Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an architect?
Hopewood Oak will work with you on the design, and provide drawings for your oak frame project.
We advise our clients to involve an architect on larger, complex builds and we recommend that you employ one who has a good understanding of oak frame buildings. If you are already using a firm of architects we are happy to work alongside them – we would usually recommend that we are involved as early in the project as possible.
If you have plans drawn up that we are able to look at, send these to us or let us have the hyper-link to their location online.
Do you make bespoke oak frames?
Yes, nearly all of our oak frames are made to specification.
What is Green Oak?
Green Oak: is generally fresh sawn timber and still carries a good amount of moisture; a moisture content of around 30%. Green oak is suitable for most external structures. As green oak dries, there will undoubtedly be a little movement.
Air Dried Oak: has been seasoned (air dried) for up to 5 years depending on the size of the beam - once air dried, the moisture content is lower at around 18% and the wood becomes more stable. Air dried oak is used where the structure/nature of a project requires the wood to be more stable, although there will still be a small degree of movement.
Kiln Dried Oak: this is where the oak will be dried further to ensure stability. Kiln dried oak is used for joinery and furniture.
How long does it take to deliver my oak frame?
There are a number of factors that will affect your project timeframes:
Planning and design
A deposit will be required to schedule the project
Fabrication of the frame; the timescale will depend on the size and complexity of the frame
Ground works; you will need to have these completed at least two weeks prior to the frame being delivered to site
We will do all that we can to ensure that both your and our timeframes work together.
Do you use any other type of wood?
Yes, we also use high quality softwood for studwork and rafters – this is usually a Scots or Corsican Pine – both are redwoods.
How long do timber frames last?
There are many oak and timber framed buildings that have lasted for hundreds of years. At Hopewood Oak we take great pride in our workmanship; with good design, appropriate use of complementary materials and sensible maintenance, we would expect our frames to last for many years.
Does the oak move once in place?
Each timber does shrink a little as it dries – the benefit of this is that the joints become tighter. The shrinkage occurs in the cross-section and barely affects the length of the timber. The
cracks, known as shakes, appear as the oak dries. These shakes are considered to be part of the charm and beauty of an oak frame.
Will I need to treat my oak frame?
Oak is naturally strong and resistant to insect attack and decay and we do not recommend any further treatments. Oak will naturally silver over time.
Please note that structural calculations are available for all our buildings on request although these generally would not be included in our estimate.
Our joinery meets building regulations standards.