Timber Engineering

Environmentally friendly, fast to build and energy efficient

Timber frame has many advantages - as an engineered product, it forms an accurate structure, which requires minimum fitting. Factory production ensures quality control and reduces construction-related problems, resulting in considerable cost savings. Frames are quick to erect. Built out of timber framework covered with structural board and protected by water-resistant membranes, they can be erected to provide a watertight shell within days. Internal work then proceeds quickly while the outside cladding is completed.

The short construction time (30% faster than brick and block) keeps the building dry and reduces the problems of cracking and shrinkage associated with ‘drying out’ traditional masonry homes.

Staying one step ahead

It is OFP timber frame's aim to be at the forefront of the market for Engineered Timber. In this industry, new products are constantly produced and released into the market, potentially changing the way in which the industry works. From our manufacturing facilities in Sandwich, Kent, we design and supply I-Joist systems for flooring in both cassette and loose form.

The system we employ, with the I-Beam structural timber at the heart of it, provides tighter, longer spans allied with a more efficient installation process.  I-Beam consist of a kerto flange and a high quality, high strength OSB web which results in excellent structural stability as well as outstanding strength to weight ratios.

Kerto timber is used to provide outstanding structural strength. Due to its construction, Kerto is an ideal material for large load structural applications, lintels and rimboards.

Glulam is an engineered product using selected timber, consisting of multiple layers of timber (known as laminations) which are joined together with specialist adhesives to create an architecturally beautiful, durable and flexible material. Ideal as an alternative to steel it is also highly cost-effective and allows for a greater scope of design possibilities.

The benefits of engineered wood products

1. Machining and reassembling timber removes and randomise naturally occurring defects such as splits and knots to produce a more uniform structured material
2. The direction of wood fibre can be orientated so that there is better dimensional stability and strength in a particular direction
3. Composite products can be produced, such as I-beam, leading to a lighter and stronger product than solid timber
4. They are manufactured from younger, smaller trees harvested from managed forests. This allows forest resources to be used more efficiently.

Features and benefits of an engineered timber system

1. Long lengths can span over multiple supports
2. Faster installation time meaning less time on site
3. Suitable for long roof rafters and complicated roofs
4. Engineered for stability and reliability
5. Minimal shrinking and twisting leading to reduced call-backs on site
6. Stronger - Joist centres can be increased – reducing costs
7. Service holes can be easily cut or drilled through the thin web
8. Services can be fitted after deck has been installed
9. Engineered timber is easily man handled leading to faster installation times