Building Options
Undertaking a self-build allows you a lot more scope on the exact building methods used on your house. However, if you need to use a self-build mortgage you will need to check your lender allows you to use certain building styles. You also have to consider the surroundings of the plot. A plot between two 17th century thatched cottages is not ideal for a glass and steel modernist cube (you might think it is, but your neighbours in the cottages certainly won't). So what are your options?
Brick and Block
The traditional building method used in the UK, brick and block construction is based on the tried and tested method of an inner skin of blocks with a facing skin of bricks, with insulation sandwiched between. Great for resale reliability (UK buyers are most comfortable with this building type) but not ideal if you want an open plan layout or if you want something unique.
Timber Frame
Very popular in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, and growing in popularity in the UK. Timber Frame houses offer a wide range of styles from traditional brick faced designs, to the more Scandinavian wooden faced styles. Timber frame house kits are relatively cheap, but remember that they rarely include facing bricks, tiles, plumbing, etc.
Steel Frame
Rarely used for residential buildings in the UK, but a very popular building method in the US. Steel framed house kits allow for a very open plan design and can be put together fairly quickly. Bear in mind that you will probably need to buy the kit on a supply and fit basis, rather than just buying the kit and getting your own builder to erect it.
SIP's (Structured Insulated Panels)
Another building method popular in Scandinavia and also the US, SIP's are factory built panels, which slot together to create a very thermally efficient house. The designs available might currently be a bit limited, but this fast and efficient building method has many benefits.
There are obvious pro's and con's with each of these choices (and this list is by no means exhaustive), but the most important point to remember is to make sure you or your builder is comfortable working with the building technique you choose. Assuming you are buying a house kit (definitely the safest choice for the self-builder), the company providing the kit will, in most cases, erect the structure for an additional price. Some self-build kits are priced to include the erection.
Below you can see a list of some of the many companies who offer self-build house kits in the UK:
Benfield ATT
Welsh Oak Frame
Potton
Scotframe
Thomas Mitchell Homes
Woodco
Neatwood Homes
The Border Design Center
The Timber Frame Company
Westwind Oak Buildings
Christian Torsten Ltd
Kilbroney Homes
Galloway Timbers Ltd
House-UK
Harding Homes
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