Question 1

How is Hyem Frames different from a conventional timber frame system?

Accepted Answer

Traditional timber frame construction often relies on multiple layers and additional insulation systems to achieve the required thermal performance. Hyem Frames integrates structure, insulation, and airtightness into a single coordinated system using engineered EcoBox studs and wood fibre insulation.
The result is a simpler wall build-up with fewer interfaces, reduced thermal bridging, improved buildability, and more consistent performance.

Question 2

Can Hyem Frames be used with traditional external materials such as brick and stone?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The system has been developed to work with a wide range of external finishes, including facing brickwork, natural stone, render systems, timber cladding, and rainscreen façades.
This flexibility allows architects to retain the desired aesthetic and respond to local planning requirements while benefiting from the performance advantages of a modern timber frame system.

Question 3

At what stage should I engage with Hyem Frames?

Accepted Answer

The earlier the better. Early engagement allows us to review wall build-ups, structural requirements, thermal performance targets, and construction sequencing before key decisions become fixed.
However, we can also support projects that are already through planning or progressing through technical design, helping to refine details, improve buildability, and optimise the building fabric without compromising the architectural intent.

Question 4

Does a high-performance wall require more materials?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. A key principle behind Hyem Frames is achieving better performance through smarter integration rather than simply adding more layers. The EcoBox system uses material efficiently, reduces thermal bridging, and can simplify wall construction by consolidating insulation within the structural zone. This helps reduce overall material demand while delivering excellent thermal performance.

Question 5

Will a timber frame system speed up construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The panelised nature of the system means large sections of the building envelope are manufactured off-site and delivered ready for installation. This improves quality control, reduces on-site labour requirements, shortens programme durations, and helps create a weather-tight structure more quickly than many traditional methods.

Question 6

Is Hyem Frames more expensive than a conventional timber frame?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. While the initial frame package may differ from a conventional timber frame, it is important to consider the performance and construction benefits of the system as a whole.
Hyem Frames is designed to simplify the building fabric by integrating structure and insulation into a coordinated system. This can reduce the number of materials, construction stages, and interfaces required to achieve the desired level of performance.

In many cases, the additional investment in the frame itself can be offset through:

Reduced material requirements elsewhere in the wall build-up
Faster installation and improved programme certainty
Reduced thermal bridging and improved building performance
Fewer site coordination issues and less construction complexity

The most meaningful comparison is not the cost of the frame in isolation, but the cost and performance of the completed wall system and building envelope.

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