THE MAIN CHOICES INCLUDE…
Masonry
Modern masonry homes consist of an inner loadbearing skin, a cavity, which is fully or partially filled with insulation, and an outer skin, which often protects the structure from the elements. Materials are readily available and most builders are used to working with blockwork.
Timber frame
Timber frame walls consist of timber studwork panels, usually fixed in place with oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood. These can be built on site by a carpenter (‘stick build’) or prefabricated, in which case they can either come as a closed panel system with factory fitted insulation and joinery, or as open panels that need insulation and joinery installed on site.
SIPS
Structural insulated panels are manufactured off site, and once delivered can be erected and made watertight in a matter of days or weeks. The loadbearing panels typically consist of a rigid insulating core sandwiched between two pieces of OSB. SIPS can be ideal for those wanting to build an airtight, highly insulated home.
ICF
Insulating concrete formwork offers an on-site approach. Ready-mix concrete is poured into formwork, typically made of expanded or extruded polystyrene. The formwork acts as both the ‘mould’ for the concrete and is left in situ to provide a continuous layer of insulation. Another benefit is that ICF can be suitable for building basements.
Oak frame
Ideal for those who want a characterful home with vaulted ceilings, tastefully exposed beams and double-height spaces, the oak frame structure is typically manufactured off site and erected on site. The frame is normally encapsulated within a SIPS or timber panel system to create an energy-efficient and airtight build.
Steel frame
Most new homes and many extension and renovation projects feature steel in some form — usually steel beams to provide support above openings. This construction system can be well suited to homes where large spans and large areas of glass are used. But again, it’s a hybrid method of sorts as it will need to be encapsulated.