Timber Frame Structure Explained

Energy Efficient Homes Ireland provide a complete timber frame home building service to the environmentally aware self build customer and developer.

Timber Frame is a tried and tested construction method which uses a timber framework as a means of structural support. All our “Forever Warm” kits are built in the factory under strict quality control conditions and delivered directly to your site for construction and have all the necessary quality control approvals; i.e. NSAI, UKTFA, ITFMA & TRADA.

The main difference between traditional build and timber frame is that the inner shell is made from timber. Exterior walls are built from traditional materials i.e. brick or block.

A Typical Timber Frame Wall

• A) Plasterboard: an internal layer of plasterboard has excellent fire resistance and provides a smooth crack free surface for immediate decoration.
• B) Vapour Check: prevents moisture from within the house (steam from kitchens and bathrooms etc) reaching the insulation and timber structure.
• C) Structural Timber: the timber framed studs, normally 140mm deep x 38mm wide are usually at 600 centres, but in some cases may be 400 centres. The stud size depth may be increased to give a better thermal value (up to 220mm deep).
• D) Thermal Insulation: there are various non combustible products which may be used such as mineral wool, cellulose, hemp. sheep wool etc. The stud sizes can be increased to accommodate more insulation (up to 220mm deep).
• E) Sheathing Board: this board can be OSB (oriental strand board) or plywood. This strengthens the wall panel and supports the breather membrane.
• F) Breather Membrane: this is a water proof membrane fitted to the sheathing board outer frame keeping out moisture which may penetrate the porous concrete blocks or bricks but still allows air through for timbers to breathe.
• G) Wall Tiles: the timber frame is the main structure which supports the roof and the outer layer of block or brick is supported by the timber frame by fitting the stainless steel wall ties. They are flexible to allow for differential movement.
• H) Cavity: this is a clear 50mm wall cavity which provides a complete separation of the external wall from the highly insulated inside wall and helps prevent any moisture which may penetrate the porous bricks/blocks reaching the inside of the structure. This cavity must be drained and vented.
• I) Outer Cladding: the external cladding can be of many materials; most common are brick or rendered block work and is simply a protection for the timber frame. In many other countries Upvc, aluminium or timber are used.

Why Choose Timber Frame

• Energy Efficient
  Energy efficiency is now an important design concept for all new buildings. A vital element to achieving a high energy rated home is the use of a timber frame kit instead of traditional build. Research has shown that a traditional build takes 7 times longer to raise the temperature compared to timber frame, which needs less oil/electricity resulting in considerable savings year after year for the home owner or tenant. Legislation on Energy Rating Certificates in all of Ireland dictates that all houses being built and sold must have an energy rated certificate. As a result it is likely that a highly insulated timber frame home supplied by Energy Efficient Homes Ireland will have a higher resale value in the future compared to traditional built houses.
   
• Speed of Build
  It takes half the time to build a timber frame house compared to a traditional build.
  Saving you time and money during construction. In ideal conditions a timber frame house can be wind and watertight within 5 days allowing immediate access for other tradesmen. There is no drying out period with timber frame so internal decoration can be done immediately with no risk of cracking. (See below - 'Construction Sequence')
   
• Design Flexibility
  Building a timber frame home allows you a greater degree of flexibility both internally and externally. You can include many features not available in a traditional build.
   
• Environmentally Friendly
  We are all becoming more aware of damage to our environment. The use of the term carbon footprint is now part of everyday conversation. A timber frame home uses 20% less energy than other construction materials to bring it to the finished state. Timber is the ultimate green construction material and there is an almost unlimited supply. Timber frame has the lowest CO2 cost of any available building material. There is no more environmentally way to build. For every tree harvested at least two are planted to ensure future preservation of our most valuable environmentally friendly asset - our trees.

Timber Frame Homes - Construction Sequences

Average building time can be substantially reduced using Modern Timber Framed Homes with significant reduction of on site labour.

We will be delighted to be given the opportunity to meet with you to discuss further the wide range of products and services supplied by Energy Efficient Homes. Feel free to contact us today!