Timber Frame Houses In South Africa – The Logical Alternative

Right now in South Africa the building industry is booming. Timber frame house construction is starting to garner all kinds of recognition around the country due to the aesthetic, environmental, and economic benefits that are present. In fact, timber frame construction is the better choice as opposed to a traditional brick and mortar house.

For many years, the idea of a timber frame house was not an attractive option for various reasons. First, South Africa lacked suitable indigenous wood for construction. However, due to the great efforts made at afforestation and better milling techniques, timber frame construction is now a feasible venture.

Today it offers better quality, there is plenty of it, and it doesn’t have to be imported. When finished these are constructed beautifully and are quite attractive to any buyer. It’s become so popular that the South African National Building Regulations recommends it. This allows more families to purchase a timber frame house. Plus it’s a great alternative to traditional methods.

So what types of benefits can you find in a timber frame house? It all starts with the difference in weight versus a brick and masonry construction. Oddly enough it is still able to carry more strength-to-weight ratio than steel and concrete. It also has a huge amount of resilience, which allows it to endure stress and shock easier. A more conventional building would otherwise be seriously damaged.

Of even greater importance is the fact that timber buildings have the ability to withstand soil movements without damaging the structure. The rigidity of solid brick-and-mortar buildings makes them susceptible to cracks and extensive structural damage, even with the slightest of soil movements. The ability to withstand soil instability is primarily the reason why timber frame construction is so prevalent in areas around the reef.

They also have plenty of thermal and energy properties. There are hollow cavities within the walls, but the ceiling and spaces, as well as the sub floors are heavily insulated. The end result is you’re left with minimal heat loss throughout the home. Then of course, the thermal efficiency is much greater than the traditional masonry constructions. It’s actually 6 to 8 times greater, and one of the many reasons why a timber frame house is perfect for all seasons.

Last but not least you enjoy plenty of savings when you purchase a timber frame house. Since the product is already here, it’s a lot less than traditional options. They also don’t have to be maintained as much as a standard home made from brick-and-mortar. Dampness is a huge issue with traditional construction, but with timber frame construction there is nothing to worry about at all. Add in the aesthetic value and the unnoticeable appeal, you can find yourself renovating your house without the timber looking like a sore thumb.

What it comes down to is if you live in South Africa, utilize timber frame construction so you can save money and enjoy your new timber frame house.

Darren Kumin is Manager of Double Up Roofroom Specialists, a Timber Frame Construction Company located in Sandton, South Africa. To get more information, click on Timber Frame Houses

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