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Timber Framing
WHAT IS TIMBER FRAMING?
A post and beam framework supports the roof by transferring roof loads to
principal posts and onto the foundation of the building eliminating the need
for load bearing interior partition walls. The result is a strong, self-supporting
timber structure in which heavy timbers frame open living spaces, cathedral
ceilings and well-lit rooms. |
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THE ROOTS OF TIMBER FRAMING
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The Ise Shrine, Japan, built in 690 AD. |
Mortise and tenon joinery can be traced back to furniture hand-crafted in Egypt 2000 years ago. How joinery came to be used in building construction is not known, but there is ample proof that builders in all of the temperate regions of the world relied on some form of timber frame construction. In China and Japan, timber framing was the most common method of wood construction until the 20th century. The 1,300 year old Ise temple buildings in Japan, which have been rebuilt nearly every 20 years, are thought to be the oldest existing timber frame structures in the world. | |
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In Northern Europe, timber framing probably evolved as a way to construct dwellings using the most available building material, wood. |
 
Early Frames. |
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The oak frame of this twelve-bay barn outside of London was raised in 1426-27 and is 191 feet long. |
By the Middle Ages timber frame churches, theaters,
elaborate private homes and impressive barns
populated the cities and towns of Northern Europe.
15th century brick in-fill building in Denmark currently housing a restaurant and pub. |
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This Saltbox house illustrates the clap-board siding and distinctive roof, which is shorter on the south-facing side. |
Although the forests of Europe had largely disappeared
by the 15th century, the New World provided an
abundant source of wood for immigrant builders.
Timber framing remained the most common method of wood construction in North America until the 19th century when it was replaced by balloon framing; a system which uses dimensional lumber and metal nails, both innovations of the industrial revolution. With the exception of its use in Amish and Mennonite communities, the craft of timber framing was not practiced in America for more than one hundred years. |
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Colonial Frames. |
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The Austin Lord house, Ipswich, Mass., Built before 1653, with later modifications |
In the mid-70's a few innovative home builders, dissatisfied with building methods prevalent at the time, were inspired by the still functional, colonial timber frame homes built 300 years ago. Timbercraft owners, Charles and Judith Landau, were among the original group of timber frame "revivalists." Timbercraft homes are the result of 20 years of careful research and practical experience with a modern building system that combines beautiful wood and Old World craftsmanship with modern tools and technology. | |
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Computer technology used in timber frame design. Click on image to view a short movie. |
In the 1990's computer controlled timber cutting machines were developed in Germany and introduced to the American market. The availability of a CNC joinery machine introduced a new era in timber framing. The ability of traditional craftsmen to lay out and cut precise joinery with hand tools, and later, with power tools, was now enhanced by computer technology. In 1997, Timbercraft was the first timber framing company on the west coast to purchase and install CNC joinery equipment. Since that time, the company has been a leader in software development and product design using computer controlled technology to create solid timber structures that will function beautifully for hundreds of years to come. | |
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Timber framing is a simple but elegant building system consisting of large
wood posts and beams fit together with interlocking joinery
and secured with wooden pegs.