Frequently asked questions

With over a decade of experience there are not many problems we have not had to face or questions we can’t answer.

Set out below are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

For further information please contact us,
Tel: 01483 568090 Email: enquiries@jamesogilvie.co.uk

How long will my oak frame take to assemble?
Your frame will be constructed and built in our workshop before delivery to site, this way we can be sure it fits together and will keep the time on site down to a minimum. A standard two bay garage would take approximately one week to erect and prepare for roofing.

Are all timbers in the building oak?
Due to our bespoke and flexible nature, we have the ability to economize on projects by using softwood in places were oak isn’t seen or necessary.

Do I need planning permission for the building?
A lot of projects don’t need planning permission under permitted development laws. We recommend you contact your local council to check if your proposed project needs permission. Alternatively we can contact the council for you.

How long will the building last?
All you need to do is look around you to see how long traditionally built oak timber frames last. We often do refurbishment work on frames that have been up for over 300 years.

Will the oak frame shrink and move?
Green oak frames are prone to movement and shrinkage. This is due to the beams drying out and essentially decreasing in mass.

Will this affect the structural integrity of my building
Movement and shrinkage in a frame will not affect the building structurally. Our frames our designed to accommodate the movement. The ageing of the oak actually increases the strength of the frame as well as adding character.

Will a green oak frame be more expensive than modern building methods?
People are often pleasantly surprised about how competitive we can be with modern building methods.

Do I need to treat/stain my building?
Oak is extremely resistant to weathering and ages beautifully so doesn‘t need to be treated. If you don’t like the look of aged oak then we can treat the frame to preserve its fresh look.

What about rot/woodworm?
Oak is extremely resistant to both rot and woodworm. Over the years the sap wood may come off, but the heartwood will remain untouched for many years to come.

Will an oak frame building increase the value of my property?
A tastefully designed oak framed building or extension will not only add value to your property but will add a touch of class that other building methods can’t achieve.

How much will the building cost me?
All of our projects our unique to our clients needs, we are happy to provide an initial consultation without obligation and follow-up with a costing without charge.

Do I need to organize my own builders to do the groundworks and roofing?
We can offer a full build service using our own team of ground workers and roofers, alternatively we are happy simply to supply and erect our frame.

Can I insulate my new oak building?
All of our buildings conform to modern building regulations, if insulation/ ventilation is needed then we can easily accommodate this into your frame.

Can I safely incorporate glass into my oak framed building?
Glass can easily be incorporated into your green oak frame; we use seasoned oak to frame the glass to prevent the movement of the green oak compromising the glass.

We don’t like the look of some of the oak buildings we have seen; can you design a building for us around our ideas?
We can offer a full architectural design service to turn your ideas into a unique bespoke frame.

Do you supply a standard garage and if so what size?
All of our projects our completely unique to suit your individual needs, although if you see a project that you like from our portfolio then we are happy to replicate it.

I’ve always wanted to build my own house, could I erect the frame that you supply?
Although we offer a full building service, we are also happy just to supply you with the frame, to be erected by yourselves or by others.

For further information please contact us,
Tel: 01483 568090 Email: enquiries@jamesogilvie.co.uk



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www.marshalldesign.co.uk