What is an apples to apples comparison between contractors or timber frame manufacturers?
Having an architect provide a bid analysis is paramount. Variables in the home design bids can be staggering, for example: Timber frame manufacturers offer a variety of options: timber frame only, complete turn-key services or services falling somewhere in between. Timber frame companies also offer a variety of wood species, grades, finishes and manufacturing processes (handcrafted timber frames or machine cut timber frames) as well as including structural insulated panels in their packages. General contractors review architects’ construction documents and specifications differently based on experience and preferred building methods. Often, builders have differing buying and pricing options with particular companies or material brands. Construction completion timelines and familiarity with timber frame home design will vary and impact cost based on project size and availability of labor crews. With the previously mentioned variables (only a fraction of the differences in a construction
