Wood is a popular medium for building homes the world over, and in the current climate with more and more people looking to improve their current home over moving to another, extensions built from wood are on the increase. If you’re considering extending your home, let us bust some myths about timber frames.
Wood Is A Fire Risk
This is often the reason people do not choose a timber framed extension, with a very comprehensive set of building regulations and requirements to be met from any building. Before wood can be used to build homes, it is treated to make it resistant to flames. As a result, tests show that treated wood stands up to fire with similar results to steel or concrete.
Timber Frames Are Expensive
Not necessarily. The price of wood varies, as does the price of any other building material. Basic wood might be slightly more expensive than basic brick, but people considering an extension aren’t necessarily looking for the cheapest option. A timber framed extension can become a feature in its own right, just like glazed walls. Choose a contractor who has experience using timber frames and who will be able to advise you so you get the best value on your project.
Timber Isn’t Strong Enough
Depending on the type of wood you choose, timber is most definitely strong enough to use in housebuilding. Some wood is every bit as strong as steel or stone. Wood also has the advantage of being treatable to enhance its strength or other features. Drying it out, for example, makes it more durable and lessens the likelihood of warping. It also lasts a long time because it can be repaired over and over.
Wood Isn’t Good Enough At Soundproofing
This is another myth where building regulations can ease your worries. There are minimum requirements that any wood frame has to meet, so you can be sure that noise will not be shared with neighbours. An architect will be able to advise further on making the most of your sound-proofing.
If you are considering an extension to your home and a timber frame could be a contender, it is worth doing some further research with local contractors to make sure it is the right fit for what you want from your project. Many will offer a free, no-obligation consultation.