Timber frame: myths, facts, and confidence

Absolutely.

A well-designed and properly maintained timber frame home can last well over 60 years, and in many cases far longer. Our systems are accredited by NHBC, BOPAS, and BBA, providing independent assurance of durability, safety, and performance.

The Sigma® II closed-panel system from Donaldson Timber Systems is certified for a 60-year design life under normal maintenance conditions, the same as any traditional masonry structure.

Yes.

All Donaldson Timber Systems products are designed and tested to meet or exceed UK Building Regulations and fire resistance standards. Our closed-panel systems offer 30- or 60-minute fire ratings, with performance verified through BBA certification and third-party testing.

Timber frames are engineered to protect the structure during a fire using protective layers such as plasterboard, insulation, and sheathing boards.

Yes — easily, just like any other modern new build home.

Timber frame has been used in building homes since the Tudor days. Today, products are fully certified through NHBC Accepts, BOPAS, and BBA, and are recognised by lenders, insurers, and warranty providers as approved and reliable construction systems.

Our accreditations provide complete confidence for mortgage lenders, housing associations, and funding partners.

No.

Timber frame homes achieve excellent acoustic performance when properly designed, often outperforming masonry homes. Factory precision and high-quality insulation create solid, airtight homes that feel substantial, quiet, and warm.

All Donaldson Timber Systems wall, floor, and roof systems meet or exceed Part E of the Building Regulations for sound insulation.

Yes.

Timber frame construction is ideally suited to the UK’s variable weather conditions.

Our closed-panel systems are protected during transport and installation, with built-in membranes and vapour barriers ensuring long-term weather resistance and moisture control.

Proper detailing and ventilation ensure longevity, even in high-exposure areas.

No — in fact, timber frame is often more cost-efficient overall.

While the upfront costs can be similar, offsite manufacture and faster build programmes reduce total programme costs through:

• Shorter site durations
• Less reliance on multiple trades
• Lower waste and storage costs
• Reduced defects and rework.

The predictability and programme certainty of timber frame make it a smart financial choice.

Yes — timber frame is one of the most effective routes to low-carbon construction.

Timber is renewable, stores carbon throughout its lifetime, and requires less energy to produce than concrete or steel. Donaldson Timber Systems uses responsibly sourced structural timber and operates to ISO 14001 environmental standards, helping developers meet Future Homes Standard, ESG, and net zero targets.

Not at all.

Timber frame is highly versatile and compatible with a wide range of cladding systems, roof types, and architectural designs.

From affordable homes and apartments to schools, hotels, and bespoke housing, Donaldson Timber Systems provides engineered solutions that adapt to your design, site, and performance needs.

Yes.

Our closed-panel timber frame systems, such as Sigma® II, achieve U-values as low as 0.12 W/m²K and airtightness levels below 3 m³/h·m², ensuring exceptional energy efficiency.

Factory-installed insulation, vapour barriers, and airtight seals ensure thermal performance is consistent and verifiable.

Completely.

Timber is the most natural, renewable, and carbon-storing material, making it the most sustainable structural solution for modern housebuilding.

By combining timber with offsite manufacturing, Donaldson Timber Systems reduces waste, optimises resources, and supports a circular economy — building better homes with a lighter environmental footprint