There are few things more exciting than starting construction on a timber frame home. However, it is important to keep track of the budget for a timber frame house, because costs can balloon if you aren’t careful. Let’s look at some of the most common timber frame home hidden costs so you can prepare ahead of time to keep your build on budget.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Timber Frame House?
The cost of building a timber frame home can vary considerably based on a variety of factors. These can include:
- Square footage
- Amenities
- Location
- Passive solar or not
- Material costs
- And more…
The average cost of timber framing and installation of SIP panels averages around $170 per square foot across the country, but the cost for a fully completed timber frame build is around $350 per square foot.
When compared to the average cost of a standard home, which is somewhere around $200-$300 per square foot, the cost of a timber build can be higher. With timber framing, you are building something special, so it does cost more. Of course, the benefits of living in a work of art are numerous and well worth the added expense for most people.
Although timber frame costs may be only represent 10%-15% of the total build cost you get 99% feeling of the home from the timber frame
Where Can You Cut on Costs on A Custom Timber Frame Build?
There are a few ways that you can keep your costs down when building a timber frame home. These include:
- Working with an experienced designer: Poorly-made plans are often more expensive in the long run because of all the surprises that pop up. It’s often less expensive to hire a proven professional to ensure you get an optimal design from the start.
- Utilize professional management: Our team has a demonstrated ability to source timber and craftspeople while also scheduling timelines that ensure all of these things come together at the right time.
What Are Some Strategies for Managing the Expenses of a Timber Frame Home Project?
Some strategies you can use to manage the expenses of timber construction include:
- Build a smaller home: The less square footage you build, the lower the cost of the home will be.
- Build Up not Out: You will save money on the cost of the foundation and roof if you build a house taller, not wider
- Use existing building plans: We offer a range of timber frame designs that are less expensive than opting for a custom design.
- Work with an experienced builder: The mistakes newcomers make in timber construction are expensive—which is why it’s generally cheaper to work with an experienced team in the long run.
Overlooked Costs to Consider When Building a Timber Frame Home
Some of the most commonly overlooked home costs include:
Site Location
Many people have visions of a gorgeous timber frame home in a remote location with a fantastic view. It’s possible to make this vision a reality, but it can be expensive to do so. The more difficult the build site is to access, the higher the costs associated with the build. It just costs more to transport materials, labor, and other components to the location.
Customization
Many timber frame homes are custom-made, which incurs higher costs than building a home that has already been designed and built many times. Custom timber frame homes are designed by professionals and often require additional custom work to complete, such as structural timbers, windows, kitchens, and more.
HVAC System
Sometimes custom timber frame homes require unique approaches to heating and cooling. There are fewer hidden spaces to hide ductwork and the overall floorplan might require a custom approach for climate control. One way this problem is addressed is through the use of in-floor heating and good planning at the design stage to incorporate areas to hide ductwork etc.
Maintenance
Timber framing is extremely durable and many timber structures have lasted for centuries. That being said, timber materials do require specific care and maintenance on any timbers exposed to direct weather . You want to protect your timbers and maintain the finish on timbers on the exterior of the building doing inspections every 2- 3 years. Timbers on the interior of the home require little if any maintenance since they are not exposed to rain .
Permitting
Timber framing has become much more popular in recent years, but it is still somewhat unusual compared to stick-built homes. Your local permitting office typically requires Engineer review of the Timber Frame. Hamill Creek provides Engineer Sealed Drawings for each timber frame Home we ship no matter the location whether for high wind loads or large snow loads
Design a Timber Frame Home for Your Budget Today!
Trust the expertise of the Hamill Creek team. As leading timber frame home builders, we are excited to share our knowledge on all things related to timber frame homes, helping you grasp the hidden costs, budgeting, and construction aspects of your next home. Do not hesitate to reach out to our timber frame builders to begin the process.
Blog Archive / Timber Frame Homes for All Budgets: Options and Alternatives