What Is Timber Frame Construction? A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Timber frame construction is one of the most popular ways to build a home in the UK and it’s easy to see why. Rooted in centuries of tradition but designed for today’s world, timber frames combine strength, energy efficiency and speed.

In fact, more than 75% of self-build homes in the UK now use timber frames. And at Turner Timber, we’ve helped thousands of people turn their dream homes into reality with a process that’s smooth, cost-effective and reassuringly straightforward.

Building Your Own Home? Here’s Why Timber Frame Might Be Right For You

If you’re thinking about a self-build, chances are you’ve got a lot on your mind. How long will it take? Will the costs spiral? What if something goes wrong?

Those are big questions, and the truth is that traditional building methods can make things slow and stressful. Timber frames are different. They’re quicker, more predictable and easier to plan around, giving you peace of mind when you need it most.

Whether you’re imagining a modern family home or something more traditional, a timber frame can make your project simpler from start to finish.

The Benefits Of Timber Frame Construction

Choosing a timber frame isn’t just about making the build easier – it’s about creating a home that works for you long-term. 

Here’s how:

• Faster build times: Frames are designed, manufactured and delivered ready to go, cutting months off your schedule.
• Superior thermal efficiency: High performance wall systems mean lower energy bills and a warmer, more comfortable home.
• Design flexibility: From open-plan living to traditional layouts, timber frames give you freedom without compromise.
• Sustainability: All our timber is responsibly sourced from PEFC-certified forests.
• Cost effectiveness: A predictable process means fewer delays and less chance of unexpected costs.
• Precision manufacturing: At Turner Timber everything is designed and built in-house to exacting standards, so it all comes together perfectly on site.

Why Choose Turner Timber As Your Partner?

We’re not just suppliers. We’re here to be part of your journey.

As a Yorkshire-based family business with decades of experience, we’ve worked on projects of every size, from one-off self-builds to large developments. What makes us different is the way we support you. From your first call to the final frame being installed, we’ll be there with advice, guidance and practical help.

And it’s not just our words – our customers say the same. Many have built with us more than once, and we’re proud to be recommended time and again.

Building With Confidence: Accreditations and Standards

We’re proud members of STA (Structural Timber Association), the UK’s leading body for timber construction, setting high standards for quality and safety.

Our Gold level accreditation means your frame is designed, manufactured and installed to the highest industry standards. It’s your peace of mind that your home is safe, compliant and built to last.

Our Timber Frame Build Process

One of the best things about timber frames is how simple and structured the journey is. You’ll always know what’s happening next and who’s responsible for what. 

Here’s how the process works when you build with us:

1. Share your ideas

It starts with your vision. 

Whether you want a cosy cottage, a contemporary home or something in between, we’ll listen to your ideas around size, style and lifestyle. This is your chance to tell us about the must-haves and the nice-to-haves so we understand what you’re aiming for.

2. Work with your architect and secure planning

Most self-builders start by working with an architect to bring their ideas to life. Your architect will prepare drawings that capture your vision and meet local regulations. These plans are then submitted to your local council for planning permission.

We’re happy to talk to your architect at this stage too – it’s often helpful for them to check in with us on details that affect the frame design. 

From your planning drawings we will be able to present you with a full price and specification for the timber frame.

3. Visit Turner Timber HQ

We always encourage you to come and see us in Hull. 

Meeting face-to-face means you can walk through the process, ask questions and see how we work. It’s a chance to get comfortable with the people who’ll be building your frame and for us to show you the quality and care that goes into every project.

4. Place your order

With your planning approved and your visit complete, it’s time to lock things in. Once you place your order, we’ll schedule your frame and start preparing the detailed design work. This is where the project really starts to feel real.

5. Design and detailing

Our design team takes your architect’s drawings and turns them into a working Timber Frame home, so that when your kit arrives on site, everything slots into place perfectly.

At this stage, one of the key decisions you’ll make is your wall system:

• Advanced (0.16) –120mm of PIR insulation and Reflective membrane for excellent thermal efficiency in a 140mm timber frame.
• Super Advanced (0.14–0.09) – the top choice for cutting-edge energy performance with a range of internal insulation options and reflective service cavity

The wall option you choose will influence how energy-efficient your home is and how much it costs to heat in future. 

We’ll guide you through the options so you can make the right choice for your build and your budget.

6. Laying the foundations

While we’re busy manufacturing your frame in our Hull factory, your builder will be preparing the site and laying the foundations. Because everything is designed to exact tolerances, it’s vital the foundations are set out correctly. We’ll coordinate with your builder to make sure everything lines up ready for delivery.

7. Delivery and installation

On the agreed date, we’ll deliver your frame to site. 

Our assembly team – all highly trained and fully insured – will then put the frame together quickly and efficiently. Most homes go from a bare slab to a standing structure in just a few days, which is one of the biggest advantages of a timber frame.

8. Final works

Once the frame is up, your builder takes over again, completing the internal and external works. At this point, you’ll start to see your home taking shape in detail – and because the frame is watertight so quickly, trades like plumbers and electricians can get started sooner, speeding up the whole build programme.

FAQs for First-Time Builders

How long will a timber frame home last?

With the right care, a timber frame home will last as long as any traditional build – over 100 years.

Can I use brick or stone cladding with a timber frame?

Absolutely. Many timber frame homes are finished with brick, stone or render, so they look just like traditional homes.

Is timber frame safe in terms of fire resistance?

Yes. Timber frames are designed and built to meet all UK fire safety regulations, with materials that slow the spread of fire.

What about resale value and mortgages?

Timber frame homes are widely accepted by mortgage lenders and hold their value just like other build types.

Can I make design changes once the frame is built?

Minor tweaks are possible, but it’s best to finalise your design before manufacturing to avoid delays and costs.

Why Choose Timber? Why Choose Turner?

Timber frame is a faster, smarter and more sustainable way to build. It gives you certainty, efficiency and a comfortable home for the future.

With Turner Timber, you get more than a frame. You get a partner who’ll guide you through every stage, making your self-build less stressful and more rewarding.

Planning your self-build? Get in touch to speak to the Turner Timber team today.