As an experienced timber frame specialist, we are always looking for ways to help our customers realise site savings - both in time and cost.
This is why we were the first to partner with Eurocell to offer pre-fitted windows in our FastBuild® timber frame systems - and are currently the only manufacturer to offer this integrated, factory fitted solution.
Eurocell's InSite system comprises a specialist hinge, sealant, cavity barrier and window profile. We can install these fully glazed and finished windows into our timber frame wall panels, as part of the factory production process.
Once delivered to site, the panels can easily be craned into position vertically - because the weight of the window is within the panel - making siting easy and convenient.
This reduces on-site disruption and labour costs whilst speeding up build programme schedules. The whole panel assembly process enables the building to be wind and watertight on day one, meaning interior trades can start work immediately. No waiting for fitters. No worries about scaffolding obstructing window installation. Preparing the windows for external cladding and internal boarding can all be done from the inside of the building – it is as simple as pushing the window out on the specially designed hinge, into the locked position.
As a result, using this product reduces risk on site too. The need to work at height is reduced, as is site traffic - due to there being no separate window deliveries and no manual handling required.
Our managing Director, Malcolm Thomson, says: "We saw the potential in Eurocell's InSite window system very early and realised how beneficial it could be to our customers. It really has been a game changer, saving time in installation, reducing damage and repairs, making buildings watertight and secure earlier, taking the window installation off the critical path and maximising offsite solutions - saving our customers time and money.”
CHAP, one of Scotland’s leading privately owned construction companies, has utilised our FastBuild® ClosedPanel timber frame product with InSite pre-fitted windows, on a development creating 87 new homes in Aberdeen.
Fraser Taylor, Operations Director with CHAP, said: “Kirkwood Timber Frame engaged from early tender stages to look at value engineered off site solutions. Their 10-meter panels reduced erect times and we worked together with Kirkwood - and window supplier Pinefield Glass - to get all windows pre-fitted in the factory - which accelerated wind & water tightness dates. I would have no issues recommending Kirkwood Timber Frame to potential customers.
Complementing the exceptional thermal performance of our timber frame products, the windows deliver excellent U-value performance (between 0.9 to 0.8) helping our customers build warmer and more energy efficient homes.
InSite is of course compliant with relevant Building Regulations and has been approved for use in accordance with the guidelines outlined by the NHBC. It is also the only window system suitable for timber frame that has been fully tested to prevent the spread of fire and smoke from - or to - the cavity.
In summary, by opting for this unique, pre-fitted window option you can:
- Speed up the build process
- Cut window installation costs
- Achieve weather tightness sooner, in turn...
- make follow on trades easier to plan for
- mitigate delays waiting for follow on trades
- benefit from better programme certainty
- Reduce overall site labour required (and as such, costs)
- Reduce on-site risk from handling and working at height
- Create better performing, warmer and more energy efficient homes for the end user
- Work with a tried, tested timber frame specialist with experience and know-how in delivering these products
To find out more about how you can incorporate timber frame with pre-fitted windows on your next project, Contact:
Eoghainn Mitchell: e.mitchell@kirkwoodtimberframe.co.uk
Barbara Massie: barbara.massie@kirkwoodtimberframe.co.uk
Malcolm Thomson: malcolm.thomson@kirkwoodtimberframe.co.uk
