CHOOSING A CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM
There are a number of different build systems to choose from (see below) — no longer is the choice simply between timber frame and masonry. In most instances, your chosen construction system will have little impact on how the exterior of your home will look, as most cladding materials can be used with all the main construction systems.
Construction systems can be broadly divided into on-site methods, such as masonry and ICF, where the majority of the structure is built on your building site, and off-site methods, where the main structure is constructed elsewhere and delivered to site to be erected. The latter tends to result in a faster build on site.
There are essentially three things to consider when deciding: price, quality and speed. If you are not too concerned with how your house looks ‘under the bonnet’ or feel unable to make this decision, then it might be best to hire a professional to do this for you.your chosen architect, structural engineer or builder may have preferred methods of working and in such cases you would be well advised to work with your appointed specialist on the systems they know and like. Alternatively, they may offer advice on the most cost-effective or suitable construction system for the home you hope to build.
Conversely, if you have your heart set on a particular construction method – maybe oak frame for its character, or timber frame because you hope to project manage once the superstructure is built – then it’s a good idea to approach a designer or package company well versed in that construction system from the outset. Each construction system has its own set of parameters and design challenges, and designing a home with said construction system in mind is a cost-effective route.