Timber frames are subject to the same building regulations as any form of construction. Fire needs to be taken into consideration with all forms of construction, but timber frame has a proven track record of safety. If correctly detailed and built in-line with the building regulations, timber frames are a very safe method of construction.
Timber frames are robustly tested, designed and constructed to meet and surpass the Building Regulation requirements for fire safety. The structure will always incorporate an element of plasterboard or similar to reduce fire spread and may also include further elements depending on project specifics. We can provide support and guidance on how to meet and exceed the requirements.
Studies say that timber frame projects can be cheaper and faster to build than masonry builds; this is especially true as the availability of labour and materials affects construction sites. This will not be the case on every project though. On the plus side, by being watertight faster and removing trades from the critical path, timber frame buildings should be completed quicker and with more programme certainty than masonry construction. This then should lead to reduced prelims and quicker return on capital employed. However, there are likely to be larger initial capital requirements for timber frame. The answer will vary depending on the details of the project.
Yes. Studies have shown that timber frames allow for higher levels of insulation in the walls and better airtightness than masonry construction. Read our blog for more information: https://www.pinewood-structures.co.uk/how-timber-frame-homes-can-be-more-efficient/
Yes! Timber frames contain less embodied carbon and even capture carbon as part of their manufacturing process. Our timber is sustainably sourced, which not only means that trees that are cut down are replanted, but also considers social, ecological and economic viability. Pinewood Structures go above and beyond and are developing a carbon business plan to align our carbon goals with our business plan.
All UK buildings are designed with a minimum design life of 60 years. In reality, our structures will well outlast this.
We include all external walls, internal partitions, joists, trusses and breather membrane to our kits. We also include any structure to support our timber frame, plus can pre-insulate panels or supply our advanced closed panel solutions.
Typical lead times are around 12 weeks from order to delivery – this allows for design and manufacture and can be shortened or lengthened to suit your specific project requirements.
Panels are prefabricated in a factory environment and delivered across the country from our central location. We use a crane to erect all of our structures, offloading the wall panels, then joisted floor cassettes and then first floor walls and roof structure – either trusses or our One-Roof product. We can complete our works within a day or two, meaning your build is then weather protected to start working inside and outside once the roof is on.
Warranties for our structures are provided via third party warranty providers employed by our clients. We strictly adhere to building control and warranty provider’s detailing requirements, and this is backed up by our NHBC Approved systems, STA Gold certification and ISO9001 certification.
Most Premier Inns in the UK are built out of timber frame; many school buildings are timber structures; timber frames are often used for student accommodation and retirement living. Timber frame is a great solution for a number of different schemes and we can advise if it’s the right choice for your scheme.
We have directly employed Project Managers who monitor our QA process to make sure that the structure that we hand over is to your requirements. In addition, we have key account managers and designers who stay with you throughout the process, including once we get to site.
Yes, we provide comprehensive design support all the way through from feasibility stage to construction. We can offer detailing advice, loading information, support on standard housetypes and design services for bespoke design through our experienced team of designers.
With over 40 years’ experience of working in a fast moving industry, we understand that change happens. It’s important with offsite construction that as much time is spent getting it right offsite before you start onsite, so the more time that can be spent working on design, all the way through from initial feasibility, the better. Having said that we can adapt as the design process goes along and do have the flexibility to alter things after the initial designs are complete.
Yes. Almost 30% of new homes built in the UK are timber frame, with many of the leading housebuilders either specifying timber frame construction or indeed owning timber frame manufacturing facilities! There has never been a better time to specify timber frame for housing.
