Your first project roadmap
Greener, faster, better.
At Donaldson Timber Systems, we believe that timber frame is the future of UK housebuilding.
As demand for sustainable, energy-efficient, and regulation-compliant homes continues to grow, timber frame construction provides a proven, high-performance alternative to traditional building methods.
Backed by more than 50 years of experience and the strength of the Donaldson Group, we’ve helped build over 150,000 timber frame homes, delivering faster programmes, lower embodied carbon, and exceptional build quality , all through modern methods of construction (MMC).
The timber frame advantage
Faster construction
With much of the work completed through offsite manufacture, timber frame projects can be delivered up to 30% faster than traditional masonry builds.
Precision-engineered panels arrive ready to install, reducing on-site trades, minimising delays, and helping housebuilders meet tight programmes with confidence.
Consistent quality and performance
Factory production ensures accuracy and repeatability that’s impossible to achieve consistently on site.
Every timber frame panel is built under controlled conditions, ensuring precise dimensions, airtight seals, and reliable thermal performance — meaning fewer defects, reworks, and surprises.
Low carbon and sustainable
Timber is the most sustainable structural material available. It’s renewable, stores carbon, and supports net zero and low-carbon housing targets.
By manufacturing offsite, Donaldson Timber Systems further reduces waste, transport emissions, and site energy use , contributing directly to Future Homes Standard compliance and environmental goals.
Meeting the Future Homes Standard
As the UK moves toward Future Homes Standard 2025, the need for energy-efficient building fabrics has never been greater.
Timber frame systems — especially our closed-panel Sigma® II solution — deliver excellent U-values and airtightness, helping you meet or exceed new thermal and carbon-emission requirements.
Predictable costs and reduced risk
Timber frame provides cost certainty through fixed manufacturing schedules and material control.
Because panels are pre-engineered and pre-insulated, there’s less site waste, fewer weather delays, and more predictable financial outcomes — critical in today’s challenging construction environment.
Adaptable and scalable
From single plots to large-scale housing developments, Donaldson Timber Systems offers scalable solutions that fit your design, performance, and budget goals.
Our open-panel and closed-panel timber frame systems give developers flexibility to choose the right specification for every project type.
Compliance and certification
All Donaldson Timber Systems products are independently tested and accredited, meeting the highest standards for building regulations, quality, and durability.
Our systems are certified by NHBC Accepts, BOPAS, BBA, and the Structural Timber Association, giving confidence to funders, insurers, and warranty providers alike.
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A Proven Modern Method of Construction (MMC)
Timber frame is officially recognised as a Category 2 Modern Method of Construction, representing a vital step toward building faster, smarter, and more sustainably.
By increasing Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV) and moving more work into a controlled factory environment, offsite timber frame manufacture supports:
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Higher productivity and quality.
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Improved health and safety.
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Reduced labour requirements on site.
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More sustainable, energy-efficient homes.
At Donaldson Timber Systems, our automated manufacturing facilities and expert installation teams ensure that each home we help build delivers measurable performance and long-term value.
Built for the challenges of modern housebuilding
Today’s construction landscape demands:
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Speed of delivery for affordable and private housing.
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Assured quality and compliance with building regulations.
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Reduced reliance on scarce site labour.
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Sustainable, low-carbon materials for net-zero outcomes.
Timber frame addresses all of these challenges. And with the experience, innovation, and stability of Donaldson Timber Systems behind you, it’s easier than ever to make the change with confidence.
Make the change to timber frame
With over five decades of innovation, Donaldson Timber Systems continues to lead the industry in timber frame manufacturing, offsite construction, and modern methods of construction.
We combine expertise, engineering excellence, and sustainability to deliver high-performance homes that are greener, faster, and better for the future.
Contact our team to learn how timber frame can transform your next development.
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