GREEN BUILDING

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Build - Frequently Asked Questions

Build FAQ

Q: My building site is a long way from you. Can you build a timber frame for me even if you are not close by?

A: Yes. Most people will not find a highly qualified timber framer in their location. This is fine because most of the timber framer's work is done in a shop environment, not on site. The ideal situation is to choose a timber framer who is close to a good supply of high quality timber. The timber will take a relatively short trip to the timber frame shop where your frame is constructed, then it will be shipped to your site.

Q: I have some timber on my property, can you use it to build my timber frame?

A: This is a common question and the answer is a qualified ''not usually''. The first thing we need to determine is your motivation for considering this. Are you doing this to save money or for other more sentimental reasons. It is almost never the most economical choice. If trees need to be felled to make room for your house, it is rare that they are of the type, size and quality that will meet the requirements of your timber frame. Even if they are, you'd need to have a portable mill brought in to mill the timbers down or have them transported to and from a mill - driving up the cost. In most cases it would be more cost effective to sell the trees that were felled and use the proceeds to offset the cost of the (different) timber you require for the frame. On the other hand, if you are considering this for sentimental reasons, we think you should take the time to find something you really like in the trees that need to be cleared - we'd love to find some special element and integrate it artistically into your frame. In doing so, we can create a very real connection between your new home and the land as it was before you built.