A few weeks ago we began our search for stable oak that we could use to put in a traditional exposed oak beam and joist floor. We decided that this style would be used in both of the traditional barns, taking our queue from the style in the main farm house. Sadly that structure is not salvageable due to the huge deflections in the beams, but we felt it was appropriate that we recreate this and both restore and enhance the character of the traditional buildings.
After consulting with our structural engineer, measuring once, twice, thrice, we ended up with an oak cut list for THA and THB oak. With deflection being an issue and stability being of the highest importance we could not risk using green structural oak… and so our search began for the most stable and costs effective oak supply in the UK. I wouldn’t be so arrogant as to believe we actually achieved that, but we are very happy with the result.
After much deliberation and clarifications we chose to go with the father/son team of Neil and Russell Traditional Oak and Timber Company. Not only were the prices competitive but the oak is dried for 5-8 years and delivered within 10-14 days. Having dealt with Russell primarily we finalised things with his father Neil whilst Russell went off on honeymoon. Neil closed the deal with honesty and a friendly supportive service, and whilst the oak is yet to be delivered we all have a strong feeling that this was the right decision and their Normandy oak will become one of the important features of the property.
