Timber Frame FAQ's Why should I choose Timber Frame?
Unlike masonry construction the insulation in a timber frame home is contained inside the inner leaf ensuring that no heat is lost in the blockwork. Timber frame homes are easy to heat, cosy to live in and can result in savings in heating costs of up to 50%.
As all timber frame components are manufactured under factory controlled conditions prior to delivery on site, the timber frame structural shell can be erected and roofed with felt and tiling battens within days. This allows internal and external trades full access to proceed with their work regardless of the weather. The speed of erection reduces the amount of capital tied up in the work, reduces the interest charges and increases profitability. A house can be fully furnished and ready for occupation in weeks rather than months.
Is Timber Frame more expensive?
The cost of building a Timber Frame house is similar to that of a masonry house, however reduced heating costs make a Timber Frame house warmer to live in and cheaper to heat.
What about fire safety?
Timber Frame houses meet all fire standards required under the current building regulations. Insurance and financial institutions do not differentiate between timber frame and masonry construction.
How do I get a quotation?
Please send a copy of your plans, along with your contact details including day time telephone number to TTFC, Sinnottstown Lane, Drinagh, Wexford. Alternatively you can e-mail an Auto cad file to info@ttfc.ie. We aim to price all houses and return quotations within 5 working days.
Does my home have to be specially designed?
No, we will work directly from your architects plans to create the timber frame design. Timber Frame can be used for the most unusual house designs.
Are there many Timber Frame homes?
Timber Frame has been tried and tested as a form of construction all over the Western World for centuries. Almost all of the two million houses built annually in Scandinavia, North America, and Australia utilise timber frame technology. Over 75% of all houses built in Scotland are of timber frame construction. In Ireland today over 30% of homes built each year are timber framed.
How long before my Timber Frame kit arrives?
On average 6 to 8 weeks from the time you place your order.
How long will it take to erect my timber frame on site?
1 to 2 weeks on average
How do you ensure quality standards?
We have rigorous in house procedures and are members of the NSAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland). Our engineering, design, quality documentation and method of manufacturing are audited by the NSAI on an ongoing basis. We are also members of the Irish Timber Frame Manufacturers Association.
Will timber frame increase or decrease my fuel costs?
Heating costs can reduce by up to 50%.
Doesn’t a timber frame house add to the global problem of deforestation?
The Timber Frame Company only uses timber that originates from sustainable and correctly managed forests.
Is a timber frame home as structurally safe as a masonry home?
Yes, all homes are fully engineered by independent engineers, a copy of the engineering report will be provided to you for your records.
What is the life expectancy of a timber frame house?
Timber Frame and masonry construction are both classed as `Permanent Construction' and have the same life expectancy. Insurance companies, mortgage providers and building societies do not differentiate between timber frame and masonry.
Will timber frame increase/decrease the value of my home?
Auctioneers and estate agents are generally of the opinion that not only is timber frame not an obstacle in selling a home; but, on the contrary, is becoming more and more a major selling point. The energy efficiency of timber frame houses is becoming an increasingly valued characteristic.
Are timber frame houses noisier than concrete houses?
No. Most people's concerns regarding sound transmission relate to impact noise from upstairs to downstairs. This problem exists in any house with timber floor joists, whether it is timber frame or masonry. If you are concerned about noise passing from room to room, it is very cheap and easy to have the walls made more sound efficient than a block wall.
