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Frequently Asked Questions |
Timber Frame Structure |
How does timber frame construction differ from Post & Beam construction?
Timber framing refers to a specific type of post & beam construction
in which solid wood timbers are connected with traditional mortise and tenon
joinery and secured with hardwood pegs. |
What kind of wood do you use?
The most common species used in Timbercraft Homes is Douglas fir.
Other wood species that we occasionally use include Port Orford cedar,
Sitka spruce and Yellow cedar. Frames can also be cut from reclaimed
or kiln dried timber. |
Will my timber frame change as it ages?
As a natural building material, timbers characteristically have
slight variations in grain and color. Occasionally a slight grain
separation, known as a “check”, will appear on the surface of a timber.
Checking does not compromise the strength of a timber; it’s a naturally
occurring feature that can occur when timbers contain heartwood (wood
cut from the center of the tree). Checking can also occur if timber
is allowed to dry too quickly. To reduce checking Timbercraft specifies
that all fir timbers are 90% free of heart with the end of each timber
treated with a wax-based sealant to slow the release of moisture. |
Does Timbercraft supply timber components for conventionally framed homes?
Yes, we’ve provided frames for “great” rooms, roof systems and trusses
as well as a variety of timber elements and assemblies for use in
conventionally framed buildings. |
Enclosure Systems |
What are the advantages of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs?)
SIP’s provide a fast and efficient system for enclosing your timber frame.
Foam-core panels wrap the entire frame with a continuous blanket of insulation
resulting in an extremely energy-efficient wall and roof system. Roof panel
joints are typically concealed behind rafters or purlins eliminating the need
for taping most of the drywall seams as part of the interior finishing process. |
Can timber frames be built with conventionally framed 2’x 6’ walls?
Yes, some owner-builders have opted to enclose the timber frame with
conventional framing lumber in-filled with various insulation products.
While this system is more labor intensive and time consuming it may offer
a cost savings for the owner-builder. |
Building and Mechanical Systems |
Can typical building and mechanical systems be combined with timber frame construction?
Yes, conventional construction methods and mechanical systems are
easily integrated with timber frame construction. During the design
process we pay special attention to these issues. |
What kind of a foundation does a timber frame house require?
Timber framed structures can be built on virtually any foundation
configuration including full basement, grade beam, slab, and pier systems
that may utilize poured concrete, concrete block or other acceptable
foundation construction materials. Foundations are structurally
engineered for each building site and specific construction details
appear on all Timbercraft plans. A complete discussion of foundations
and steel tie-down straps can be found in the Construction Manual that
accompanies the building package for your home. |
Does plumbing present any difficulties?
No. Plumbing is run through the interior walls except where it
can be concealed inside a cabinet. The ducts and “chases” needed to
accommodate mechanical systems, including plumbing, are located during
the design development phase of your project and specified in the
construction documents. |
How do you wire a timber frame house with structural insulated panels?
There are a number of options for running electrical wiring in houses
enclosed with SIP’s. A complete discussion of wiring options, along with
installation diagrams, is included in the Construction Manual that accompanies
your building package. |
Can ordinary building materials be used to construct a timber frame home?
Yes. No special materials are required. Any siding or roofing material
can be used to construct and finish a timber framed home. Heat, ventilation
and other mechanical systems are designed to be housed in ducts located
inside interior walls and between floors. |
Timber Frame Home Design |
Does Timbercraft offer timber frame design and engineering?
Yes, Timbercraft offers a complete architectural design and engineering service. |
Will Timbercraft work with my plans and my designer?
Yes. We encourage you and your designer to consult with Timbercraft
early in the design process. A Timbercraft designer can contribute information
that may save you and your designer valuable time. |
Timber Frame Costs |
How do the costs of timber frame homes compare to conventionally framed homes?
A custom home designed by Timbercraft and completed by a qualified general
contractor could cost as much as 20% more than a comparable conventionally framed home. |
Planning Your Timber Frame Home |
Does Timbercraft offer standard plans?
Timbercraft does not have a catalog of standard models. We’ve
found that it’s much more productive to discuss with folks their own
individual home building needs and desires. When you visit us in
Port Townsend, you’re welcome to review our portfolio featuring many
of the custom homes we’ve completed over the years. There’s a good
chance you’ll discover a house plan with characteristics similar to
what you’ve envisioned for your own home. We’d be happy to adapt any
plan to your building site as well as your unique requirements. |
Does Timbercraft have a model home that I can visit?
Timbercraft’s office and design studio are housed in a timber frame barn.
The building is a fine example of a traditional timber frame structure.
Visitors to Timbercraft are invited to take a photographic tour of timber
frame homes and public buildings and review plans for a variety of different
custom designed timber frame homes. Many of our home owners graciously
open their doors to Timbercraft visitors, so perhaps we can arrange something for you. |
Can Timbercraft recommend a general contractor in my area?
Timbercraft has builder associates in many locations. We’re happy to
refer you to a qualified builder in your area or help you interview qualified candidates. |
More Questions?
Contact Us
85 Martin Road
Port Townsend, WA 98368
360-385-3051
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