WHAT IS TIMBER FRAMING?
Traditionally in 19th Century Europe and Asia, homes and barns were built out of large wood post and beam members, typically referred to as "heavy timber". On average, these posts are 8"x8", and the beams can range in size from 8"x8" to 8"x16".
These timbers were connected using mortise and tenon joinery, secured with hardwood pegs. Supporting cross members called "braces" can be seen in the top corners of these connections to provide lateral support.
These structures were built to last centuries, and that intention has carried on into the present day. Some timber framers still use traditional methods of hand-hewing their joinery, keeping the craftsmanship and mastery of timber framing alive.
Timber frame homes are designed to showcase the strength and beauty of nature's most versatile and sustainable building material. There is a wide variety of wood and stain colors to choose from, making it easy to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece for your family to enjoy for years to come.
See our latest fully structural timber frame project
MODERN MASS TIMBER
As old growth trees become more rare and protected, designers and builders have turned to a more sustainable solution for achieving the post and beam aesthetic.
Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) is becoming the go-to choice for modern homes and buildings due to the superior strength, spanning capabilities, and overall streamline design. Made from laminations of smaller dimensional lumber pieces, these beams are created to span up to 4x the length of a solid timber beam.
Choice Timber Frame companies in Alberta and BC are using lumber from FSC Certified forests to manufacture their products, planting more trees than they are harvesting, and restoring the vitality of our forests.