The Cost of Timber Frames Homes

If you have ever watched a stick-built home go up, you may either be surprised or appalled by how flimsy these materials often appear to be. They do not embody the idea of a strong and safe home. Because of this, more homeowners are turning to timber frame homes. These homes do cost more than the average stick-built homes, but come with the added benefits of a higher-quality build and better energy efficiency.

The Cost Per Square Foot

Homes benefit from economies of scale just as other projects do. Put simply, the larger a home, the less money homeowners tend to be pay per square-foot. The design of the home and the conditions under which the home is being built also affects prices. Because of this, it can be difficult to give a general cost. That said, builders estimate that homeowners could pay as little as $200 per square foot or as much as over $400 per square foot.

The Effect of Design Finishes

One of the biggest contributors to overall cost is the design finishes. The shell of timber frame homes will almost always be more expensive than stick-built homes, but design finishes can make the stick-built home more expensive. When timber frame houses follow a simpler, open design concept with no dormers or highly customized spaces, homeowners save a lot of money.

Lower Maintenance Costs

When considering the cost of a home, you should also consider the maintenance cost. Timber frame builders often create a thermal envelope using high R-value insulation systems and Structural Insulated Panels. This is what makes these homes so energy efficient. When homes cost less to cool and heat, homeowners get to pocket a few hundred dollars or more per year.

Remember that even though timber frame homes usually cost more than stick-frame houses, there are other factors to consider. The size, shape, site, design and interior finishes also have a big impact on the final price.