Timber Frame Design and Checking Services

A Full Service

Cowan Consultancy Limited has been involved in timber frame technology for over 20 years. Over this period we have developed analysis and design software to enable structural calculations to be prepared for individual designs both swiftly and with thoroughness. Use of the system results in significant savings being made in timber quantities and therefore reduces the overall cost of the building being designed. All our in-house calculations are produced in this manner, following receipt of suitable drawings/details from the client.

Alternatively, we can offer a checking only service of calculations and drawings prepared by others.  David Button is an approved NHBC Certifier and can provide HB353B certificates where required. Please contact us for further details or a quotation.

TIMFRAM™: Integrated Analysis and Design of Timber Framed Structures

TIMFRAM™, based on the ever popular and powerful Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet program, offers a simple but efficient method of producing calculations for the design of almost any timber framed buildings with the exception of glulam portals. The software is offered to manufacturers of timber frame structures in conjunction with Cowan Consultancy Limited providing independent checking of calculations, drawings and details. Due to our familiarity with the system, savings are offered against checking and certification services. Alternatively the software is available for use by designers with support and training provided by us.

Thorough use of all structural elements and B.S. factors achieves the most economic design available.

Easy to Use

All inputs are via easy to understand pro-forma spreadsheets that calculate and return factors of safety. All aspects of design are covered:

• Building dimensions linked throughout
• Wind loading calculated to B.S. 5268:pt.2:1996
• Individual wall loading for maximum economy
• Racking calculations including full use of wind coefficients and factors
• Floor joist design allowing inputs of numerous loading cases to B.S. 6399:pt.1
• Timber beam design for simply supported, single and double cantilevers including flitch beams and I beams
• Structural stud design including allowance for sheathing assistance
• Lintel and cripple stud design
• Stability analysis and fixing design
• Disproportionate collapse

Easy to Learn

Although a good basic knowledge of engineering and structures is essential the user need not be a computer wizard! TIMFRAM™ is easy to understand and therefore quick to pick up and remember, even for the occasional user. No complex file command or entries are required, just plain inputs.

Updating

TIMFRAM™ is constantly refined and upgraded. Our approach to upgrading is very much user driven, therefore feedback is always appreciated.

All revisions to the relevant British Standards are addressed and upgrades issued free of charge (based on an annual support agreement being taken out). The system is designed to run the TRADA recognised Platform method of construction. Our latest update, Release XVa, has just been completed which allows the user to include the option to design buildings of up to six storeys. In conjunction with this, Release XVa also accommodates the latest requirements for disproportionate collapse.

Requirements

TIMFRAM ™ utilises Microsoft Excel® 2000 or higher on Microsoft Windows 98® or higher.

Interested?

Fee tables are available for timber frame design and checking services and for the TIMFRAM™ software licence and support agreements. If you require a leaflet on TIMFRAM ™ or further information on any of our Timber Frame services please contact our Timber Frame Department using our Contact Form or telephone 01489 577488.