Oak Framed Buildings

Little compares to the beauty and craftsmanship in the construction of traditional English oak framed buildings. For many years owners of rural properties have favoured this form of construction as they develop their residence despite many modern alternatives being available to them on the market. Traditional jointing methods are still implemented when joining the oak beams in these frames and they are often left exposed to be admired as an intrinsic part of there design. Exposed to the elements, external components of an oak frame will darken with time and the appearance will soon adopt the feel of a building which has been routed there for many years.

Building technology is continuously evolving usually with intention of keeping up with the ever changing building regulations. Building methods have also developed and it is now possible to have a brand new house up and watertight in less than 3 months. However, this type of technology is more suited to the large development estates and apartment blocks and for those who want something unique; something that separates their home from just another building then one of the best ways of achieving this is to use traditional building materials and methods. Ironically modern materials are mostly traditional materials too. Brick and timber make up the majority of house construction and the reason for this is that these materials are the most adaptable, cost effective and structurally sound. Another reason is that there is a tradition of using these materials so that builders are familiar with them and home owners are also used to their appearance. This makes the adaptation of traditional materials into modern construction not only possible but an effective way of utilizing resources. A typical example of combined modern and traditional oak framed buildings materials, is the use of green oak timber frames. Green oak, or new oak, is a material that has been used in building in the United Kingdom for centuries. We know this because many of the buildings that were built with the oak are still standing today. Oak can withstand the climate swings, insects and moisture that cause many modern materials to disintegrate. It is a hardwood that gets tougher with age and gains in aesthetic appeal. Some may suggest that green oak moves too much but this where the traditional and modern combine to make use of the best of both worlds. Expert oak carpenters know how the material will respond over time, can choose the right pieces for the right places and know how to join the frame members to restrict and control movement. These carpenters also know the best ways of combining the new and old so that the advantages of each are maximised.

Another aspect of traditional building is the timber cladding. This can have a bad reputation when people have used the wrong materials in the wrong environment or have not had the instillation done by a professional. Timber cladding is very attractive and the right choice of material is both appealing and resistant to wear. Local timbers are best for timber cladding because the timber has a natural resistance to both weather and insects. It is also a lightweight material and suitable for extensions, attic windows and lofts.Timber is not the only material which can make a difference to the final appearance of your house. Traditional Ironmongery is one detail that is overlooked in finishing stages and this can be the difference between a house that looks and feels like a traditional home and one that just has the feel of a run of the mill construction. From door handles to door closers, hinges and kitchen cupboards there is a traditional choice that will enhance the design. There are often local variants that range from blacksmith handles to decorated porcelain cabinet knobs that help your home to reflect the unique character of where your home is built. The main advantage of using traditional building materials is that your home looks like is belongs in the place where it is built. This may not seem important at first but when it comes down to the nuts and bolts of choosing a place to call your own it is these materials that will give you sense of belonging that makes a house into a home.