A carpentry firm builds load-bearing timber structures: roof frames, floor structures, extensions, additional storeys and balconies. In renovations, it is often needed when a roof is opened up, an attic is converted or a storey is added. Timber construction allows a high degree of prefabrication, which significantly shortens the time on site.
It builds and renovates roof structures, builds floors and walls in timber construction, carries out extensions and additional storeys, and constructs balconies, canopies and carports. In roof renovations it replaces damaged rafters, reinforces the structure for additional loads and installs the insulation layer before the roofer installs the roof covering.
Before you decide on a new roof covering, the roof structure should be inspected. The focus is on moisture damage at support points, fungal decay, insect infestation and earlier interventions in which rafters were cut through for a window and never properly supported. This inspection is inexpensive and determines whether a repair is sufficient or the structure has to be renewed.
Timber elements are manufactured in the workshop and assembled on site. This considerably shortens the time during which the building is open and exposed to the weather. The trade-off is that planning has to be finalised earlier: what is prefabricated can no longer be changed spontaneously on site. Therefore clarify openings, service runs and connections before production.
Extensions, additional storeys and converting a roof space into living accommodation require permission and affect the utilisation ratio, building height and boundary setbacks. These requirements are regulated at cantonal and municipal level, so clarify them before planning. The load-bearing structure also requires supporting calculations from a structural engineer.
On the roof, the carpentry firm works closely with the roofer and sheet metal worker, and all three need the scaffolding. For additional storeys, a structural engineer and builder are also involved for the supports. For the interior fit-out, the plasterer and joiner follow. Define the interfaces between the carpentry firm and the roofer in writing, especially who provides the roofing underlay membrane.
Good timber protection is primarily achieved through design and only secondarily through chemicals. The crucial factors are sufficient roof overhangs, splash-water protection at the plinth, ventilated build-ups and details that allow water to run off instead of standing. Where these points are right, a timber structure will last for decades without treatment. So do not ask the carpentry firm only about the coating, but about the details: How is the plinth connection designed, how is the structure ventilated, where are the critical points? Those are the answers by which you can recognise a good carpentry firm.