Timber Frame Cost

From the very beginning when we started Frame Build UK the question that was always first from any potential customer, architect, contractor or housing provider was – How much does it cost to build a house using Timber Frame.  The answer that is always given by the industry is a pause a suck through ones teeth and a muttering of well it depends, how long is a piece of string, every project is different!! 

Well after well over a decade designing manufacturing and installing Timber Frame houses we are very well qualified to answer the question but have all the reservations and teeth sucking that we have mentioned!

So here goes !!

If we look to break down Timber Frame houses into 3 categories to help provide some context that will allow us to provide a broad scope for the cost. The categories will be:

• Simple structures with limited glazing and no feature windows and the building stacks storey to storey.
• Mid range efficient architecturally designed homes with some feature windows but stacking storeys and maybe a couple of architectural features.
• Architecturally complex structures with cantilevers and large amounts of additional structure.

The images here show a representative house for each category. We have completed simply designed projects that produced amazing homes along with many more technically complex projects that have created truly amazing spaces.

Years worth of our data has been drawn from to make these comparison prices and we believe that they are a true reflection of costs. They are however, only to be used as a guide and the adage of every project is different really does ring true!

For all prices we have included for the design, engineering, manufacture and installation on site of the system. This includes Timber Frame external walls and roof, all internal walls – load bearing and non load bearing, intermediate floors and floor decking and all additional structure required such as steel / glulam for the frame. Cranage is also included.

At this point we have to draw your attention to the fact that not all systems are built equal and not all estimates cover the same items click link for further help and guidance on this issue please see our post on making sure you are getting what you think you are paying for.

Using the above as a starting point we would expect to see a 200m2 house (approximately 7m wide x 7m deep x 2 stories) as follows:

1) Simple Structures – £35,000 -£40,000
2) Mid Range – £40,000 – £45,000
3) Architecturally Complex – £45,000 +

The costs provided are totally indicative and should be used informatively and not part of any detailed budgeting process. How long is a piece of string comes to mind!!!
We do hope however that this helps to provide a picture of what can be achieved with our structures within different budget ranges.

(Please note: Images are used for illustration purposes only).

If you have any questions or plans that you would like costing please click here