A Visual Tour of Our Timber Frame Manufacturing Facility in Keighley, West Yorkshire
From Digital Concept to Finished Reality
Every project begins long before timber reaches the factory floor. Our in-house design team converts architectural drawings into a fully engineered 3D model, allowing the client to see exact renderings of how the completed timber frame will look once erected on site.
These digital models guide the entire manufacturing process, ensuring complete accuracy from the first cut to the final panel.
At TimberCraft Structures, we’re proud to open the doors to our to our timber frame manufacturing facility in Keighley for a behind-the-scenes look at how a full timber frame superstructure is brought to life — from digital design to precision machining to factory assembly.
This article takes you on a guided, visual tour of the full process using photos, videos, and renderings from our latest project:
110 sqM closed-panel timber frame home for our private client, in Chapel Allerton, Leeds.
Precision Cutting: Stromab CT 600 Saw
Once the design is signed off, production begins at our dedicated timber processing station.
Our Stromab CT 600 cross-cut saw forms the heart of our cutting operation.
This high-precision machine:
- Cuts every timber section to exact programmed measurements
- Prints a unique identification code onto each piece
- Ensures perfect traceability for both factory assembly and site erection
- Eliminates cutting errors and speeds up production
Factory Assembly: Where the Frame Comes Together
With all timber sections prepared, the panels move into our assembly area, powered by our JJ Smith/MBA X-Combi complete assembly machine.
This advanced system enables us to manufacture closed-panel and open panel timber frames with consistency and efficiency. Each panel is built up as follows:
- Panels are assembled on the X-Combi programmable framing table
- Top and bottom plates are accurately aligned
- Studs are positioned and nailed by hand for total control
- Cross members complete the structural layout
OSB Sheathing
High-quality airtightness OSB is fixed to the panels, providing rigidity and structural performance.
Premium Insulation
Because the Chapel Allerton site has strict space constraints, we selected Kingspan Kooltherm PU insulation to deliver maximum thermal performance with minimal thickness.
Typical Passive House-level wall build-ups can be >400mm but we have had to work within the constraints of the site, but also inline with the BC regulations in relation to fire risk.
Breather Membrane & Mark-Ups
- Finished panels are wrapped in client requested Tyvek Housewrap breather membrane.
- A clear black stud line is marked on the membrane so the erection team knows exactly where studs are located once on site
This attention to detail ensures a seamless transition between factory precision and on-site assembly.
What the Finished Frame Will Deliver
Once erected, the complete superstructure will provide:
110 sqM of internal living space
Made from factory-engineered panels working together as a single, airtight, energy-efficient shell.
A Team Effort Worth Celebrating
This project has been one of the most complex frame designs we’ve manufactured to date, and we’re incredibly proud of the team for delivering it to such a high standard.
A massive congratulations to our Managing Director, Tony Podmore, and the entire TimberCraft Structures staff for their craftsmanship, problem-solving, and commitment to excellence.
With the frame now complete, we’ll soon be sharing photos and videos from the site as the structure is erected in Chapel Allerton.
Project Details
Client: Ian Collins, Mesh Architects
Site: Victoria Street, Chapel Allerton
Manufactured by: TimberCraft Structures, Keighley
Thank You to Our Suppliers
We couldn’t deliver this level of quality without our trusted supply partners:
Hanson Plywood – Airtight SmartPly with integrated resin airtight layer
Arnold Laver Timber – Timber materials
Encon Insulation & Neville Young – Membranes
JJ Smith / MBA Woodworking Factory Solutions – X-Combi complete panel assembly machine