FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Here are some common questions about our timber framing services. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, feel free to contact us at Southern.Manor.Co@gmail.com or call (803) 297-2300.

General Questions

1. What if I don’t live in New England?
No problem! We work on projects across the United States and parts of Canada. While there are added travel expenses for projects outside our immediate area, we’ve completed work as far south as South Carolina and Tennessee and throughout New England and the Mid-Atlantic states. No matter where you’re located, we’re ready to bring your vision to life.

2. Can I customize my barn or timber frame design?
Absolutely! Each project is tailored to your specific needs. We categorize our designs into two main types:

  • Utility Structures: Ideal for barns, garages, storage buildings, and other non-heated outbuildings.

  • Habitable Structures: Includes timber frame homes, offices, insulated workshops, and other buildings requiring heating, plumbing, and HVAC systems.

Habitable buildings require more detailed planning and collaboration, as they involve additional systems like insulation, electrical work, and plumbing. We’ll guide you through the process and can partner with a General Contractor to ensure every aspect of your project is completed to the highest standards.

Scope of Work

3. How much of the project does Southern Manor Co. handle?
We offer flexible services based on your project’s needs. Here’s how we typically approach timber framing projects:

  • Design and Budget: We collaborate with you to design your timber frame, create construction drawings, and secure necessary permits.

  • Excavation and Foundation: We can coordinate with local excavation and foundation contractors or work with those you’ve selected. We remain involved to ensure accuracy and quality.

  • Raising the Frame: This is often the most exciting phase! Depending on the size and complexity of the frame, raising can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

  • Building Enclosure: For utility structures, we can oversee roof boards, siding, trim, windows, and doors. For habitable structures, we can install Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) or work with your General Contractor to manage additional trades like electrical and plumbing.

4. Can you collaborate with my General Contractor?
Yes, we often partner with General Contractors, either one you select or one we recommend, to handle the full scope of a habitable structure. This ensures the entire project, from framing to finishing, runs smoothly.

Timeline

5. How long will my project take?
Timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of your project:

  • Design, Permits & Timbers: Using a pre-designed template can expedite the design process. Once finalized, construction drawings and permit approvals can take several weeks. Ordering timbers may take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on availability.

  • Prefabrication & Raising: Prefabrication in our shop typically takes 6-8 weeks for a standard 30x40 frame. On-site raising usually takes about a week.

  • Enclosure: Closing in a utility structure of similar size may take about a month. A habitable structure could take anywhere from 6 months to a year to complete, depending on its complexity and the involvement of additional systems.

Costs and Estimates

6. How can I get a ballpark estimate for my build?
The best way to receive a ballpark estimate is to provide detailed information about your project, including:

  • Building use (utility vs. habitable)

  • Square footage

  • Site conditions

  • Desired wood species

  • Budget

You can fill out our Project Inquiry Form, which helps guide you through these considerations. Once submitted, we’ll follow up to discuss your project in detail and provide a ballpark estimate.

7. Do you have pricing for generic barn styles?
Yes, we offer a pricing sheet for our generic barn styles, which can give you a starting point. This price sheet includes costs for the timber frame itself but does not account for foundation, excavation, roofing, or travel expenses. Costs can vary significantly based on customization, site conditions, and whether the structure is utility or habitable.

Next Steps

8. How do I get started?
If you’re ready to begin your timber frame journey, contact us at Southern.Manor.Co@gmail.com or call (803) 297-2300. We’ll guide you through every step, from design to completion, to ensure your project exceeds your expectations.