Can I get a mortgage for a timber frame home?

There is no differentiation between masonry and timber frame homes regarding qualification for a mortgage or insurance purposes. All IJM homes fully comply with and often exceed all building and fire regulations.

Are timber frame homes more susceptible to fire?

The structural form or frame used behind suitable wall linings (plaster/plasterboard) has no bearing on the actions of a fire. The origin of most fires is totally unrelated to the construction materials used. Domestic appliances, furniture and upholstery are the major cause of domestic fires, while most casualties are caused by the inhalation of smoke and toxic gases. All IJM thermal insulation is based around fibreglass or rock wool which do not smoulder or generate toxic fumes when heated. (See BRE and Woodspec for independent information).

How long will it take for the timber frame to be erected on site?

Our authorised erectors can usually complete the erection of a weatherproof shell in a maximum of two weeks.

Will timber frame increase or decrease my fuel costs?

Wood is a highly effective insulating material. It is estimated that the average fuel maintenance cost of a timber frame home is about 40% less than for masonry buildings. See energy matrix for more information

Doesn't a timber frame house add to the global problem of deforestation?

IJM Timber Frame only uses timber that originates from sustainable and correctly managed forests. We make sure that these forest ecosystems maintain their biodiversity, regeneration capacity and vitality.
See ecology section for more information >>

Is a timber frame home as structurally safe as a masonry home?

Absolutely. In fact, because more of the dwelling is manufactured under computer-controlled factory conditions, timber frame houses perform better than masonry homes (source: National Housing Building Council, UK, and Homebond, Ireland).

Is sound insulation as good in a timber frame home as in a masonry home?

Actually, it's better, since timber frame party walls provide better acoustic reduction than masonry walls. See acoustic section for more information >>