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  Give us a call. |
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The appeal of timberframe comes from the combination of beautiful wood visible in the exposed frame, the large open expanses created, and the delightful interplay of natural textures, colors, and light. There is a range of materials available for construction, but the backbone of the industry is Douglas Fir and Western Larch (Tamarack). Good availability, great strength, and known, consistent engineering values make these two species the choice of most builders.
Douglas Fir/Larch has been used in post and beam construction for the bulk of the last two centuries. Consequently, warehouses, piers, trestles, and other large buildings are now being dismantled to begin a second life as the frames of resort lodges, commercial properties, and individuals' homes. In fact, reclaimed/recycled beams and timbers are being used nationwide and throughout various countries in preference to fresh-sawn timber. Large dimensions, high stability, and low moisture content are key factors for this, as well as the rustic surface appearance and patina of the wood. Also, the fact that the structure can be built without the requirement to cut live, green timber is a great appeal to many, and a wise stewardship of the resources available. The second key player in timberframe construction is what is known as "standing dead" wood. In certain arid areas of the Northwest, trees will be killed by either forest fire or other natural causes, yet remain fixed in the ground by the network of roots. This allows the wood to quickly lose water through the leaves and branches, eventually reducing its moisture content to a condition suitable for building. |
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Beautiful Timberframe
The renaissance of the Arts and Crafts movement in the United States has revived the art of timberframe house building. Also known as post-and-beam construction, the current wave utilizes old-world joints and construction methods with modern-day engineering and building codes. What began with a few individuals using this method and style in the latter 20th century, has quickly swept across the US and Canada as well as to Europe and Asia. The demand has been so acute that it has been dubbed "the hottest item in high-end housing." |
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Copyright 2003 Northwest Custom Timbers - All Rights Reserved.