Timber frame homes are chosen for its beauty and strength and also because it creates a welcoming and natural charm to home. Timber frame homes are also known for their visual appeal, eco-friendliness and strength.It could be custom made, enabling owners to design their own spaces accordingly. Thus, costs are an important concern for these construction projects.
However, it highly depends on the factors that influence its cost. Costs may vary due to factors such as location, size, etc.
Understanding Timber Frame Homes
Time frame homes are made of wood supported by large posts and beams, which are used to construct the outer structure. Mortise and tenon joinery are used to fit together the pieces of the timer to achieve a particular floor plan in a traditional style. There is a modern approach to constructing timber frame homes that use nails, bolts, and plates to style the structure. Another approach is called hybrid, where a blend of both traditional style and modern techniques creates aesthetically pleasing and durable homes.
Cost Per Square Foot
Timber frame homes are custom-built due to varying locations and the precise finishing required in their construction. The cost of building a timber frame home ranges from $150 to $400 per square foot. This happens due to a wide range of designs and the types of wood used. Additionally, the most inexpensive type of wood is eastern wood pine. On the other hand, various types of wood, such as Douglas fir, oak, and red cedar, would cost more due to their fame.
Although price per foot gives the base for a general cost estimate, it's less reliable for timber frame houses. Thus, designing a vaulter, cathedral ceilings and designs associated with this kind of style will cost at the higher end of the average range.
The costs per square foot are highly affected by the extent of outsourcing the work. A full, turnkey package that covers everything, from designing to constructing, may range from $200 to $375 per square foot. However, the DIY method would bring the cost down to $150 to $175 per square foot.
At last, the average overall cost of a timber frame home would cost 20% more than a similar stick-built home, despite the size or design.
Factors Impacting the Cost of Timber Frame Houses
Here are the various factors that influence the cost, and you may prefer to consider them to ensure the cost for the construction of your timber frame house remains within the budget:
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Size - The amount of money goes high with the increase in size of the house. For example, a four-bedroom house will be more expensive than a two-bedroom house.
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Materials - Price varies depending on the type of material used.
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Location site - Constructing in a highly inaccessible area costs more, such as the side of a mountain.
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Design - Simplicity costs less. A complex, detailed or a more intricate curved cord truss would cost more than a simple timber truss design.
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Structured Insulated Panels ( SIPs) - Capital is saved in the long run even though it costs more upfront than stud-framed walls.
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Finishing - Surfaced and smooth are two standard choices for the final treatment of timbers. Additionally, finishes such as hand-hewn or rough-sawn finish also affect the cost.
Advantages of Timber Frame Homes
Here are the various benefits of timber frame homes.
Energy efficiency - It is a sustainable choice for environmental benefits. Timber frames would help in keeping your home warm on cold days as it has a higher R-value than other materials.
Natural materials - It will not release chemical vapors as timber is non-toxic, making it safer to touch and surround with, compared to other materials.
Adaptability - Timber frames can be fitted perfectly into a varied range of materials such as brick, stone or wooden panels to align with local regulations and planning requirements.
Affordability - Timber is a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Prefabricated timber frames - These are produced in factories. They also save time and labor costs.
Faster construction - Prefabricated timber frames are faster to build than traditional ones.
Conclusion
Timber frames are indeed aesthetic for houses. It adds great strength, durability, and offers welcoming warmth of wood. WIth these great advantages, it does cost quite enough. But, cost does vary with different types of wood as well. If you want to wind up the project within the limited budget, opt for material accordingly. Additionally, certain factors also influence the cost. Lastly, timber frames are a great option to incorporate your house with.
