Kirkwood Timber Frame Partners with Eurocell

Kirkwood Timber Frame has identified ways to help customers realise on-site savings, by being the first to partner with Eurocell, providing pre-fitted windows in its FastBuild timber frame systems.

Eurocell is currently the only manufacturer to offer this integrated, factory fitted solution, across the UK. Its InSite system comprises a specialist hinge, sealant, cavity barrier, and window profile. Kirkwood can install these fully glazed and finished windows into its timber frame wall panels as part of the factory production process.

Once delivered to site, the panels can easily be craned into position vertically, because the weight of the window is within the panel, making siting easy and convenient.

This reduces on-site disruption and labour costs whilst speeding up build programme schedules. The whole panel assembly process enables the building to be wind and watertight on day one, meaning interior trades can start work immediately. No waiting for fitters. No worries about scaffolding obstructing window installation.

Preparing the windows for external cladding and internal boarding can all be done from the inside of the building – it is as simple as pushing the window out on the specially designed hinge, into the locked position.

As a result, using the product reduces risk on site too. The need to work at height is reduced, as is site traffic – due to there being no separate window deliveries and no manual handling required.

Kirkwood Timber Frame Managing Director, Malcolm Thomson, said: “We saw the potential in Eurocell’s InSite window system very early and realised how beneficial it could be to our customers. It really has been a game changer, saving time in installation, reducing damage and repairs, making buildings watertight and secure earlier, taking the window installation off the critical path and maximising offsite solutions – saving our customers time and money.”

CHAP, one of Scotland’s leading privately owned construction companies, has utilised the product, on a development creating 87 new homes in Aberdeen.

Fraser Taylor, Operations Director with CHAP, added: “Kirkwood Timber Frame engaged from early tender stages to look at value engineered off site solutions. Their 10-meter panels reduced erect times, and we worked together with Kirkwood – and window supplier Pinefield Glass – to get all windows pre-fitted in the factory – which accelerated wind & water tightness dates. I would have no issues recommending Kirkwood Timber Frame to potential customers.”

Complementing the thermal performance of Kirkwood’s timber frame products, the windows are said to deliver excellent U-value performance (between 0.9 to 0.8) helping its customers build warmer and more energy efficient homes.

InSite is compliant with relevant Building Regulations and has been approved for use in accordance with the guidelines outlined by the NHBC. It is also the only window system suitable for timber frame that has been fully tested to prevent the spread of fire and smoke from – or to – the cavity.

For more information, please visit: https://www.kirkwoodtimberframe.co.uk/