Timber frame homes – a modern, sustainable way to build.
Timber frame homes are one of the UK’s most popular self-build methods – and for good reason. Combining speed, precision, and excellent energy performance, they offer a flexible, future-proof way to create your dream home.
At Elsworth Projects, we work with trusted timber frame manufacturers to deliver high-quality structures tailored to your design. From your first sketch to the final panel going up on site, we make sure every stage is planned for efficiency, accuracy, and long-term performance.
What is a timber frame?
Timber frame construction has been used for centuries and remains one of the most popular building methods due to its speed, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
Timber frame building systems consists of pre-manufactured panels, including:
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Structural timber studs – the core framework.
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Insulation layers – keeping your home warm.
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Breather membranes and vapour barriers – enhancing airtightness and moisture control.
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External & internal sheathing – providing structural strength.
Why choose timber frame for your self-build?
Choosing the right building system.
System selection and sourcing of the best manufacturing partners.
Minimising thermal bridging to cut down energy waste.
Compliance with building regulations and warranty requirements.
Structural
performance
capabilities.
Building airtight to prevent draughts and uncontrolled ventilation.
Integration with other building systems (foundations, cladding, steelwork)
Optimising
insulation to reduce
heat loss.
Compatibility with renewable technologies (solar panels, heat pumps etc.).
Fire safety.
Choosing the right timber system for your project is crucial. Our technical support services ensure you get the right structural solution to meet your architectural design, performance goals, and budget. We offer detailed advice on:
Is timber frame the right fit for you?
If you’re looking for a reliable, proven build system that balances speed, cost, and flexibility, timber frame is a strong contender. Around two-thirds of UK self-builders choose some form of timber construction, and it’s easy to see why. Timber frame offers fast build times, great design flexibility, and excellent thermal performance when combined with the right insulation.
Compared with SIPs, timber frame often carries a lower upfront cost, making it attractive for budget-conscious builds. While open-panel timber frame offers a straightforward, affordable solution, closed-panel systems provide greater airtightness and energy performance, making them ideal for self-builders aiming for higher efficiency standards.
At Elsworth Projects, we specialise in both timber frame and SIPs. That means we’ll guide you through the options honestly, helping you decide which system best fits your vision, budget, and long-term goals.
What other support can we offer?
We offer a full supply and erect service, ensuring your timber frame or SIPs home is installed quickly and correctly.
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Performance – we work with you to understand your performance requirements.
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Architectural Review – one size does not suit all, so we carefully review your architectural design to understand the performance requirements.
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System selection – we select the best system that will provide best value and deliver your long-term performance objectives.
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Design & Engineering – we work with your architect to finalise technical drawings.
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Prefabrication – panels are manufactured off-site by our manufacturing partner to meet architectural arrangements and specifications.
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Delivery to Site – we organise the delivery of all components ready for assembly on site.
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Erection by Expert Teams – our skilled installers ensure a smooth, high-quality build.
Our process
Why use our supply and erect service?
✔ Specialist Expertise – we understand performance parameters so are able to specify the best system solution for your unique architectural design.
✔ Faster Installation – reducing construction time & on-site labour costs.
✔ Quality Assured – ensuring panels are installed correctly for maximum performance.
✔ Compliance – meeting Building Control & warranty requirements.
