Choosing the Right Construction Method for Your Self Build

Timber frame homes are built using factory-made wooden panels that form the structure of the building. Once the frame is erected on site, it’s typically clad with brick, render, or timber for the external finish.

• Speed of build – Frames are manufactured off-site and can be erected quickly, reducing construction time and weather delays.

• Precision and quality – Factory production ensures consistent quality and tight tolerances.

• Excellent insulation potential – Easy to achieve high thermal performance and airtightness.

• Lightweight – Ideal for sites with poor ground conditions or where foundations need to be minimal.

• Sound insulation – May require additional detailing to achieve high acoustic performance.

• Moisture management – Requires careful detailing to prevent condensation or rot.

• Perception – Some buyers still prefer traditional masonry homes for resale value, though this is changing rapidly.

This is the classic UK build method — using inner and outer leaves of blockwork with a cavity in between, often filled with insulation. The external face is usually finished in brick or render.

• Proven durability – A long history of reliability and familiarity for builders and surveyors.

• Thermal mass – Retains heat well, helping to stabilise indoor temperatures.

• Sound insulation – Dense materials provide excellent acoustic performance.

• Wide labour availability – Most trades are experienced with this method.

• Build speed – Slower and more weather-dependent than off-site methods.

• Energy efficiency – More challenging to achieve ultra-low energy standards compared to modern systems.

• Labour-intensive – Requires skilled masons and more on-site coordination.

SIPs are high-performance panels made from rigid insulation sandwiched between two structural boards (usually OSB). The panels form the walls and roof, creating an airtight, super-insulated structure.

• Exceptional insulation – Low U-values and excellent airtightness make SIPs ideal for low-energy or Passivhaus designs.

• Fast build – Panels are cut to precise dimensions and assembled quickly on site.

• Strong and lightweight – Offers structural strength with minimal material weight.

• Design flexibility – Works well with modern, open-plan layouts.

• Upfront cost – Higher material and manufacturing costs compared to basic blockwork.

• Limited on-site modifications – Panels must be pre-designed accurately; last-minute changes are difficult.

• Specialist installation – Requires experienced installers to maintain airtightness and performance.

ICF uses hollow interlocking blocks made from insulation material (usually EPS or similar), which are stacked like Lego and filled with reinforced concrete. The result is a highly insulated, solid wall structure.

• Exceptional strength – Concrete core gives excellent structural integrity and longevity.

• Energy efficient – Continuous insulation on both sides of the wall minimises thermal bridging.

• Air and sound tight – Great for energy performance and acoustic comfort.

• Speed – Simple stacking system allows for fast on-site progress.

• Specialist expertise – Not all builders are familiar with ICF, so experienced installers are important.

• Fixing and finishing – Requires different methods for attaching cladding or internal finishes.

• Higher initial cost – Though running costs can be lower over the building’s lifetime.