Q & A Getting an accurate timber frame quote

Secure the right product at the right price with Simon Orrells’ expert tips

When should I speak to timber frame suppliers?

Involve a timber frame company as early in your project as possible. Suppliers can assist with design, Building Regs and planning challenges, so it’s most cost-effective to take your questions to the specialist from the outset.

What information should I provide?

Each project is unique, so suppliers require as much detail about your objectives as you can give. In the planning stages of your project, they’ll need early planning drawings, elevation drawings and floor plans to put together a budget cost.

If you’re further along with a project when you enquire, and your build has received planning approval and is at Building Regulations stage, then your suppliers will ask for your dimensional drawings, section elevations and site plans. This will allow them to put together much more accurate pricing.

Cost is of course a major factor, so be clear about your budget. It’s also helpful to understand your motivations. Is sustainability important to you, for instance, or do you have other particular goals and specifications that you want to incorporate into your build?

Be honest about how much involvement you want from the supplier. You may only need the product and want to install the frame yourself, or you may require more support and intend to work closely with them at every stage.

What will be included in the quote I get back from the timber framer?

Following discussions about your brief and specifications, they will offer you different products to suit your individual requirements. The quote you receive will vary from company to company. Some suppliers will simply provide an overall cost, whereas others will contribute a more detailed document to show exactly what you are paying for.

What are the common pitfalls to watch out for when assessing quotes?

Always make sure to read your quotes carefully and question anything you don’t understand. It’s also important to get an idea of timescales early on.

Don’t assume each quote will include everything you need to pay for. Some companies do not include mechanical handling fees (cranes and forklifts) in the price, so check whether this has been included. Even if it has been included, ensure the figure covers offloading as well as installation.

It might sound strange, but you should check whether all the structural components, such as steelwork, are included in your timber frame quote. The structural steelwork cannot exist without the timber frame and vice versa.

How can I tell the price is right?

It’s sensible to get quotes from at least three suppliers to compare costs and understand what your money buys. You should also consider that value is not just cost effectiveness; you are paying for confidence in who you will work with. Find a company who supports your vision for your dream home and matches your passion!

For peace of mind, ensure suppliers are members of the Structural Timber Association (STA). Look for the STA Assure logo; this means the business has been independently audited against quality standards. Asking to see the factory will be worthwhile, and make sure you read reviews online.

What happens when I press the green button?

When you’ve agreed a fixed quote with your timber frame supplier and negotiated the specification, the design will be frozen and you’ll be ready to go. If Building Regulations drawings are still outstanding, the team will start work on these – you’ll typically need to wait between 4-6 weeks for them.

Don’t get started on site just yet. You should never start digging foundations until you have the soleplate or setting out drawings. Once these are approved, the supplier will first run up prelim plans, followed by manufacturing drawings while the foundations are constructed.

In terms of timing, the average turnaround from order placement to delivery is around 10-12 weeks.