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 Heartwood Homes are Douglas fir and oak. Other wood species that we occasionally use: Port Orford cedar and Western Red cedar. Frames can also be cut from reclaimed or kiln-dried timber.

Will my timber frame change as it ages?
Our joinery detail sets us apart from other timber framers. We design our frames to age gracefully by housing our joinery. This furniture-quality detail prevents gaps in the joints as the frame dries over time.

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 dries too quickly. To reduce checking, Heartwood 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 Heartwood 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. We call that “Trimber” Framing.

Enclosure Systems

What are the advantages of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs?)
SIPs are green. They use less milled wood than conventional dimensional lumber wall and roof systems. Moreover, SIPs 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.

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 Heartwood plans.

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 that are enclosed with SIPs. Most SIP manufactures provide conduit or conduit and electrical boxes pre-installed. You dictate the location of boxes and switches during the design of the home.

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 Heartwood offer timber frame design and engineering?
Yes, Heartwood offers a complete architectural design and engineering service.

Will Heartwood work with my plans and my designer?
Yes. We encourage you and your designer to consult with Heartwood early in the design process. A Heartwood 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 Heartwood 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 Heartwood offer standard plans?
Heartwood does not have a catalog of stock plans. Occasionally one of these plans is a perfect fit. Most often folks use stock plans as idea plans and will modify an existing plan to suit their particular needs. If you have a floor plan in mind, we have architects available to discuss your individual home-building needs and desires.

Does Heartwood have a model home that I can visit?
We have built from Maryland to Alaska, and many of our homeowners graciously open their doors to Heartwood visitors, so perhaps we can arrange something for you. You will also find our work in public locations such as the Lodge at Suncadia in Cle Elm, Washington; and the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. Additionally, we regularly host private home tours and seminars throughout the country. Let us know if you are interested, and we will keep you posted as these events are scheduled.

More Questions? Contact Us.