Called 'open panel' as the inside face of the timber frame panel is left open to enable the fitting of services such as electrical cables. The panels are then insulated on site, most commonly with Mineral wool batts, prior to plaster board being fitted. This type of panel is the most widely used within the industry and lends itself to a wide range of insulating options giving u-values of between 0.3w/m2k and 0.1w/m2k depending on the insulation specified.

Openings for doors and windows, timber lintels, junction studs and support studs are all incorporated at our factory. The timber frame panels are constructed from 140x38mm CLS timber, although we can produce panels in 184x38mm CLS and 235x38mm CLS if required. Studs are generally at 600mm centres.

The panel is clad externally will 9mm OSB3 structural sheathing, this is then covered with a Tyvek breather membrane or if required an insulating foil membrane. Poly-tape marks the stud positions on the external face.

Our 'closed panel' system is based on the same principles as the open panel, however wall panels are insulated at the fabrication stage in our factory.

Following the fitting of insulation the inside face of the panel is closed with an insulating foil membrane which is also incredibly tough.

Counter battens are then fitted over the foil membrane to provide a service void for electrical cables etc.

This service void also increases the insulating properties of the overall wall construction.

The closed panel system is also a very good option for houses that require very low levels of air tightness as the panel remains sealed and openings for electrical boxes etc are not required.

Closed panels are growing fast in popularity mainly due the time and labour saved on site as well as the increased air tightness mentioned above. This system can provide u-values of between 0.3 and 0.1w/m2k depending on the level of insulation fitted.