ABSTRACT
Timber frame is the second most popular construction method for homes in England and Wales, with 15% of United kingdom housing output. It is the most popular in Scotland with 75% of market share. Timber frame is best suited to low-rise development of one to four storeys, but solid timber panels and engineered timber can be used to build apartments up to 10 storeys. A vapour barrier is required to prevent moisture entering the wall structure from the inside. A breather membrane is required to protect against external moisture and an outer leaf of cladding protects from weather and solar radiation. The timber frame is usually manufactured off-site to different levels of completion— either as an open or closed panel. Timber is approximately five times more conductive than insulation, so more timber results in poor thermal performance. The most significant external envelope details affecting heat demand are drawn with good practice airtightness and continuous insulation where practical.
