Redrow Redrow to build timber homes due to concrete block shortage
Redrow is building 200 timber-framed homes in a Cambridgeshire-based regeneration scheme to address a shortage of concrete blocks and speed up the build process. Although the use of timber comes at a higher cost to Redrow, the time saved on the project will recoup savings, according to Tonia Tyler, sales director for Redrow in the south Midlands. Four-bedroom homes at the Alconbury Weald development are priced from £339,950 ($441,969) and available in a range of styles. Already home to a school, gym and café, the neighbourhood will soon receive a community park, a play facility and a shop.

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TIMBER frames are being used in the construction of new Redrow homes in Cambridgeshire offering a sustainable solution to a supply shortage while speeding up the build process.

Redrow is building 200 homes as part of the wider Alconbury Weald regeneration scheme, north of Huntingdon.

The use of timber frames means buyers should find that not only will their home be built quicker, enabling them to move sooner, they will also be able to decorate immediately.

Tonia Tyler, sales director for Redrow Homes (South Midlands), said: “A lot of people who’ve enquired about the homes we’re building at Alconbury Weald have been surprised to learn that we’re using timber frames.

“One of the reasons we’ve reverted to this traditional method is to overcome a shortage of concrete blocks, but it’s also a fast, reliable and sustainable technique enabling each home to be made watertight quicker so the components aren’t exposed to the elements.”

The UK Timber Frame Association says early hardwood timber frame properties date back to medieval and Tudor times; while softwood timber frame homes have been built in increasing numbers since the 18th century.

In timber frame homes, concrete blockwork in the external walls is replaced by a structural insulated timber frame, which supports all the loads.

“At Alconbury Weald the timber frames will be cladded with bricks or render, so from the external skin it would be difficult for people to tell what method had been used to construct the property,” Tonia said.

While the use of timber frame comes at an extra cost to Redrow, the company believes that the ensuing benefits and time saved make it worthwhile both to them and to customers.

“The advantage of the frames being precision-engineered under factory conditions is that room dimensions are more accurate, which is useful for fitting kitchens or carpets. Plus, because a ‘dry’ plasterboard lining system is used our homeowners can decorate straight away, without having to wait for the property to dry out first.”

Redrow’s current availability at Alconbury Weald includes four-bedroom homes in a choice of styles, priced from £339,950.

The new neighbourhood is already home to a new school, gym and café, with a community park, play facility and shop coming soon.