Self-Build

If you’re planning to undertake a self-build project, Cilimu can help you out.

Have a scroll to learn about the process, get answers to any questions, and take a peek at some examples of self-build projects we’ve been working on.

With Cilimu,
You Can:

Assess Project Costs

Appoint A Principal Contractor

Appoint A Foundation Engineer

Place an order for the timber frame

The Process

Before we get started:

Think of your dream home

How many bedrooms does it have? Bathrooms? Balcony?

Whatever you’re imagining, we can help make it happen.

Get a budget together

Work out how you’re funding the project, how much you can afford to spend on each step, and, if applicable, arrange your mortgage.

Have a look at this helpful guide for preparing to mortgage your timber self-build home.

Register your land

Once you’ve found your building plot, find and sign your local self build register.

Design your concept architecture

Whether you’re doing it yourself, or finding an architect, let us know.

We can assess the concept design for structural feasibility, and advise on a range of construction aspects, such as thermal efficiency. We can also help you find an architect - just get in touch.

Get planning approval

Find out if you need planning permission or building regulations approval for your self-build.

Click here for more info.

Start planning!

This step is the most complex, but also the most exciting.

Here’s a handy checklist for what you need to remember:

Submit your SAP Assessment, and make sure it’s been approved.
A SAP Assessment is required by building regulations on every project to assess the building’s energy use. Just contact Cilimu - we can help! We have years of expertise in energy efficiency, thermal insulation, and sustainable methods of construction.

And, if you would like to surpass building regulations and create a Zero Carbon home, make the most sustainable choice. Click here to discover the benefits of Cilimu’s patented Passivhaus build system.

Find your principal designer.
In most cases, an experienced architect would perform this role. We would advise that you submit for architectural building regulations approval at this stage.

It is possible to submit a building regulation notice, but this would limit the amount of planning before site works start. Read more here.

We would highly recommend a good architect to help guide you through this process, but if you don’t have an architect on board at this stage of the project, Cilimu can help.

We can provide quotations from planning drawings, and draw architectural details for many aspects of your project, along with guiding you through the building regulation process.

Get in touch today!

Decide on your build structure.
We truly believe that timber frame is the perfect choice for your project. At Cilimu, we can take the weight off, and provide as much help as required in most aspects of the construction process.

Have a look at the benefits of building with a timber frame.

We will tailor our quotation to meet your project requirements. To discover what we can offer you, have a look at our services.

Decide on insurance.
If you’d like a building insurer to insure the construction of your home, make sure it’s sorted before the build starts.

Some architects can also offer this, but in a limited form.

Get quotations for the major project elements.
Including:

Project management
Principal contractor
Foundations/substructure
Doors and windows
Mechanical/electrical
Roofing
Kitchen & bathrooms.

Find your Principal Contractor.
Cilimu cannot act as your Principal Contractor - but just get in touch, and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Develop a build program.
Make sure the program includes realistic achievable dates for each stage of the build.

Works Start On Site

All timescales are estimates - but we’ll try to get you up and running as quickly as we can.

Upon receipt of an order and agreement of payment terms, Cilimu will start timber frame engineering. We’ll also provide structural loads to your foundation engineer, so that the foundation/substructure design can be completed.

PC: Will be organising site works and ordering materials.

12 weeks prior to timber frame on site

We will then issue an approval drawing package to you, the Principal Contractor, and the Principal Designer. This will confirm our contract remit, give solutions to any potential problems, and request any information required for us to deliver the agreed structure.

When we have received comments on our drawings and answers to our questions, we will update and issue you with confirmed approval drawings.

PC: Will be organising site works, site safety, ordering materials, liaising with building control/architects, and much more.

8 weeks prior to timber frame on site

Design for timber frame manufacture will be in progress, elements of the structure will be ordered, and the timber frame design will be comprehensively checked for any errors or problems.

PC: To plan works following timber frame completion. To maximise the benefits of timber frame, the PC should have roof covering works scheduled to be onsite straight after timber frame completion. External doors and windows should be installed into the timber frame shell to achieve water tightness. Works on internal insulation and services can be completed whilst external cladding is being erected.

6 weeks prior to timber frame on site

These should be checked for set out, and levels shown in the timber frame drawings. Crane hardstanding will be ready, and scaffold will be planned for completion before the timber frame start date. The timber frame structure will be manufactured in our factory and packed ready for transport to site.

PC: To plan works following timber frame completion. To maximise the benefits of timber frame, the PC should have roof covering works scheduled to be onsite straight after timber frame completion. External doors and windows should be installed into the timber frame shell to achieve water tightness. Works on internal insulation and services can be completed whilst external cladding is being erected.

2 weeks prior to timber frame on site

Working from Cilimu’s construction plans, the sole plate will be installed, squared, and levelled. Ground floor walls will follow, then floor, further walls, and roof structure. When complete, we will run through a comprehensive sign off process with the client and PC to ensure customer satisfaction.

PC: To plan works following timber frame completion. To maximise the benefits of timber frame, the PC should have roof covering works scheduled to be onsite straight after timber frame completion. External doors and windows should be installed into the timber frame shell to achieve water tightness. Works on internal insulation and services can be completed whilst external cladding is being erected.

A typical 3 bedroom house will take Cilimu approximately 2 weeks to complete on site

Then, we hand it over to the Principal Contractor, who will manage the build to completion.

Cilimu will always be available to answer any questions relating to the timber frame, or to help in any other way within our ability.

Curious to see how our previous clients got on with their self-builds? Here, you’ll find our self-build case studies - challenges, wins, and everything in between.

Case Studies

Vernacular family home with open plan living and an array of hosting spaces. The unique design focused on prioritising natural light through windows incorporated in the roof layout and grand openings across the ground floor.

Duration

6 Months

Quantity

5 Bed, 6 Bath

View Case Study

FAQs

If this is your first self-build, or if you’re a seasoned professional wanting to brush up on your knowledge, we’ve answered the questions we get the most.

What are the benefits of building a timber frame house?

Timber frame construction offers several advantages, including:

Speed of construction

The nature of pre-fabricated components enables a rapid build programme that is not adversely affected by inclement weather.

Cost and programme certainty

Offsite construction for onsite installation makes programming and costing more predictable than traditional site-based building methods.

Quality assurance

Stringent factory controls by nature of our ISO9001 quality management accreditation enhances the manufacture of our offsite buildings, delivering a high-performance building envelope.

Energy efficiency

High performance, airtight structures vastly reduce energy consumption for the life of the building.

Design flexibility

With a wide range of innovative products and cladding solutions, timber systems can meet the aspirations of homeowners, designers, and architects.

Sustainability

Cilimu PEFC chain of custody accredited, this means that our timber can be traced, and only comes from accredited sustainable sources. This ensures responsible management of the world’s forests.

Do I need planning permission to build a timber frame house?

Yes, you will typically need planning permission to build a timber frame house.

Regulations vary depending on your location, so it’s important to consult with local authorities or a professional architect who is familiar with the requirements in your area.

How long does it take to build a timber frame house?

The duration of the construction process depends on various factors, such as the size and complexity of the house, the availability of labour, and your level of experience.
On average, a self-build timber frame house can take anywhere from several months to a year or more to complete. Where timber frame really excels compared to other methods of construction is that the superstructure (the timber frame structural element that we provide) can give you a wind and watertight structure within 1-2 weeks, and is less affected by weather conditions during its construction, limiting the possibility of extra costs and delays.

Can I get assistance or guidance while self-building a timber frame house?

Yes, Cilimu can guide you through the process, and help with design, structural considerations, and construction techniques.

Additionally, there are self-build associations, online forums, and books that offer advice, support, and shared experiences from those who have self-built their timber frame houses.
A great place to start is the Structural Timber Association website. They have lots of guidance on self-building a timber frame house.

Can I self-build a timber frame house?

Timber frame is one of the best options for self-builders wanting speedy build times, and a beautiful, energy-efficient home. Many individuals with construction experience or a willingness to learn take on the challenge of building their own homes. However, it requires careful planning, knowledge of construction techniques, and the ability to manage various aspects of the project.

Cilimu has expertise in the full scope of the build, and can guide you through this process.

What skills or knowledge do I need to self-build a timber frame house?

At Cilimu, we use our experience to work in partnership with you.

Some self-builders have prior construction experience and require little support, and others need more. We can offer as much or as little support and guidance as you need. As with any project, it is so important to have the right team around you; a great architect and project manager are a must to make your build a success.

How do I start the process of self-building a timber frame house?

The process must start with thorough planning.

Identifying your budget, finding a plot of land, achieving planning permission, and designing your dream home are the first steps.

Can I build a timber frame house on any type of land?

Timber frame houses can usually be built on any type of land, whether it be flat or sloping terrain.

However, site specific characteristics, such as soil conditions, drainage, and accessibility can affect the construction process. It is important to consult with professionals to assess the suitability of a specific plot to ensure the structural integrity of your timber frame house.

Are there any cost advantages to self-building a timber frame home?

Self-building any home, rather than hiring contractors, offers a cost saving if you are planning to do most of this work yourself.

However, it’s important to consider that mistakes or delays during construction can increase costs, so thorough planning and careful execution are crucial.

Timber frame can offer an advantage over other methods of building, as the panels are manufactured offsite in our factory, often meaning overall build times and labour costs are significantly reduced.

What is passive self-build house design?

Passivhaus is probably the most sustainable, eco-friendly building standard you can find - in the UK, and the world. They’re entirely energy-efficient, whilst still being comfortable and affordable. Find out more here.