Energy efficient frames

Many self-builders are opting to have their home built to the standards required for Passiv Haus accreditation or similar. Our experience over the last twenty years has given us a reputation for knowledge and expertise within this specialised field. We fully understand all the precise requirements for minimising thermal bridging and managing air tightness.

Often, self-builders will come to us because their project is either complex, awkward or on a small or inaccessible site. In these circumstances a ‘stick-built’ solution is possibly the only option, and we have considerable experience in responding to this challenge.

Design and detailing

We can:

work within an existing set of design and detailing principles
support a manufacturer in developing new protocols that respond to its requirements and manufacturing capability
work with either engineered I beams (Steico, James Jones and Masonite) or a 'Larsson Truss' system
create cost efficient designs that offer our clients the best value in terms of materials and process
manage hybrid solutions that combine glulam beams, structural steel and green oak elements
design closed panels for manufacture, including service cavities, cable ducting and pipework
detail open or closed floor and roof cassettes
supply lists of all metal fixtures that are required for frame erection

We can

work with environmentally conscious architects and builders, sharing a common language, motivation and goal
promote the use of ecofriendly build materials at every possible opportunity within the design process
design frames with the minimal use of steel, exploring all possible structural options through close liaison with likeminded structural engineers
create a design that values the minute details that help eliminate the risk of air leaks and thermal bridging
design with carbon footprint in mind, in terms of the transportation of materials to site
supply comprehensive lists of all metal fixtures that are required for frame erection, e.g. hangers, connectors, nuts, bolts and screws

Design management

Whitford

This is a single storey home which utilises the 'Larsson Truss' system of timber frame which employs two stud elements separated by ply or OSB gussets.

Mid Farm

This project which utilised an interesting combination of engineered timber I beams along with some structural Douglas Fir elements outside of the thermal envelope

Taylor

An example of a 'balloon' frame in which the studs span from the sole plate to the eaves / verge in one length. The floor joists of these frames then hang from a ledger screwed to the inside flange of the I beams stud. These frames can be quicker to erect and offer better thermal performance.

Winmill

This project combined primary glulam structure - including some curved roof elements - along with I beam studs, floor joists and purlins