Wondering exactly how to build an oak frame home? Our guide takes you through the process — from start to finish
(Image credit: Border Oak)
Many self builders want to know how to build an oak frame home — and for good reason.
Oak frame properties are beautiful and full of character, and as a construction method, oak frame is quick to go up and, providing it is supplied through a reputable company, a reliable way to build a house.
We have teamed with two https://youtu.be/qIIGR4n2b4Qoak frame home specialists, Oakwrights and Border Oak, to bring you the ultimate step by step guide to building your own oak frame home.
Never buy a plot without at least Outline Planning Permission (OPP) or conditional on OPP being granted, unless you are willing to take a huge risk.
When making sure your plot is big enough, remember you’ll need space around the site to store materials, tools and for erecting the structure (this could mean hiring land from a neighbour). You’ll also need an access road, that is at least 3 metres wide, for an articulated truck and crane to deliver and erect the house frame and encapsulation.
2. Exposed or Encapsulated Oak Frame?
Most self builders choosing oak frame go down the encapsulation route, where all or part of the frame is wrapped in an insulated shell, which can then be clad in the finish of your choice — render, brick, timber boarding, tile hanging and so on.
The oak frame project, built by Border Oak, below uses a combination of exposed and encapsulated frame.
3. Choosing How to Build an Oak Frame Home
Brilliant oak frame homes
If you need more ideas for your moodboard, check out the best oak frame homes in the UK.
Most people choosing oak frame as a construction system for their self build opt to use an oak frame specialist supplier.
This route means that the design, supply and construction of the frame can all be organised and carried out by the company, who should have good contacts with the local planning department, structural engineers, building contractors and so on.
It is up to the self builder as to the level of involvement they have in the build. Some choose to organise everything but the design and construction of the frame themselves, whilst others leave the whole build process, from applying for planning permission up to completion, in the hands of the oak frame company. Others choose a middle ground, carrying out some of the work themselves but leaving other elements to the oak frame supplier and a team of builders.
The first stage is to select an oak frame company. Visit show homes, speak to others who have used them, and visit completed projects.
Most oak frame suppliers have in-house architects and designers and between you can come up with a design that suits your needs and your budget.
3. Digging the Foundations
(Image credit: Border Oak)
Once you have decided on a design, the structural load of the frame will be calculated. This is usually best handled by your oak frame supplier or an engineer with specific oak frame experience. Your foundation system is dependent on ground conditions too.
Some frame companies offer the foundations as part of the service as it can be beneficial to have one set of people responsible for both elements which are interlinked.
Whilst the groundworks are carried out and services brought on to site, if not already in place, the construction of your oak frame will be underway in the factory or workshop.
Your build team will prepare the base for the oak frame to sit on. The build team you choose is up to you, but often your oak frame supplier will be able to recommend trades they have previously worked with.
5. The Frame is Delivered to Site
(Image credit: Border Oak)
Once the base is ready the oak frame can be delivered to site, ready to be erected.
6. The Oak Frame is Constructed on Site
(Image credit: Border Oak)
Once the oak frame is on site, it can be put together. At this point the oak frame team will take over from the builders.
7. The Encapsulation System is Added
(Image credit: Border Oak)
At this stage, your encapsulation system of choice is added — this might be structural insulated panels (SIPs) or another type of timber-based system that incorporates insulation. The system will 'enclose' the oak frame and provide the walls and roof.
Many oak frame specialists have their own particular encapsulation systems that they tend to use around the oak frame.
8. The Interior Takes Shape
(Image credit: Border Oak)
Internal stud walls are put together and joists are secured as the frame takes shape.
9. The Exterior Cladding Materials are Fixed
(Image credit: Border Oak)
Once the frame is up, the exterior cladding materials can be fixed to the infill panels or encapsulation system. Here, a combination of brick, render and timber weatherboarding has been used.
The roof covering is also fixed into place — in this case, clay roof tiles.
The glazing can be fitted into the window openings too.
As soon as the shell of the house is weathertight (and at the same time as the exterior cladding materials are being fitted) the interior fit out can commence. This will involve first and second fix electrics and plumbing.
Plasterboard or drylining board can be fixed into place, underfloor heating installed, flooring finished laid and so on.
(Image credit: Border Oak)
11. The End Result
(Image credit: Border Oak)
Scaffolding comes down and any final decoration and landscaping can take place.
The house is complete.
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Natasha was Homebuilding & Renovating’s Associate Content Editor and was a member of the Homebuilding team for over two decades. In her role on Homebuilding & Renovating she imparted her knowledge on a wide range of renovation topics, from window condensation to renovating bathrooms, to removing walls and adding an extension. She continues to write for Homebuilding on these topics, and more. An experienced journalist and renovation expert, she also writes for a number of other homes titles, including Homes & Gardens and Ideal Homes. Over the years Natasha has renovated and carried out a side extension to a Victorian terrace. She is currently living in the rural Edwardian cottage she renovated and extended on a largely DIY basis, living on site for the duration of the project.
