DESIGN & BUILD STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS
There are strong pros for all the construction methods available to self builders, so how can you decide which one is right for your home project?
Above: Closed panel timber frames having insulation fitted in the Dan-Wood factory (
www.danwood.co.uk)
The structural method you use to build your home will be innately bound up with the package supplier you choose, as well as the style of architecture and efficiency goals you’d like to achieve, amongst other key elements. Perhaps you’ve found a company that you’d like to work with. If so, that’s likely to steer your choice on structural system. Otherwise, the key questions to ask yourself are:
Do you want a quick build time on site? Most package construction methods involve offsite manufacture, but there are varying degrees of how much of the house is created in the factory. Note, the more work done offsite, the quicker and more cost-certain the build will be.
What is your budget? Different systems and suppliers will come in at different price points. It could be more affordable for more work to be completed on site with you overseeing, but recognise how much of your time will be needed. Plus, some systems are more of a premium product – oak frame certainly has this reputation, but there are ways to build with this characterful method on a tight budget, so don’t write it off yet if money is tight.