Benefits of Timber Frame for Housing Associations

Timber Frame answers all these needs.

Q: Does Timber Frame offer savings?

A: Yes. With the right management systems, overall costs will be lower than using brick and block. And lifetime costs will be lower thanks to lower heating bills and reduced maintenance.

Q: Is fire an issue?

A: No. Timber Frame meets all current building regulations. Furthermore, independent tests have shown timber outperforms other structural materials like steel or concrete in fire; instead of a tendency to buckle and collapse, timber chars predictably, allowing a slow and controlled loss of structural integrity.

Q: Will there be mortgage problems?

A: No. But don’t just take our word for it. Patrick Sawdon, Head of Professional Services at the Halifax Valuation and Surveying Services said: “Halifax takes the view that properly constructed Timber Frame housing with a suitable external cladding is equally as good as housing which is built in brick or block and we make no differentiation in the lending terms offered on either form of construction.”

Q: Are Timber Frame buildings quiet?

A: Yes. They conform to or exceed current Building Regulations. BRE stated: “If all dwellings had sound insulation as good as that measured in party walls of timber frame dwellings, the problems of noise from neighbours would be greatly reduced.”

Q: Are guarantees or insurance a problem?

A: No. Timber Frame construction is recognised by the NHBC and Zurich Municipal for guarantee purposes. Steve Birt of the Association of British Insurers says: “Insurance companies generally draw no distinction between modern Timber Frame and brick and block construction, provided the external roof covering is also of tiles, natural or mineral slates or concrete.”

Q: Will your customers be happy?

A: Yes. Their Timber Frame home will look like any other. But it will be warmer, with reduced bills, and lower maintenance.