The Benefits of Offsite Manufacture for Self Builders

The Structural Timber Association shares why having your package home created in a factory comes with lots of advantages

by Structural Timber Association

29th January 2024

Many package homes are fabricated in a factory away from your building site, a process known as offsite manufacture. Systems such as timber frame, structural insulated panels and oak frame are all delivered this way. Commissioning the insulated shell of your home offsite delivers enhanced energy efficiency, short construction timescales and guaranteed build quality that can lead to reduced running costs.

As well as that, innovation in offsite manufacturing from intelligent, integrated construction methods – such as closed panel timber frame and structural insulated panels – is driving things forward, giving you more choice than the classic kit systems.

A Technologically-Advanced Build Route

Offsite construction describes structural systems that are factory-manufactured to an advanced level. This allows for onsite assembly (as opposed to construction) via controlled installation processes.

The Benefits of Offsite Manufacture for Self Builders

SIP Build UK supplied the structural insulated panels for this project, creating a beautiful and thermally efficient home. The company is an STA Assure gold member

Exact levels of prefabrication can vary, from factory-fitted insulation and pre-cut service channels through to panels that come complete with windows and doors already installed. Even internal finishes and external cladding can be pre-applied – especially where volumetric modular construction techniques are used.

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6 Benefits of Offsite Manufacture

Speed of construction The high degree of factory prefabrication enables a rapid build process, which will not be adversely influenced by bad weather.
Build cost & programme certainty Offsite construction simplifies the installation process on site, making scheduling and costing more predictable than with traditional building methods.
Quality assurance Stringent factory quality control ensures the precision manufacture of the structural elements, so you get a modern, high-performance structural envelope for your scheme.
Energy usage Offsite construction offers thermally efficient, highly airtight structures which can vastly reduce the building’s future energy consumption.
Design flexibility With a wide range of innovative products and cladding solutions available, timber systems can meet the design aspirations of both architects and self builders.
Sustainability All Structural Timber Association members use timber from PEFC or FSC certified sources, which ensures continued responsible management of the world’s forests.

With standards for energy efficiency constantly ramping up, the construction industry as a whole is facing a real challenge to create homes that achieve the actual performance specified in the design brief. The accuracy and control involved in using timber-based offsite technology overcomes this issue.

An offsite-manufactured timber floor cassette being craned into position

A closed panel timber frame project by Scotframe

Your offsite manufacturer is likely to specialise in a specific type of structural system, which will be a tried and tested method that they’ve perfected – so you should be able to expect the house to perform as planned.

Kingspan Timber Solutions was behind the offsite manufactured timber frame of this stunning new property

The controlled factory conditions also eliminate the risk of mistakes on site, meaning jobs won’t need to be completed twice. Offsite manufacture is not perfect for every project, of course, and you will need to ascertain whether it’s right for you by discussing with your architect and system provider. However, when you look at all the benefits and measure whole- life value, offsite structural timber systems are a cost-effective option.

Offsite manufactured structural timber systems have advanced greatly in recent years, offering genuine cost, programme and performance assurance for self builders – especially when backed by the STA’s Quality Assurance Scheme (STA Assure). Providing confidence in the use of structural timber and determining member competency and compliance, the scheme is recognised by self build warranty providers, as well as other key stakeholders.

By using an STA member to deliver your self build project you will be assured that they meet or even exceed current standards and regulatory requirements. We have members who focus solely on the self build market and will support you through the whole design and build process. To find out more about the Structural Timber Association or search for STA Assure member suppliers, visit the STA’s website.