At 2nd Dawn, we place a strong emphasis on timber frame construction as a sustainable alternative to traditional brick and mortar. Timber is a renewable resource with a lower carbon footprint due to its energy-efficient production process. Aside from the sustainability benefits, there are many other factors that make timber a superior choice for building your home.
Keep reading to discover the advantages of using timber over brick in your home, and learn about debunked myths.
Benefits of timber homes
Insulation and energy efficiency
Timber homes offer superior insulation, leading to lower energy costs. With electricity prices projected to rise by around 16% over the next five years, energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important.
Ease of construction and time efficiency
An important factor to consider when building a new home is that it takes time to build; the longer the time, the more money you spend. A timber frame home can take between 14-16 weeks, depending on the size, whereas a full masonry construction can take up to 30 weeks or more.
They are also easier to modify or expand, providing flexibility for future changes.
Cost-Effectiveness
Timber frames are lighter than double brick structures, requiring less concrete and steel for footings. This reduces construction time and on-site costs for services and utilities.
Natural home feel
Many choose timber homes for their natural aesthetic, blending seamlessly into their environment.
Ideal for difficult sites
Timber's lightweight nature makes it ideal for challenging sites that may be hard to access.
Higher floor area ratio
Timber frames have narrower walls compared to masonry, providing more floor area, which is advantageous for smaller sites.
Cost-Saving benefits
Timber frames offer cost savings through lighter construction, faster completion times, and overall affordability compared to full masonry construction. Implementing a timber frame is substantially lighter than a double brick structure; no large footings are required. This means less concrete and reinforcing steel and less time on-site for administration, amenities, and utilities.
Common misconceptions about using timber
"Timber contributes to deforestation."
Sustainable timber practices involve replanting and responsible forest management, ensuring a renewable supply. At 2nd Dawn, we prioritise sustainable timber construction, supporting eco-friendly practices that protect our forests while building beautiful homes.
“Timber homes are more likely to catch on fire.”
Our timber frame homes built to BAL 40 standards are highly fire-resistant, outlasting brick homes in such conditions.
“Termites will eat a timber home.”
Although that may have been true in the 60’s, advanced technologies and systems provide physical and chemical barriers against termites, ensuring 100% protection.
We use a product made by Termico called Home Guard. It sits under our frames and creates a physical barrier that stops white ants from entering. It also has a chemical infused into it that repels termites. From there, we always use H3 timber as our bottom plate. Again, this is a chemically treated timber that white ants will not eat.
Join us in embracing timber as a sustainable
choice for a greener future.
Experience the financial advantages of timber frames with 2nd Dawn. Build smarter, save more!
Connect with us today to learn more about the multitude of benefits associated with timber frame homes and how they can contribute to a better future for all.