Carpenter Oak & Woodland has an established methodology for conservation, restoration and repair projects – something which underpins the success of our work.

With something as important and delicate as the conservation, restoration or repair of a timber frame, it’s important to work to high standards.

We start with an oak timber frame conservation survey, to accurately determine the scope and nature of the work required. Working from a written survey report ensures that work is undertaken in the most appropriate and effective way.

Before commencing work

Before any conservation or restoration work starts, we ensure that the client has the necessary consents – vital when dealing with listed buildings or buildings of historical importance. Often, the building will have to be stripped of its roof and wall cladding – and scaffolding erected, so that there is clear access to the timber frames.

Work on site and at our own locations

Conservation and restoration work is typically undertaken on site or we may remove parts of the oak frame to work on them at one of our locations in England or Scotland – or use a combination of both approaches. We will frequently work on very badly damaged or distorted timbers, restore timbers which are missing or beyond repair – and even straighten up oak frames which have, over time, developed a serious lean.

Improving the oak frame, where needed

Modern building standards may place more of a structural demand on the oak frame than was previously the case – for example, where roofs may weigh more because of a roof build-up. In these cases, the oak frame will need to be strengthened – which might be entirely oak timber repair work or could involve hidden steelwork.