How much does it cost?

This is often the first and, for many, the most important question of all. Obviously it is extremely difficult to give an accurate estimate until all the relevant questions have been answered. The differences between open and closed panel systems reflect in the price, along with the size and type of property required. As MRT Homes tailor make houses to the client’s specification cost can be controlled during the quotation. Different materials can be used for various stages of production such as insulation and roofing slates that can make a large difference to the overall price.

What are the timescales?

Once the architects have finalised the drawings the engineers are then employed. The design needs to be calculated and then the individual panel’s drawings are produced. Depending on the workload of the engineer’s this could take between two to four weeks. Once the factory has the specifications for each panel, manufacturing can commence and delivery of the ground floor could be expected in three to four weeks. The erection of the timber frame package to a dry finish should then take between two to four weeks depending on the size of the property.

How is a timber frame house different from a masonry house?

The difference between timber frame and conventional block and mortar constructions is that the internal leaf of block work is replaced by a timber frame structure. And after the internal plasterboard or fermacell finish the final appearance is no different to its masonry counterpart.

With what can you clad the timber frame? 

The simple answer is anything, so the external appearance will reflect your preference, and will be in harmony with the plot and the design of the building.

Why do you use fermacell as your walling board? 

We use fermacell on all our external and internal wall panels simply because it is a better product than plasterboard. Being denser it has superior thermal and acoustic qualities; it also gives the structure extra strength due to it’s racking resistance capabilities. The strength of the board means that kitchen units, toilets etc. can be fixed to the walls in any position without reference to where the panel studs are located. Using fermacell also eliminates the need for service noggins being installed on site.

Is location a problem? 

Not at all. MRT Homes manufacture in Devon but can deliver and erect anywhere in the UK.

Will I have to pay more insurance with a timber frame house?

Insurance companies generally draw no distinction between modern timber frame houses and brick and block constructions.

How long will the building last?

In Britain timber frame has been used for hundreds of years, you can find many timber frame buildings from the 12th Century that are still around today.

Today’s frames have the added benefit of superior timber, modern preservatives and advanced building practices. So a new timber frame house will last as well as any other new home.

Is a timber frame house at more risk of fires?

Unlike other forms of construction timber frame does not bend at high temperatures, nor does it flake allowing a slow and controlled loss of structural integrity making it a safer home to be in.

How does timber frame construction affect the environment?

There is no more environmentally friendly way to build, timber frame offers a genuinely sustainable method of construction. Unlike tropical forests, Nordic and the UK forests are actually growing in size, despite the increase in timber frame demand.