Timber framing construction refers to an old time method of home construction where that contractor uses mortise and tenon joints, lap joints, dowels and wooden pegs in the creation of timber frames to create a structure for a building. The method for constructing homes can easily be traced back to the Neolithic period of history. Timber framing is also referred to as half-timbering and the process almost always involves the use some primitive construction materials such as what is more commonly used in stick framing. This is a sturdy and rugged charm construction that has gone on to popularize timber frame construction among many modern home builders as well as home buyers.
There are is usually a highly advanced level of carpentry skills that are employed in the construction of a timber frame house that goes beyond your ordinary carpentry. The joints that are used in building post and beam homes have to stick together smoothly and, as a result, a great amount precision is required in the process of making measurements and cutting; this is in addition to all knowledge with regards to different characteristics of wood even as it seasons so that it can be used effectively for timber framing. As a trade-off for the extra time spent acquiring the necessary skills, the mortise and tenon joints of the timber frame homes will continue to hold the structure’s weight long after the nails of a stick frame building have rusted away and created the need for major repairs.
Apart from using natural materials in the timber frame construction process, the type of timber frame homes Seattle method used will sometimes also incorporate some other natural materials such as plaster, adobe or wattle. There are also situations where timber framing also gets to incorporate some form of brickwork as part of the structure. These other materials are always used to fill up any space that is left between the timbers but they are never used as load-bearing components of the post and beam homes design.
There are people who employ timber framing in order to add to the beauty and rustic charm of any other interior construction; it may also be used in the traditional manner where it is employed to construct an entire building using different types of timber framing techniques. In most cases, the type of timber that will be used in the erection of timber homes will almost always remain exposed to view; this is what creates the unique look that makes timber framing distinctive.
While most exterior timber framing can be left exposed to view, there are particular climates where more desirable processes such as weatherboarding are employed in order to cover the exterior frame of the building so as to protect it from damage caused by moisture and temperature variations.