Timber Framed Houses (Getting a Mortgage) (2024)

FAQs

What is the life expectancy of a timber frame house? ›

With proper construction and maintenance, timber frames can easily surpass 100 years. Many examples worldwide have exceeded 400+ years. What is the shortest lifespan of a timber frame? Lack of maintenance can shorten the lifespan to 25 years or less.

Timber frame homes are strong.

According to the NAHB, timber frame homes typically have a higher fire tolerance, can absorb the impact and flex of strong seismic conditions and can stand up to hurricane- and tornado-force winds better than other construction types.

In estimating the timeframe for timber frame construction, we're including both oak frame and post and beam. Give yourself two weeks for foundation work, as it must be accurate. Frame erection can be as little as 3-4 weeks, depending on the system. Allow for 18-24 weeks for fitting out and finishing.

Price Difference

The main drawback to timber frame structures is the cost. Since each piece of timber needs to be precut exactly to fit, the cost of a timber frame package is more than twice the cost of the framing package of a stud framed structure.

As long as it is kept protected and/or dry, wooden construction can last centuries. I lived in a restored farmhouse in Essex that had 300 year old timbers in its construction that were still ini perfect condition.

The most critical thing we recommend is to make sure you conduct regular check-ups, visually inspecting the wood for any changes. One thing you should watch out for is exposed and faded timbers. As soon as you notice the first sign of fading, it means it's time to reapply stain.

Is timber frame energy efficient? In short, timber frame is one of the most energy efficient methods of construction available today. Modern Building Regulations require all new houses to achieve a proscribed minimum level of energy efficiency and these days the regulations really are quite stringent.

With timber frame construction it is generally the inner leaf timber frame that supports the roof trusses and the floors. Center of the Building The walls directly at the center of many buildings often contains load bearing walls, which help distribute the weight of the structure evenly.

Insulated concrete forms are believed to be one of the strongest house frame options. They are energy efficient, as well as water and disaster-resistant.

How do you estimate timber framing? ›

You can quickly calculate the number of studs you need by multiplying the wall's total length by 0.75, which is the accurate spacing for on-center studs. Add an additional three studs for every 90-degree corner, four for every 45-degree corner, and two for every intersecting wall.

Typically, internal partitions will come in two different thicknesses, with loadbearing walls usually 89mm thick and non-loadbearing partitions either 63mm or 89mm thick. For any house, apartment, or commercial building, the choice will depend on structural requirements and performance preferences.

You may choose between a shallow or deep foundation when starting your timber frame extension project. Shallow foundations like Pad, Strip, and Raft, provide quicker and cost-effective construction. They are more suitable for stable soil conditions and timber frame extensions with relatively low imposed loads.

Timber frame constructions make use of timber studs inside the external structural walls to bear the load of the rest of the building, and transmit this load to the foundations of the building.

Timber is a natural material and may shrink or swell as it has the ability to absorb water. Timber should always be suitably treated depending on its use and exposure, and if left exposed to water rot can lead to loss of quality.