Niall Mc GovernStudent 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 BusinessKingspan. Kelly Frame Timber.Eco Homes.Cygnum LtdS.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.