south facing extensions will be exposed to the full day’s sun, whereas a northern light will be ‘cooler and sharper’. It’s no coincidence that many artists prefer a north facing light in their studios. Equally, if you are an early riser and love the
idea of that morning cuppa looking over the garden, then east facing extensions work well, whereas a west facing garden room will make sure you enjoy any glowing sunsets. You can also factor in any shading, whether
that be overshadowing from nearby buildings or from trees or larger shrubs on the site. With the latter you also have to consider the implications of tree roots on foundations, leaves blocking gutters and how you clean a glass roof of bird droppings. When it comes to oak frame buildings or extensions, there is one other factor to consider in the method of glazing the windowpane into the frame. With normal casement windows and doors this is straightforward, but with the larger expanses of glass and full wall panels of glazing, there are different options for either surface glazing or direct glazing and it is important to work with a manufacturer that understands the technical implications. Essentially, oak frame structures are built with
‘green oak’, which simply means that the timber will move slightly (shrink and expand) as the moisture content in the wood fibre changes. This has no impact on the structural integrity and strength of the frame, as this is all carefully assessed in the design calculations.
However, glass is of course a very rigid mate-
rial, and if installed incorrectly it could impose forces on the glass as the timber moves, which at worst may mean the glass cracks or shatters, or at least leaves gaps for cold air draughts or rain water ingress. Leading manufacturers have developed proprietary ways of overcoming these challenges, so the glazing can be directly fitted into large frame sections, giving aesthetically appealing ‘walls of glass’, which are structurally sound, weather proof and draught proof. For example, the glazing detail in an oak frame building may have up to 11 separate
elements, including different sealants, membranes, gaskets and foam adhesives, as well as specially kiln dried oak beading. It is this attention to every detail that makes all the difference. Some of these materials are mainly used in other hi-tech industries outside construction. With today’s modern technologies, the most traditional of building methods – oak framing – can easily provide a light filled and very comfortable, contemporary space.
Emyr Davies is design director at Arboreta and Welsh Oak Frame
Enq. 168
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www.esg.glass 01376 520061 Enq. 169
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