At the heart of the frame making process are the frame designers who not only design the 'look' of the frame, but also the numerous joints that hold the structure together. Because of the nature of how we work, frame design is as much a part of the production method as the actual fabrication itself. Each frame designer must therefore have a thorough understanding of the specialist software on which the frame is designed, and also have extensive knowledge of oak framing. Addressing the equally important issues of structural integrity and aesthetic appeal is paramount to the success of the eventual design. That is why all our trainees go through a thorough induction in both the workshop and on-site. In the majority of projects the frame designer will become the 'steward' of the project. Their in-depth knowledge of the frame is valuable in both the fabrication and the erection processes and the designer may well help guide its progress through the workshop and go on site with the frame to assist in it s erection. All our new frame designers are carefully mentored in our design 'crèche' by an experienced senior designer and an ongoing programme of assessment and improvement is imbedded in the department's culture.
When a contract has been signed a frame designer will be allocated to the project. They will be given a thorough brief from the sales person. It is important that all parties are clear at this stage as to what is expected in the frame design. Mistakes or omissions caused by misunderstandings can cause delays, sometimes at a cost to one or all parties. That is why we communicate at the beginning of the design stage with the client to ascertain whether anything has changed since the signing of the contract. Throughout the design stage the frame designer will keep in contact, asking questions where necessary to clarify design issues. As the design progresses the principal issues of sizes, loading, spans and jointing will be addressed. Depending on the size and complexity of the structure, this process may take on average between a week and a month although in some extreme cases it may take a little longer. Once the designs are finished copies of the design are sent to the client to be 'signed off'. We encourage the client to visit our offices for the designer to fly them through their frame. Any amendments required can then quickly be talked through.
Once we have received signed off copies of the frame it will be jointed by the designer and then passed on for checking by another designer. When finally satisfied the drawings are sent to an independent indemnified engineer who undertakes the structural calculations. A copy of these calculations and approval will be passed on to the client and these are needed for building control. The designer will then swiftly convert the design frame drawings into machine files and compile a set of fully dimensioned fabrication drawings for the workshop. At the same time a timber-cutting list is produced and sent to the mill.
< Back to Design & Build