The difference between a timber frame and a post and beam structure is the way the individual parts are connected: Timber frames utilize wood joinery and rarely use steel parts; whereas post and beam structures are connected with metal fasteners and connectors. Benefits of post and beam type construction: Reduced skilled labor costs. Disadvantages of […]
Post & Beam Blog
Blog posts and general information about quality custom timber framing, new trends, frequently asked questions, what woods to use, and best practices.
Timber Frame Trusses
truss, n. A collection of timbers or members forming one of the principal supports, as of a roof or bridge, and framed together so as to give mutual support and prevent distortion, as by the forces of gravity and wind loads. Trusses, whether structural or decorative, are usually named in one of five ways: 1. […]
What is the best wood for Timber Framing?
We’re often asked, “What is the best wood for timber framing?” Although it’s estimated that 60% of timber frames in North America are built from Douglas Fir, there are other timber frame wood species which may work as well, or better, for your building project. So, here in one place, is exactly how to select […]
Why is that tree on the roof? (and other quirky timber framing traditions)
Timber Framing has been around, in some form or another, for over 2,000 years. So it stands to reason, some interesting timber framing traditions and customs have sprung up in connection with the design and construction of timber frame structures. We thought, in this season of tradition and home, we’d share some of the more […]
Why do timbers split and crack?
Eric Morley on why timbers split and crack, how long it takes timber to dry, where to get dry timbers, and why gunshots in the night are nothing to be afraid of . . . The short answer Splits and cracks (known as ‘checks’ in the industry) occur when wood shrinks as it dries. Wood […]
Lightning protection for barns
What does lightning protection for barns have to do with timber framing? After the largest horse barn in the U.S. (video at right) was completed, we learned that the barn and horses are protected from lightning by products from East Coast Lightning Equipment. They subsequently pointed out that several of the photographs on our website […]
How to fit Timber Framing into the Budget
After receiving the latest Carolina Timberworks newsletter, a potential client emailed a great question: “Can you show a recent home for a customer on a 300k budget, else this stuff is non-realistic to normal non-millionaire folks“. My Emailed Reply With respect to non-millionaire projects, we do a lot of them. One way to fit timber framing into […]
More benefits of Timber Framing
Built Poetry While watching Fine Homebuilding’s video of architect Caleb Johnson of Biddeford, Maine discuss the winner of the 2015 Best New Home award, we were struck by his profound insights into the benefits of timber framing and why we are drawn to, and love timber framing: “Built poetry.” “The materials go together in a fashion that you can […]