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About Timber Framing The art of timber framing is an ancient method of building construction brought to this country by early English, Dutch, and German settlers who were products of European guild-trained craftsmen. A timber frame is a rigid structural framework of heavy timber connected by means of mortise and tenon joinery locked together with wooden pegs to form the basic shape of a structure. Timber framing is a practical method of building which has experienced a revival in the last twenty years. Often referred to as “post and beam” construction, its traditional form bears little resemblance to the many hybrid kits found on the market today. Many early residential timber frames were covered over with interior finishes of wooden casework and plaster. Today, most people who choose a new timber frame home leave the frame work exposed as a decorative feature as well as structural statement. House and barn frames can be created with local timber or recycled antique timber to suit the particular needs of the owner. Old barn frames can be dismantled and moved to a new site as homes or barns for those who appreciate a living history. Very few of today’s architects or builders understand traditional timber framing, as the knowledge through application has been lost for over a century. Careful research is important if a repair or addition to an old timber frame structure is contemplated. Timber framed homes and barns are leading examples of time proven construction methods. Timber framing suits the modern call for building practices that are sustainable and efficient and is a viable alternative to the artificial environments most home manufacturers offer today.
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