Early engagement to secure best value
When it comes to timber frame construction, early engagement isn't just helpful, it's the difference between a good build and a great one. We had a chat with Simon Orrells, Managing Director at Frame Technologies, to find out why early engagement is key.
If there's one piece of advice that could save you thousands on your self-build project, it's this: bring your timber frame supplier into the conversation as early as possible.
And in the current climate, it’s more important than ever. Cost is king right now, so don’t get blinkered with extra unnecessary costs until you know your build route, and then seek specialist advice from the start.
Why is it so important?
We say this time and again, but our top piece of advice for people looking to get the most out of their budget is always to look for the best value rather than simply the best price.
The way to achieve this is by engaging as early as possible with your supply chain. This means getting expert input when it matters most, avoiding costly mistakes, and building efficiently from the ground up.
Your timber frame company is an expert in the material, so rather than paying additional fees to an architect who might not fully understand timber frame construction, take your questions to the specialist from the outset. This approach will save you precious time, effort, and money on designs that might need to be completely reworked once your timber frame manufacturer comes on board.
What else can your timber frame supplier help with?
As well as offering specific guidance, timber frame suppliers can contribute to your project in ways you might not expect.
For example, at Frame Technologies, we can help with:
Detailed design support - working with your vision while maximising structural efficiency
Psi value calculations - ensuring your build meets thermal performance standards
Building regulations expertise – helping you to navigate compliance smoothly
Planning challenge solutions – supporting based on years of experience with similar projects
Value engineering - making your build more cost-effective without compromising on quality
How do you get the most out of the partnership?
In today's unpredictable market, the most valuable asset you can have is a strong relationship with partners and suppliers who offer sound advice and help achieve real value in your build. The closer your relationship with your build partner, the better – they can advise based on your individual needs and their real-time knowledge of market conditions.
Once you've decided on timber frame as your build system, getting your supplier involved immediately can bring significant efficiencies and long-term cost savings. They can source the best-priced materials through their trusted supply chain, confirm material availability, and provide cost security with a fixed cost package. They can also help you keep to plan (and budget!), by sticking to a pre-agreed build route. Delays cost money, so this is an important factor in your journey.
At what point should a self-builder engage with timber frame suppliers?
The answer to this is simple - the earlier, the better. Once you have planning in place, and before you speak with too many external consultants or advisers, make sure your superstructure manufacturer is involved. Your QS and engineer will be dependant on the material you choose, so don’t speak with anyone until you know your build method and you’ve spoken with the supplier.
Early engagement means:
Designs that work efficiently with timber frame from day one
Avoiding costly redesigns and delays
Not spending money on consultants you don’t need
Access to specialist knowledge throughout your project
Better cost certainty and value engineering
A trusted partner who understands your vision and your budget
Your self-build journey is one of the biggest projects you'll ever undertake, so get expert guidance from the very beginning. The conversation you have today with your timber frame supplier could be the one that saves you thousands tomorrow.
Real experience - what our clients say:
“Having a strong team and project partners around you is very important. We knew that Frame Technologies was just at the end of the phone if we ever needed any guidance. Sometimes it was only a five-minute chat, but as a non-professional self builder, you need that point of reference.
“Also, how you select your project partners is important in the self-build process – this is your life savings, so you need to be confident.
“It was clear how much experience Simon has, but I still did financial checks and asked for three references that I could go and see for myself and talk to the homeowners. Everyone was singing his praises and that’s what you want.”
Murray Humphries, Mount View Barn
Ready to start the conversation? Get in touch to discuss your self-build project and discover how early engagement can unlock value in your timber frame build.