help and guidance - block or timber frame s/s extension

[madgeni]

Hi there -
we're at the start of our s/s rear extension (groundwork started this week). The builder has said he wants to switch from block built to a timber frame build, with an outer skin of hardboard - which we'll ultimately render in monocouche.

I'm a complete novice to the building trade, but the switch fills me with suspicion - does timber frame with this outer skin make sense? Is it cheaper (i can see it's faster), does it have the longevity - am i worryingly too much?

All advice most welcome!

 

[^woody^]

A hardboard outer skin? Is he mad?

 

[noseall]

I can see where a timber framed building with a masonry clad outer skin is beneficial but not where the OUTER skin is timber.

Particularly one that is being rendered.

Hardboard...really?

 

[madgeni]

Thanks, I've asked for more details. He mentioned 'hardy' boards? Does that make any difference?

 

[^woody^]

It sounds to me that your builder does not have a clue about building. Hardy boards (ie HardieBacker boards) are for bathrooms!

You need to be vary careful with timber framed buildings at the best of times, to make sure that they are properly built with accurate detailing to prevent the frame rotting from damp

Are building control involved in this work?

 

[madgeni]

Ok, am deeply concerned now then. It feels like he's doing this to a) speed up the job, and b) sell me short.

 

[madgeni]

Will have the spec tomorrow, which should give me all the detail. What can you use as outer skin on a timber frame, other than brick?

Really appreciating your help here fellas

 

[^woody^]

You can use lots of things, but its not just a case of building a frame and sticking something on the outside.

The detailing is very important and is not for the clueless

I'm sure that there are some detailed sketches in other posts on here. Use the search

 

[themiddleagedun]

By the time he's orderded the frame, waited for delivery and erected it, he could of built it twice with brick & block...

There's nothing wrong with timber frame at all, but can't see why your builder would want to use it on a extension...? Just seems too much off a faff.

 

[madgeni]

I get the feeling they will be making the frame themselves.

 

[tony1851]

Are they eastern European, by chance?