Modern Methods of Construction, or MMC, has become one of the most talked-about concepts in the construction industry. It’s written into government strategy, housing association tenders, and developer ESG reports. But in practice, the reality behind the acronym can vary widely.
At its best, MMC represents a fundamental shift in how we build: faster, cleaner, more consistent, and more sustainable. At its worst, it risks becoming a box-ticking exercise – a label applied to business-as-usual with a few offsite components tacked on.
This is where timber frame has often been underestimated. Despite being one of the original forms of MMC, its potential has sometimes been overlooked in favour of newer, less proven technologies. But not all timber frame is created equal, and not every provider delivers on the full promise of MMC.
At Deeside Timberframe, we believe the difference lies in how seriously you treat the “modern” in Modern Methods of Construction. And for us, that starts offsite.
While many providers talk the talk, we are one of the few timber frame specialists in the UK delivering full structural build systems: walls, floors and roofs – offsite, at scale, in controlled manufacturing conditions. These are not simply individual components, but fully integrated, precision-engineered systems manufactured offsite, delivered on schedule, and designed for efficient and safe installation on site.
This is the core distinction. We go beyond panel supply to provide a fully coordinated structural envelope, designed as a system to simplify construction sequencing. That translates into fewer subcontractor dependencies, lower delivery risk, and more reliable on-site outcomes.
The second difference is how we work with clients long before manufacture even begins. One of the biggest reasons MMC can fall short of its potential is because it’s bolted onto traditional procurement models. If you want the performance gains, the cost savings and the programme acceleration MMC promises, you need early engagement. That’s why our team supports clients from concept stage through to detailed design, optimising structural layouts, streamlining material use, and reducing costly rework down the line. “Deeside’s technical team got involved before we’d even finalised our planning drawings,” said the Development Manager of a recent affordable housing scheme. “Their early input helped us reduce waste, hit performance targets, and keep the programme moving. It’s exactly what you want from an MMC partner.”
And this is where the third difference comes into play: experience. MMC has attracted a wave of new market entrants in recent years, but Deeside Timberframe has been delivering offsite solutions for more than three decades. We’ve helped build everything from award-winning affordable housing developments and commercial units, like care homes and hotels, to bespoke private homes. Our systems are proven. Our manufacturing investment is ongoing. Our capacity is real.
This combination: true offsite capability, integrated delivery, early collaboration, and track record, is what sets us apart. It’s also why more developers, main contractors and housing associations are coming to us as they shift away from traditional build methods and look for smarter, faster, and more sustainable ways to deliver homes.
Modern Methods of Construction shouldn’t be a label. It should be a commitment to better quality, better processes, and better outcomes.
To speak to our team about your next project, email info@deesidetimberframe.com or call 01569 767 123.