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What is timberframing?

Timberframing uses woods like Oak, Douglas Fir and Larch, usually as 'green' wood - that is, wood that still contains natural moisture from the sap of the tree. It is a traditional technology which has been in use for thousands of years. Using the best techniques from early English and European buildings, our structures will last hundreds of years and be both financially and ethically worthwhile.

Properly constructed timber frames are 'living' structures which are very strong indeed. They have a proven history of withstanding subsidence, hurricanes, flooding and even earthquakes! The structure itself can be adapted much later in life as the needs of the occupier change…and this may well be hundreds of years later, as timber frames last for centuries.

At Cutting 'Edge, we are committed environmentalists and one of the most important reasons we choose to work with timber frames is due to the low environmental impact. All our materials are sustainably produced and we follow the wood from the forest to your structure, overseeing felling, sawing, framing, raising and finishing. We are also willing to involve you in every stage of the process, if you wish.

A Typical Design process

Due to the nature of timber frames, we prefer to be involved as early as possible in the decisionmaking process. This allows you to benefit from our experience in design, planning, and working with architects, local authorities and other trades. We have planned, designed and constructed many structures 'from the ground up', including the drawings and planning documents, thereby saving money and a lot of bother! However, we are pleased to work with any other professionals you may have involved in your project.

We try to establish a dialogue with all the people involved in the building process. Our knowledge of low-impact and environmentally friendly techniques and materials can often benefit the build as a whole. Apart from that, it is important that the architects and other trades understand the nature of timber frames, so you get the best possible solution. Compromises sometimes have to be made due to planning regulations and suchlike, and we are always happy to help. Timber frames are often thought of as 'traditional' but can be made to look very modern - just let us know how you want yours to look.

After the design phase, the frame itself is cut and pre-assembled offsite at our framing yard. We then raise it at your site on foundations in a matter of days. This leaves you with a structure which is ready for other trades to work on right away, giving your project a good start. We are of course on call should any questions arise after the frame is raised.

Recent projects

- and many other roof projects, renovations and new builds in the UK, France, Iceland and North America.