FAQ

+ How long will a timber frame last?

Constructed with the ability to breath, a timber frame will outlast many other forms of construction. Kudos is only interested in constructing buildings that will last for centuries rather than decades.

+ Can you get insurance?

Insurance is exactly the same as any other form of construction where a leaf of blockwork is used on the outside leaf. If your construction is more forward thinking, insurers are more and more aware of this and will act accordingly.

+ Are there sound issues?

There are sound issues with all forms of construction as it is generally hard finishes that cause this and timber frame is no different than any other form. Building regulations have standards that must be adhered to for walls and floors across all forms of construction. Kudos can improve on the standard regulatory requirements if requested by a client.

+ Can I hang anything on the wall?

There is no issue in hanging anything on the walls. It is necessary to first fix larger or heavier items such as TVs WCs, basins, kitchens or appliances, but these are generally pre-planned in the functional design of the house. We would carry out first fix as required before it is covered up to provide backing. However, if you decide later to hang a substantial item on the wall after you move in, backing can be retro-fitted and made good prior to installation. Hanging pictures etc, is a simple process requiring only a cordless drill, a plug and a screw!

+ Is a timber frame build more prone to fire?

In short, no. It is generally always the contents of any building that go on fire, not the form of construction. In a fire, timber will maintain its integrity for a longer period of time than say, blockwork, which crumbles after a fire reaches a particular temperature.

+ What is the time frame of a build?

The beauty about a timber frame is that it can be constructed quickly and not cause potential cracking issues later. However, finishes take the same time as any other form.

+ How much more energy efficient are they than conventionally built houses?

Due to the way the detailing, airtightness and insulation levels are within a Kudos timber frame you will never regret building in this form. We have clients who have come from a conventionally built house and are blown away by the comfort and performance of our homes, even in our very large projects.

+ What is a U-value?

A U-value is the unit used (measured as watts per metre square degrees Kelvin - W/m2⁰K) to calculate the heat loss through the different elements of a building, such as the floor, wall or roof. Ideally the lower a U-value, the better. Our U-values will be always less than or equal to 0.21. We can however achieve any U-value you desire as we are not tied to only one way of constructing a timber frame.

+ Should I build a passive house?

Passive construction is an exceptionally high level of performance. It starts at the design stage right through to completion of the building. We have built a number of passive houses, although only one of which was certified (client choice). We do have other houses that are low energy and not passive, where clients are delighted with the performance and feel of their new home. As with all choices, we are happy to discuss the pros and cons.

+ Is the cost higher for a timber frame build?

If you build a conventional home to perform at the same levels as a Kudos home then the conventional home should be more expensive. However, if you build to today’s Building Control requirements, our timber frame will be more expensive.

+ What about Maintenance?

There is no more requirement for maintenance in a timber frame house as a conventional house. There is nothing further you need to do outside of normal upkeep of a home.