FAQs

Is there any geographical limit to your business?

We are happy to supply buildings throughout the UK and also in mainland Europe. The additional transport cost from our workshop in Southern England and assembly cost on site will not add significantly to the value of the overall project.

What is so special about Oak?

Oak has a number of characteristics which make it ideal for buildings. It combines strong aesthetic appeal, with remarkable strength and durability as evidenced by the large number of old oak buildings still standing. These characteristics enable it to be used for creating open internal spaces without the need for structural walls. As the unseasoned ‘green’ oak ages, the oak contracts thereby tightening the joints and strengthening the structure further.

Are Oak Buildings good for the environment?

We ensure that all our timber comes from well managed sustainable woodlands. In addition, there is very little energy used in converting the timber into the building structure relative to the cost of making masonry products. The carbon emissions of an oak framed building are therefore much lower than other structures.

How long does it take to erect a building?

This will naturally depend on the size of the building, but most structures can be erected in less than 1 week and almost all within 2 weeks at which point you will have a wind and waterproof structure. The groundworks take about XX days and will need to set for about XX days before building work can begin.

Is the whole building made from Oak?

Our frames are made entirely from Oak. The weatherboarding, which is generally used to finish the exterior is normally treated softwood and we can provide either oak or softwood finishes for the doors and staircases and other features.

Do I need planning permission for an oak framed building?

Generally, yes. While the rules seem complex (some would say arbitrary) and often localized, we are able to give reliable advice on what is likely to get through the system and help influence the final design specification accordingly. Generally, there is an acceptance that an appropriately sized outbuilding can be erected in the curtilage of a home, but it is more difficult to get permission for a self contained dwelling. While it is not in our interest to put forward designs which will fall foul of the authorities, we have extensive experience of fighting your corner to get what you want. We provide a refundable fixed cost service to get planning consent which is great value given the amount of work now involved.

What other regulations are relevant?

Every building  must adhere to Building Regulations which govern the structural properties of the building. Our structural engineers calculate these which are provided as part of our overall service. Where buildings have a floor area greater than 30m sq, it is necessary to submit a Building Notice to the local Authority with a fee.

How long does an oak framed building last?

An oak framed building should last a few hundred years and should certainly be distinguished from other lower cost timber buildings which are lucky to last a generation.

Is any maintenance required?

Oak is extremely durable against both rot and infestation and so doesn’t need special treatment. Softwoods supplied by us are pressure treated against rot and infestation and subsequent treatment should be carried out every 6 years or so.

Can you attach an oak framed building to a house?

Yes

Can you build an oak framed building on any site?

Pretty much….Planning restrictions may influence the size of any such building and access and ground conditions may also have an impact of what can be done but we can evaluate such factors fairly easily.

Does an oak framed building add value to my property?

While value can be influenced by a number of factors, we are confident that an InaSanctum outbuilding will significantly improve the aesthetics and enjoyment of a property and, as a result, will add value in excess of the cost of the building. This should be true whether you replace a dilapidated outbuilding or simply utilize spare space on your property.

What have your buildings been used for to date?

Our buildings are ideal for any activity which benefits from open spaces so have been commissioned for a wide range of uses such as annexes, barns, pool houses, garages, garden rooms, garden offices, sporting pavilions, guest or nanny accommodation, studios and gyms.

What about interior fittings, insulation and heating?

While many clients choose to use a local builder for this work, we are happy to extend our work to include fittings, insulation and heating.