Oak frame benefits
Could this value-adding technique be the best solution for your self build project?
Discover why this construction method could be a great structural material for your upcoming self build project
If you envision an oak frame home, you’re no doubt thinking of warm wooden hues, natural charm and characterful beamwork with those iconic splits and shakes. While the pleasing aesthetic of oak is one of its biggest selling points, this construction method comes with a whole host of other benefits, too.
1 Combine age-old techniques & modern technology
Oak frame has been used for buildings in the UK as far back as the medieval period, and much of the traditional craftsmanship that goes into the process remains unchanged. Nowadays the method has been given an engineered boost thanks to modern technological advancements. Computer-controlled cutters, high-spec insulation and crane-enabled positioning mean you can benefit from the system’s heritage appeal at the same time as ensuring a high performance result that can achieve the toughest low-energy standards.
2 Characterful & flexible design
The innate charm of having exposed oak inside your home is what draws many self builders to this method, but that doesn’t mean it needs to resemble a Tudor manor or chocolate box cottage. In fact, many people now choose to use oak inside strikingly contemporary homes to boost wow factor. Consider using bold colours on the walls beside the framing to create a focal feature, or incorporate metal elements such as stainless steel fixings to give the house an industrial edge. Oak is a natural partner for expansive glazing, too, so look to make the most of surrounding views.
3 Low maintenance finish
A natural material, oak contains organic tannins that prevent moisture and insect damage meaning minimal upkeep is needed from homeowners. Many oak frames are finished with oxalic acid or sandblasted once built to clean any residue left from the building process. You can stain the wood to maintain its warm colour, or leave it untreated and allow it to develop a natural silvery hue over time. Bear in mind the frame will settle into place, meaning what’s known as splits and shakes will appear over time – these don’t compromise the structural stability of the frame, but instead add to the characterful finish.
4 It offers value for money
Oak frame is sometimes mistaken to only be suitable for luxury projects with big budgets. In reality, building from scratch means that you can pick and choose how to use oak in your home, so you can plan the design to suit your requirements. One trick is to work to rectangular floorplans to keep framing simple. Also consider pairing the oak with another, cheaper method, such as timber frame, and focus the oak in places to boost wow factor, such as living areas.
5 Sustainable & robust structure
Oak is considered to be an eco-friendly choice if bought from a sustainably managed source. Green oak (recently felled trees) is always used thanks to the high moisture levels that make it easier to cut than kiln or air-dried timber. The structure strengthens once in place, meaning it can remain usable for hundreds of years, easily repaying the embodied CO2 it took to create over its lifespan.