Abbey Hill Shepherd Huts
So what does go into our huts?
What you can't see is probably more important than what you can see
Chassis
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The steel chassis that we use is manufactured by RTN Welding. The chassis are proven to be strong, and have a turntable and drawbar to allow manouvering of the hut into place.
Each chassis is made to order so we can make a hut to the size that you want. RTN have been developing and manufacturing their shepherd hut chassis design for a number of years. The main rails are made from 5mm thick box section. The turntable is substantial and the strong detachable drawbar allows for easy moving of the hut.
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Wheels
Specially cast iron wheels are provided on the chassis. We think cast iron wheels look 'right' for our huts when compared to fabricated steel wheels. The wheels are 26 inches diameter and by fitting the wheels inboard, and underneath the chassis, the wheelbase is just right for fitting the hut onto a car transporter trailer if needs be.
Frame
The frames for out huts are constructed from 100mm x 50mm CLS treated timber for maximum strength, and to allow a 100mm void in the walls, roof and floor which can then be filled with 100mm of insulation. The frame is further strengthened by an external skin of 11mm OSB. The floor is 18mm hardwood ply and so can be used as a sound base for installing further wood flooring or alternative floor coverings.
Insulation
Insulation is needed to keep the inside of the hut at a stable comfortable temperature (cool in summer and warm in winter), so that the hut can be enjoyed in all seasons.
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We use 100mm of Thermafleece Cosywool insulation in the walls, floor and roof.
Sheep’s wool is a great material. It’s a natural insulator, locally grown, sustainable, and breathable, it dampens sound and is fire safe. Thermafleece is manufactured in the UK and combines British wool with recycled polyester fibres to create effective, safe and sustainable insulation.
It is breathable meaning it can bind and release moisture allowing Thermafleece to act as a humidity buffer. This helps protect structural timber elements from moisture, preventing the accumulation of harmful water and providing a stable fabric. This is particularly appropriate in the more damp and humid climate of the British Isles.
How materials react to fire is an increasingly important consideration. Sheep’s wool has a high ignition temperature and reacts to fire by charring. To improve these natural characteristics, the wool in Thermafleece is also treated with a low level of borax in order to ensure our insulation is fire safe. All Thermafleece products pass British Standard tests for smoulder resistance and flammability.
Contact Us
0746 997 4933
Structure House Gayton Road, Eastcote, Nothamptonshire, NN12 8NG