The construction method you choose is one of the biggest decisions that will be made when building your home. The decision is influenced by many factors including the cost, the time required, the quality of construction, as well as the actual physical features of each method. Both timber frame and masonry offer a variety of benefits. Timber frame houses are often the most cost effective. Why are timber frames generally more affordable than masonry?
Materials Costs
In masonry, bricks, mortar, and blocks are usually pricier. Timber prices can differ depending on species, but they are still cheaper than masonry. Timber is also a renewable source, so it can be obtained more easily and sustainably. This further reduces costs. A masonry material’s cost is often increased by the need for extensive transportation and processing.
Speed
Due to the ir off-site construction, timber frame homes are much quicker than traditional masonry houses. After the frames have been assembled off-site, they are transported on site to be quickly assembled. This reduces labour costs and construction times. For Timber Frame Companies Near Me, visit Merlin Timber.
Labour Costs
The construction of timber frames is more labour-efficient than that of masonry. Timber frames allow for a lot of work to be done in controlled environments off site, reducing the time that skilled labour is required on site. This reduced on-site time translates into lower labour costs.
Requirements for the Foundation
The foundations of timber frame homes from Timber Frame Companies Near Me tend to be less sturdy than those for masonry houses, so they are less costly. The heavier masonry construction often requires a much more expensive and substantial foundation to hold the weight. This difference can have a major impact on construction costs, especially on sites with soil conditions that may require even larger foundations.