Niall Mc Govern

Student Number: C06575790

Sustainable Design and Build

Project Presentation
Timer Frame Construction
What is Timber Frame Construction?
This method relies on timber frame beams as a means of
structural support for the proposed building.
It is often referred to as lightweight construction.
It is an engineered, quality assured building method that is
the norm in most parts of the developed world.
Over 70% of people in the developed world live in timber
frame housing.
Timber frame is currently the fastest growing method of
construction in Ireland.
3D Model of Timber Frame Structure
Completed Timber Framed Structure
Origins of Timber Frame Construction
Some of the earliest known timber houses in Europe have
been found in Scotland and England dating to Neolithic
times.
It was adopted as a means for rapid construction in
potentially adverse weather conditions.
Timber frame has been around successfully for hundreds
of years, while traditional, brick and block construction
has only been in widespread use since the 1930's.
In terms of strength and durability, timber frame is the
most tried and tested form of construction in the world.
Construction Process of External Walls
During construction, open panel timber frame is covered
internally by plasterboard.
Filled with high performance insulation.
Moisture/vapour barriers are incorporated.
The outer leaf of the wall (typically stone or brickwork)
completes the structure.
The timber frame is supported/attached to the external
wall using stainless steel braces.
Internal Composition of Walls
Construction Process of Internal Walls
Internal wall construction is similar to external wall
construction, with studs at either 400mm or 600mm
centres.
Horizontal beams (noggins) fixed to prevent lateral
buckling.
A damp proof course should be provided to the underside
of all ground floor partitions when sitting on concrete or
blockwork.
Internal partitions are usually lined with 12.5mm
plasterboard, fixed and skimmed.
Internal Application of Timber Frames
3D incorporation of Timber Frame
Advantages of Timber Frame
Incredibly quick construction times, promoting greater
efficiency speeding up project durations.
The panels are manufactured in a factory environment
under strict quality practices and engineering terms.
Can incorporate a large variety of exterior finishes.
The versatility of wood can give great scope for
architectural and engineering design.
It lends itself well to prefabrication and mass-production.
by far the most environmentally friendly way to build.
Environmental Advantages of Timber Frame
Wood is a highly effective insulating material. The average
fuel maintenance cost of a timber frame home is
approximately 40% less than for masonry buildings.
Timber frame is a dry form of construction which avoids
the long drying out period associated with wet construction.
A standard masonry construction needs up to 1500 gallons of
water to evaporate before it is dry.
Wood is an ecologically friendly and renewable resource.
Using it reduces the effect of global warming.
The manufacture of wood products uses less energy than the
manufacture of other man made products.
Disadvantages of Timber Frames
Poor prevention of capillary movement of water within
any exposed timber, leading to eventual creeping and
warping.
Poor acoustic insulation, footsteps and movements in
adjacent rooms easily heard.
Decisions of unit and shelf locations must be made in
design stage in order for placement of studs.
Wood boring insects and pest commonly present in wood
frames.
All wood will eventually rot.
Examples of Wood Rot
Irish Companies in the Business
Kingspan.
Kelly Frame Timber.
Eco Homes.
Cygnum Ltd
S.B.S. Timber Frame Ltd.
J McMahon Timber Frame.
ITEC Homes.
A-Frame.
Century Homes.
Conclusion
Timber frame manufacturing is economically friendly and
cost effective.
Affordable and desirable homes.
Complies with a vision of sustainable development in
Ireland.
Dominates the industry with high levels of profit and
return.
Main disadvantages regard degradation of beams -
frequent preservation advised.