Timber Frames

The last several years we have seen an increase in demand for timber frame homes in this area. We have met these requests by setting up a specialized shop where we can hand cut all the frames, then transport the timbers to the site to where they are erected.

Timber Framing is a 2000 year old tradition of construction. The essence of the frame is large timbers joined by specially cut wood joinery and wooden pegs to hold all the structure together, traditionally no metal fasteners were used.

The simple tools used to cut the timbers require a skilled craftsman to produce the precise joinery to tie all the members together. The main tool required to make the joints is a large chisel, however today power tools are used to speed up the process. Powered mortise machines and electric saws are utilized, but to achieve the precision joinery the craftsman must finish with the traditional hand tools.

The basic structure of a timber frame is set up in bays (connected posts that run the width of the building) with (summer) beams connecting the bays. The sight of the post and beam structure along with the joinery conveys a sense of strength and permanence.

The shear size and beauty of the timbers of a post and beam structure has an aesthetic appeal that cannot be found in conventional stick built homes.

Custom Built Homes