Planning Your Self-Build Timber Frame Home: Key Considerations
Planning Your Self-Build Timber Frame Home: Key Considerations
When embarking on a self-build timber frame project, there are several crucial factors to keep in mind. Here’s what you should consider as you plan your new home:
Budget and Financing
Establish a realistic budget for your project. Timber frame construction is very cost-effective, with self-built timber frame homes potentially costing between £30,000 and £45,000 for simple builds. However, be prepared for further costs in addition to the timber frame structure and plan accordingly. Consider the elements outside of the main timber frame kit . the building works and materials that will be required to complete your home. Vision’s cost calculator is a very helpful tool in planning for the overall costs of constructing your own home.
Design and Planning
Work with an architect to create a design that suits your needs and complies with local building regulations. Consider the following aspects:
- Customisation: Timber frame homes offer great flexibility in design, allowing you to create a unique and personalised living space.
- Energy efficiency: To maximise energy efficiency, incorporate high-quality insulating materials and consider wood’s natural insulating properties.
- Aesthetics: Decide whether you want to highlight timber’s natural beauty or combine it with other elements like stonework and glass.
- Prefab Considerations: Speak with your chosen prefabricated home company to discuss your initial designs. They will provide invaluable insight into what considerations need to be made when finalising plans to ensure a smooth process once your new home is in production.
Construction Process
Understand the timber frame construction process:
- Design and planning: Finalise your home’s design and obtain the necessary approvals.
- Manufacturing: Timber frames are precision-cut and assembled into panels in a factory setting once you have approved the final fabrication drawings in line with your initial design.
- Site preparation: Prepare your building site while the frames are being manufactured.
- Delivery and assembly: The prefabricated panels are delivered and quickly assembled on-site. <?
You can see some of the timber frame homes and extensions we have installed on our YouTube Channel. We have videoed the entire process, giving an insight into how our timber frame kits are assembled.
Choosing a Contractor
Selecting a reputable contractor with experience in timber frame construction can greatly benefit your project. A contractor who is familiar with the unique aspects of timber frame building and is willing to collaborate with your timber frame supplier will help ensure that your new home is constructed smoothly and efficiently.
Vision works closely with trusted and experienced trades and businesses. Together with our timber frame kits, we offer a complete build package to bring your new home to the finished stage of your choice.
Here are some of the new homes we have completed where you can see the quality of the finishes and workmanship.
Abbey View – Chapel Row, Bucklebury
Prefabricated timber frame home installed in 8 days, achieving an EPC rating of A (92 out of 100 score in efficiency).
The Bridles, Whitehouse Road, Woodcote
Beautiful 4-bedroom family home with a detached two-bay garage and office space in the roof. Vision’s open panel timber frame system and rigid PIR insulation give the external walls a U Value of 0.18.
Beautiful New Timber Home In Berkshire
An energy-efficient modern timber frame home built by Vision includes an air source heat pump, MVHR, and additional insulation layers to reduce cold bridging.
By carefully considering the above factors when planning your self-build timber frame home, you’ll be well prepared to embark on your self-build journey, creating an energy-efficient, sustainable, and personalised home that meets your needs and preferences.
