be completed to the client’s specification the same as in any other form of construction.

Foundations

Option A

Mass concrete trench fill foundation taken down to a depth approved by the Local Authority dependent on ground conditions.
Dense concrete block work on foundations to required height.