Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a standard ITF Timber Frame Kit Home?
- Heavy Timbers – Skeleton of the structure
- SIP Wall & Roof Paneling
- Pre-finished Siding and Trim
- Pella Windows and Exterior Doors
- Interior Framing Components
- Sub & Loft Floor Systems
- Interior Stairs
- Interior Walls
- Deck Framing & Hand Railings
You can find more information on the materials in our standard timber frame home kit on our “What’s Included” page.
What is not included in a standard ITF Timber Frame Kit Home?
- General Contractor & Associated Fees
- Permitting for Construction
- Rental Equipment (crane, forklift, etc.)
- Site Preparation and Excavation
- Concrete (foundation, etc.)
- All Job Site Labor
- Utilities and Installation
- Garage and Interior Doors
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Lighting Fixtures
- HVAC)
Does ITF Build the Timber Frame Kit?
No. We will design your project, coordinate the structural engineering of the plans, and procure your prefabricated kit/material package, but we are not the builders. We will, however, work with you to vet the builder you choose, capable of assembling our system.
Can I Build The Timber Frame Kit Myself?
Yes, it is common for our kits to be constructed by our clients themselves. Granted that the size and scale of the project are within reason, our kits are a great way to simplify the overall new construction process for an owner-builder.
What is a SIP? Structural Insulated Panel
“SIPs” is the short form for structural insulated panels. These panels are prefabricated and used to assemble the walls and roofs of residential and commercial infrastructure worldwide.
A SIP is constructed using two primary components, OSB Sheathing and Closed Cell Polystyrene insulation. They are cut to shape in an off-site facility and shipped to the job site, ready to be assembled.
There are many benefits of building with SIPs, but here are a few of the primary reasons we included SIPs as a standard in our kits.
- Streamlined Construction
- Maximum Efficiency
- Strength
- Reduction of Waste
- Sound Proofing/Reduction
Want to learn more about the benefits of building with SIPs? Check out the many educational resources available from the Structural Insulated Panel Association.
Do I have to Use SIPs with my Timber Frame Kit?
No, we do not require the use of SIPs in our kits. We can prefabricate standard 2x framing as well.
Can I conventionally frame a Timber Frame Kit?
Yes, when conventionally framing our kit, insulation is not included. You will need to decide upon the insulation of your choice and coordinate with your builder.
What is the difference between Timber Frame and Post And Beam?
Both Timber Frame homes and Post and Beam homes are designed to showcase a striking amount of wood in the structure. While both framing methods have many similarities, there are also distinct differences between the two.
Authentic timber framing utilizes tried and true connection detail, such as mortise and tenon and dovetail joinery. These joints are far more decorative and unique than traditional plated connections.
Post and Beam construction does not utilize hand-hewn connection detail and instead uses modern steel connections to either improve strength, alter the aesthetic, or reduce cost. Recently, many people have been drawn to steel connection detail to amplify a modern aesthetic without compromising the look and feel of traditional exposed wooden elements.
Cost to customize a Timber Frame kit vs purchasing a pre-designed kit?
There is not difference in cost becasue our pricing is based on the total square footage of the structure. The models you see on our site are merely a starting point for the custom kit homes we create for our clients nationwide.
We start with a footprint or layout that suits your needs and design the home to your goals and within your budget. Look at the models on our site as a starting point or inspiration for your dream timber home.
What does it cost to construct a Timber Frame kit home?
The cost of building an ITF kit varies from two to five times the cost of the material package. Owner builders who construct the kit and use moderate finishes will see the most cost savings. If you are to hire a general contractor for a dirt-to-doorknob turnkey build using high-end finishes, you are going to be pushing that 5x range. Ultimately, you are in the driver’s seat.
Do you sell your plans separately?
Yes, we sell our plans without needing to purchase the kit. You can either reach out directly through the Contact page on our site, or purchase the PDF set of plans from our online shop, Integrity Home Design.
Where does ITF Build Kit Homes?
We ship our packages to all 50 states! We are not the builder rather a design specialist, material supplier, and project coordinator. Therefore, you will need to hire a local contractor to assemble and complete the structure’s interior.
How much do Timber Frame Home Kits cost?
The cost of our kits varies based on several different factors (overall size, snow load, insulation, the complexity of design), but we typically see the price range from $80 to $130 per square foot.
How long does the process typically take?
Lead times vary throughout the year with some seasonal trends in the building industry. Throughout the late fall and early winter, our lead time ranges from 6-to 8 weeks. Meaning that once your design is completed, it will take roughly 6 to 8 weeks to prefabricate the materials and have them shipped to the job site. Early spring through late fall is considered the primary building season, and projects that enter the queue during this time frame typically have a lead time of 12-14 weeks.
Do you design custom Timber Frame kit homes as well?
Nearly all of the homes we have shipped across the country have been custom designed. The kits you see on our website are meant to act as inspiration and a starting point to help bring your design to life.
We do not charge an extra fee to customize our designs as we expect all of our clients to want to modify the plans to some degree.
Where are you located?
We are located in Estacada, Oregon, right in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.
Can you work with plans I already know?
Yes, we can, but there is rarely a cost-saving associated with using pre-existing plans. Our design team will spend considerable time tweaking those plans to fit our system.