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Your guide to our self-build process

Designing your own home is the most gratifying experience. If you’re new to the process, you likely have questions around the steps to take, timelines and available support. While the process looks different for everyone, we’ve compiled a general outline of what to expect. Keep reading to learn more about the self build process so you can feel confident that this is the right approach for you.

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What is self build?

A self build home means that you will be the go-to for all decisions and planning throughout your home’s construction. This means you get to browse plots, choose the one you fall in love with, and craft your home in your own way.

It’s an exciting process, but we’re aware it may feel overwhelming - especially when you’re only just embarking on your journey. You can choose to liaise with various trades and suppliers, if you prefer, ordering materials and managing the timelines. Alternatively, you can take a step back and work with your chosen supplier as they handle the construction.

If this is new to you, then we’ve outlined the process below so you have a good idea of what to expect.

Your step-by-step guide through our design process

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Initial meeting

Our House Specialist will be in touch to arrange a meeting with you, to discuss your needs and aspirations for your build. If design and planning are required, you will be introduced to our Architectural team, who will provide a free desktop study. This is where we research the likelihood of gaining planning on your plot and help determine the best planning strategy.

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Architectural process

Our Architectural team will work with you to design your dream home. From the initial research of your plot and planning applications to the floor plans and elevations, we’ll help you find the right path for you. We’ll even create your Building Regulations package once planning is approved. Read more about our Architectural Services.

Conceptual oak frame design

Our estimating team will develop a conceptual oak frame design using the Architectural design for your home. The conceptual design will incorporate any specific features that you wish to include, such as truss designs, braces, oak rafters and porches, as well as our beautiful face glazing and provisional designs for an insulation panel system.

Your quotation for our products and services

Once you are happy with your design, your Homes Specialist will provide you with a quotation. This will include the volume of oak required for your project, along with your selected pre insulated panel system and complementary products such as joists, face glazing, joinery and weatherboarding. If you have chosen services such as Turnkey Project Management and AeroBarrier Technology, these will also be included in your quote at this stage.

Find out about our Pre Insulated Panel Systems

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Introduction to your dedicated team

After signing your contract for our products and services, your Regional Homes Specialist will introduce you to your dedicated design, production and site team members. They’ll be there at your every beck and call, ready to support you as and when you need.

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Your 3D model review

You'll be invited to visit our show home, 'The Woodhouse', for a walk-through of your 3D digital model. This working meeting is where your project begins to come to life. You'll review and finalise design requirements and consider your build in detail. It's also an ideal opportunity to invite your main contractor along to align all involved in your project. A relaxing stay at our show home will also allow you time to gather your thoughts before your build gathers pace.

Visit our show home

Design refinement

2D drawings will be sent to you, your building regulations team member, and/or contractor for approval. Once approved, all our drawings are shared with an independent structural engineer for scheme checking and approval. When the design is signed off, further detailed design work continues. This will include virtual carpentry jointing, where timbers are digitally joined using traditional green oak carpentry joints.

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Production

Once your designs are finalised, your project manager will be your main point of contact. Materials will be ordered, and your oak frame and panel system will go through production, being ready for site in around three months. During this time, your builder will need to dig your foundations, according to the masonry levels plan. Your Oakwrights Project Manager will liaise with your builder to help with the smooth running of your project.

On site

Your Oakwrights project manager will visit you on site to measure your floor pad (your prepared plot) to ensure it is safe and correct to receive your oak frame and panel system. Once they have signed this off, they will welcome the 40-ton crane and its driver to site, helping unload the lorries and assist the site crew to safely assemble your new home.

Settle into your new home

When all construction is complete and your oak frame is perfectly assembled, you can start one of the most exciting bits - moving into your new home! You can shuffle your furniture around, pop the champagne and walk through a house that you designed - a home that is an extension of you.

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How long does a self build take?

The timeline of a self build home will be dependent on your design, suppliers and contractors, and the smooth running of your project - to name a few.

You want to feel excited throughout the process and ensure that all parties are aligned. Everyone involved in your build will want to support you with as few hiccups as possible, which is why a self build can take time. The key is remembering all that is waiting for you at the end - your patience will be worth that first step through your front door.

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Time to take the leap?

Whether you envision a cottage in the idyllic countryside or a clean, contemporary family home, designing a house from scratch will feel even more gratifying if you’ve managed the build yourself. A self build project is perfect for those struggling to find their dream home, are keen for a new adventure, or want to maximise the value of their land.

Every leader needs a strong team behind them. We’re armed with years of experience, leading timber-cutting technologies, ready to support you at a moment’s notice. If you’re ready to get started, browse our available plots or speak to our team today.

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