What we do

encapsulation system
Over many years of experience, we have found that the best way to finish and “watertight” a structure is to fully encapsulate the building. Our full encapsulation service entails the combination of cladded Structural Insulated Panel System (SIPS), direct faced glazing and warm roof build-up.
By encapsulating the structure this way, you reduce the chance of any water ingress due to the natural movement of the timber, and greatly enhance the buildings u-values (heat, air and sound). Please read below for further information on each individual form of encapsulation.

Structurally insulated panel SYSTEm
Insulation is key to reducing high energy bills, since air leakage is the premier reason for heat loss in most houses tested. This is an element we incorporate into our oak frame builds, with the use of our own custom made Structural Insulated Panel System (SIPS).
We have been producing our own custom made SIPS longer than any other oak frame manufacturer in the UK. The SIPS panels are fixed around the outside of our timber frames and control the flow of heat, air and sound.
As a standard, our panels are constructed from 145x47mm C24 softwood studwork, sheathed in OSB3 boarding, wrapped in breathable membrane and counter-battened, ready to receive your chosen external finish. These panels are insulated with 120mm PIR insulation as standard, which allows for a service gap (electrics and plumbing).

cladding
Our frames are compatible with all types of cladding. The oak frame and/or SIPS provide a superstructure on to which you can fix any material you wish, from any number of species of timber, to rendered finishes such as stone or brick.
When it comes to timber cladding – you have a variety of choices and profiles. We generally recommend using the four major types available in the UK – oak, larch, cedar or sweet chestnut. Each can be cut to a desired profile, installed both horizontally and vertically. They are all durable to weathering, and over time will oxidise similarly, giving you a beautiful finish.
As well as leaving your cladding to age and “silver” naturally, there are other options available -including staining, scorching and painting the timber.

oak glu-lam beams
Widely used in the industry as an alternative to steel, due to their structural stability – Laminated Beams (Glu-Lam) are being used more and more as building features themselves. They can span longer lengths then standard timber beams, as they do not move or shake (split/crack), due to the fact we use kiln dried timber, which has a very low moisture content.
Using our own custom-made press, we use a phenol resourcinol adhesive resin to glue 25mm thick kiln dried timbers together, to create a larger beam. This beam can then be traditionally morticed and tenoned, bolted or used like any other timber.
We generally use Glu-Lam beams above bi-fold doors for structural stability, but we have also designed them into more contemporary buildings.