The speed of the Timber Frame Construction process, energy efficiency and flexibility are three top reasons why timber frame is so popular in the United Kingdom. There are some practical limits that you should know before you start going crazy with a layout, as there are things here and there where it can’t be customised.
What you can customise:
Timber frame kit suppliers have an array of house types to suit which can be easily ‘tweaked’.
Common customisations include:
Room arrangements and movement: shifting internal walls, increasing the size of rooms or including a utility room / larder, for example.
Adaptable layouts: The right structural design allows larger openings in open-plan spaces between kitchen / dining and living areas.
Configuration and size of windows and doors to capture light, take in views or maintain privacy.
External appearance: a timber frame can be tucked behind brick, render or cladding in any design – traditional to ultra modern.
Energy performance upgrade, high level insulation specs, air tightness and solar ready design. For Timber Frame Construction, visit Merlin Timber.
What you shouldn’t (or can’t) change
Timber frame is manufactured off site, so late changes are expensive. The biggest constraints are:
The structural plan: They have to go where the load-bearing walls are and what is below them – key support points – you can’t easily change these without a redesign.
Large glass areas and high or vaulted spaces need to be tackled consciously.
Spanning and big openings: With today’s technology huge glazing (and large over all sizes) can often happen – maybe with steelwork etc but will need the support of extra engineering.
Service routes: plumbing stacks, soil pipes and ventilation runs should be planned for up front.
Limitations of the site: zoning rules, view corridors and north orientation can all restrict what is possible.
How to do it: there are a few schools of thought, but the best approach is deciding your “must-haves” early and asking your designer/manufacturer what you need to lock in structurally before production starts.
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