Question 1

Is timber frame more environmentally friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Timber frame has the lowest CO2 cost of any commercial build method and we, ensure all of our timbers are sourced from sustainable forests which carry the FSC or PEFC accreditations.

Question 2

Does timber frame carry a higher fire risk?

Accepted Answer

Definitely not. Timber frame homes meet the same fire regulation standards required under UK building regulations. There is no difference in fire risk to a timber framed home to that of a traditional brick and block build.

Question 3

Is timber frame more expensive than a traditional masonry build?

Accepted Answer

Studies show that timber frame construction can be a more cost effective and faster way to build a house than masonry. This is not the case for every type of construction project, however, one of the benefits of choosing timber frame is that the build can be made watertight faster, allowing the follow on trades to complete their tasks in a more timely manner. With that in mind, it should reduce the overall build time and also allow for a quicker return on capital investment.

Question 4

Can you get a mortgage on timber frame buildings?

Accepted Answer

Yes of course you can. Approx. 30% of the UK’s new build homes are produced using timber frame.

Many of the leading house builders are now turning to timber frame due to the speed of construction and lower costs involved.

Question 5

Can you confirm the services you cover?

Accepted Answer

We offer the following services:

Site specific quotation to match your architectural drawings.
Design and engineering which includes the finalised construction drawings.
Off site fabrication of the panel to match the construction approved drawings.
Delivery of timber frame components to site.
Site installation.
Manufacture only.
Supply and delivery only.

Question 6

As the client, which services do we need to source?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your project, you will need to source all or some of the following trades/services:

Architect
Planning permission
Building Regulations
Groundworks
Plumbers
Electricians
Windows & doors fitters
Second fix carpenters
Plasterers/floor screeders
External finishes
Roofers
Decorators

Question 7

Do you use treated timbers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All of our CLS timbers are Vac-Vac treated. First, a vacuum is used to extract air from the timber. Once the air has been extracted, preservative is introduced and absorbed into the surface.

Following this, a second vacuum is used to remove the excess preservative, giving the treatment its Vac-Vac title.

Question 8

Do you provide an installation service?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do. We have qualified contractors who undertake all our installation requirements

Question 9

What is a typical external wall panel insulated with?

Accepted Answer

The insulation required will be selected by your architect. As a general rule, however, we use 120mm PIR within our external wall panels.

Whatever your design, we will work with your architect to ensure your project achieves the specified U-Values.

Question 10

Do you charge VAT?

Accepted Answer

All new build properties are ZERO-rated and therefore VAT is not charged. As long we are supplying AND installing the timber frame then we will not be charging you VAT.

VAT is payable when we are ONLY supplying the timber frame. VAT is also chargeable on home extensions and commercial buildings.

For more information regarding VAT, please contact the HMRC directly.

FAQs