Timber Framed Houses

Since we started in timber frame 25 years ago, we have seen many changes in the construction industry, but never more so than in the last few years. New developments aim to address environmental issues such as carbon dioxide emissions and water use. High energy ratings can be achieved by incorporating measures to increase efficiency, for example solar panels, ground and air source heat pumps or rainwater harvesting systems, to name a few.

1. Construction time - the main time-saving element is off-site construction, the manufacture of the timber frame kit at our workshop. This takes as little as 1 – 2 weeks because we have the facilities needed for fast production. Another advantage of the off-site construction is the reduced noise and pollution which benefits the area surrounding the building site and keeps the neighbours happy, too.
2. Insulation – timber, as opposed to brick, is a material with naturally insulating properties and is a popular choice for those conscious of rising heating costs.
3. Flexibility of design - timber frame designs are easy to modify during construction, e.g. changing of room sizes, window sizes, and extensions are easier to add as well. All you do is tell Ffosaron what changes you would like to make and our architect will have an amended design ready to view by email. If the changes require the approval of the planning department, we will take care of it.
4. Eco-friendly - Converting timber into a useable building material takes far less energy and creates a lot less pollution than materials such as steel, concrete and brick. Concrete, for example, uses 5 times more energy to produce than timber. Waste wood can be easily recycled. We have a chain of custody on 80% of our products which means that you could trace the history of the timber used from supplier over manufacture back to where it was sourced. Also, we use timber from sustainable forestry, meaning every tree used for timber is replaced with seedlings that grow into mature trees.

So you have decided on a building method and have a rough idea of what your new home should be like. But where do you go from here? At Ffosaron, we offer a full design and planning service which means a rough idea is all you have to bring to the table and we will do the rest. Our architectural designers will put your needs on paper and will “tweak” things to suit you whilst making sure that it complies with regulations. We will submit your plans to the local planning authority for you and deal with any queries they might have.