A STRONGER START FOR YOUR HOME
WHY TIMBER FRAME?
Timber frame brings much of that work into a controlled manufacturing environment, where the panels can be built accurately before arriving on site ready for erection. The result is a well-planned structure that helps the next stages of your build move forward.
Why Choose Timber Frame Over Block?
Compared with traditional block construction, timber frame offers a quicker and often more cost-effective route to building your home.
The structure is precision-manufactured off-site and delivered ready for erection, reducing labour, weather delays and time spent on site. It also allows for high levels of insulation and airtightness, helping create a comfortable, energy-efficient A-rated home.
The result is greater control over the build, fewer delays and a faster move to the next stage.
How does timber frame construction work?
The load-bearing structure of the home is formed using engineered timber wall panels. Timber studs create the main frame, while structural sheathing such as OSB helps provide strength and stability.
​
The panels are designed from the architectural drawings, manufactured off-site and then delivered to the foundations for erection. Depending on the agreed package, OX can also provide internal walls, the roof structure, insulation, airtightness work, roof felt and battens.
Built for an A-rated home
Insulation and airtightness are designed into the wall structure from the beginning. This helps form the high-performing building fabric needed for a warm, energy-efficient home.
Made with precision
Each panel is manufactured from approved technical drawings in controlled factory conditions. Dimensions, openings and structural details can be checked before the frame leaves for site.
Built around your plans
You do not have to change your home to suit a standard frame. We work from your architectural drawings and design the timber frame around the individual project.
.jpg)
Insulation and airtightness
Designed into the structure
.jpg)
With timber frame, insulation is incorporated within the wall build-up instead of being treated as an afterthought.
​
The insulation specification can be tailored to the energy requirements of your home. Airtightness membranes and carefully finished junctions help limit uncontrolled air leakage, while the completed ventilation system provides the fresh air the home needs.
​
The performance of the finished home will depend on the full design, specification and quality of work across the project, not the timber frame alone.
Vapour Control Layer
Everyday activities such as cooking, showering and heating create warm, moisture-laden air inside a home. Without the correct protection, that moisture can travel into the wall structure and form condensation within the concealed layers.
​
A Vapour Control Layer, or VCL, is fitted on the warm side of the insulation to restrict the movement of moisture into the timber frame. This helps reduce the risk of interstitial condensation, the moisture that can form inside a wall where it cannot be seen.
​
When correctly specified, fitted and sealed, the VCL also contributes to the airtightness of the home, helping to limit unwanted heat loss.
​
Why is a VCL important?
-
Helps protect the timber structure from excess moisture
-
Reduces the risk of condensation forming inside the wall
-
Helps protect the insulation and its long-term performance
-
Contributes to the home’s airtightness
-
Helps reduce uncontrolled heat loss
The VCL works alongside breathable external membranes, careful sealing and a ventilated outer cavity. Weep vents allow airflow and provide a route for moisture to drain from the cavity.
​
Together, these elements help keep the wall build-up dry and performing as designed.
Strength, fire safety and durability
Timber frame homes must meet the applicable Irish Building Regulations, just like homes built using other recognised construction methods.
The structure is engineered for the loads placed upon it. Fire resistance and acoustic performance are achieved through the complete wall and floor build-up, including specified linings, cavity barriers and fire-stopping details.
​
The long-term performance of the frame also relies on good design, suitable materials, correct moisture management and careful work during manufacture and erection of the structure.
Your choice of exterior finish
Timber frame does not decide how your home will look.
The frame forms the structure behind the finished exterior, leaving plenty of choice when it comes to the final appearance of your home.
Depending on the architectural design and technical specification, external finishes can include:
-
Rendered masonry
-
Brick or natural stone
-
Timber cladding such as cedar or larch
-
Fibre-cement or rendered board systems
-
Metal finishes including zinc, copper or Corten steel