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Timber frame construction guide - sourcing the right materials for success

Planning a timber frame build and sourcing materials? 

Whether it’s a small lean-to or shed, or a full house extension for a customer, this timber frame construction guide focuses on the materials side - giving you insight into why each one matters and where to source them. 

As a trusted North West timber merchant, NWTT covers what should be in your materials order, for easy organisation and project success. 

 

What is needed for timber frame building design and construction? 

While it can widely differ by job, most timber frame constructions will require: 

  • Structural softwood for the frame 
  • Sheet materials for sheathing 
  • Insulation 
  • Airproof membranes 
  • An array of fixings, which can change depending on the materials you are using 

Starting with a complete materials order is the simplest way to reduce delays and ensure project efficiency. 

Choosing the right structural timber 

Most commonly graded by strength, industry-standard examples include C16- and C24-graded softwoods. 

C16-graded softwood covers most structural applications, while C24 is specified for projects that require greater load-bearing capacity. The structural engineer will likely specify what is needed.

Any structural timber exposed to the elements benefits from timber treatment before it’s enclosed. Available treated from our timber yard; find out more about our TANALITH treatment from NWTT.

Studwork and framing timber 

Internal stud walls and partitions within a timber frame build are typically formed using CLS, a planed softwood with a smooth, consistent finish. In some cases, scant, a chunkier, rough-sawn alternative is used where a sturdier profile is needed.


To see which is right for your job, check our CLS vs scant guide.

Sheathing and sheet materials 

OSB is the standard sheathing material used across timber frame panels, for structural rigidity and a base for airtight membranes. Where a smoother face, better screw-holding or higher structural performance is called for - racking panels, floor and roof decks, or anywhere the panel will be exposed - plywood is specified instead. 

Getting the right thickness and grade specified early avoids on-site substitutions that might be off-spec. 

Insulation and building performance

Affecting the U-values your build needs to meet, insulation is integral for building comfort and energy-efficiency. NWTT offers a wide range of insulation materials in a choice of types and thicknesses, including: 

  • Loftroll 
  • Celotex insulation boards
  • STYLITE  

Internal linings

Once the frame is closed and insulated, internal faces are lined out with plasterboards. Board type varies by room - moisture-resistant in bathrooms and kitchens, fire-rated where compartmentation is required. Getting board type onto the materials list at frame stage avoids a second order later.


Fixings and fasteners 

Most timber frame constructions require a select range of screws and fixings to complete the job. This generally includes timber screws and construction screws, but this could also change depending on the specification you are working to. 

 

Finding your construction supplier

 Ordering from a single merchant is convenient, simplifies your supply chain, and reduces the number of deliveries to coordinate on a busy site. 


Partnering with NWTT specifically gives you access to: 

  • Timber on finance - so you can split the timber frame building cost across multiple ways to pay, including Klarna, ApplePay, AmazonPay, GooglePay, and more.
  • A trade account designed for construction professionals 
  • Priority ordering 
  • Special trade-only discounts, including our Bear minimum monthly deals
  • A choice of branches for same-day Click & Collect or local delivery

 

Put your order in today with NWTT 

For timber frame building materials you can trust and a range of trade-specific benefits, NWTT is ideal for small to medium contractors who want to get ahead of their next project.

Find answers to your specification questions or specific advice; come and see us at your nearest branch or contact us on 01942 720 777. With decades of experience and local sites across the North West, we’re close enough to assist with all eventualities.