An old method of construction that is still used today is timber frame construction. The strength and raw beauty of this wood are the reasons why it is still used these days. If you are planning a construction project, and instead of using steel or metal, you want to go for a traditional wooden house. It is better for you to understand this design first.
If you are a homeowner, you are encouraged to get help from a construction cost estimation service when you are planning your project. They will help you calculate the total cost expected to complete the project. As their service is not limited to a specific area of expertise, they offer an estimation for all types within their company. You can also get help in calculating the cost of timber and any other sub-project. This article will include a discussion on timber frame construction.
Let’s start by understanding what it is:
Timber Frame Construction Explained
The name suggests that we are going to talk about framing the structure of a building. And “timber” suggests that the frame is made of timber. This framework supports the structure of the entire building, and the space between them is filled with insulation. So if someone is starting their project, they can get help from any trusted framing estimation service.
They will help you in estimating the cost of materials and labor used to set up the entire framework of your building. Once you know the cost, you get more confident about your project, as you know there won’t be any cost-related surprises during the construction.
If you are also confused about how we are calling this wood timber and not lumber. Let’s take a look at this. We know that lumber is also timber, but it is just treated in different ways and cut to certain sizes for easy application.
When the timber is used in framing, it also goes through this process, but it is still large and solid. However, lumber is cut to specific small sizes.
Benefits of Timber Frame Construction
Timber not only has visual appeal but is also used for its technical advantages. That is why it has been a preferred choice in construction for many.
Environmentally Friendly
Wood does not do any damage to the environment. It is way better than steel in terms of being friendly to the environment.
Energy-efficient
The layers of insulation that are installed between the spaces in the frames make it energy efficient.
Speed of Construction
The process of assembling the wooden frames on-site is quick. This makes the overall construction process faster.
Lasting
If timber of good quality and properly treated is used in construction, it will last for centuries. It does not even require too much maintenance.
Components of Timber Frame Structures
There are different names given to different components of the structures. They will help you understand the structure quickly next time you see the framework of a building.
- The vertical supports in the structure are posts.
- The horizontal ones are called beams.
- Brace looks like a right angle. It is for Angular support.
- The point where two frames intersect is bent.
- Triangles that form on the roof are called trusses.
- Diagonal supports that help the structure not shift are called braces.
Challenges in Timber Frame Construction
When timber has so many advantages, how is it possible to not have any cons attached to it? Let’s look at a few challenges that come along with its advantages.
Moisture Control
Timber is processed to become stronger against moisture. So, does that make it waterproof? No, it does not because nothing is going to make it waterproof. That is why it is a challenge to use wood in areas where there is a problem with such kind of atmosphere.
Skilled Labour
If you want the project to be exceptional in terms of its looks and quality of work, you need skilled workers, who have become scarce in the market.
Initial Cost
Your initial cost will be high because good-quality timber is costly, obviously. But it lasts for decades, so it pays off for its initial cost.
Conclusion
The use of timber in construction is not a new concept, but it has been an essential construction material forever. The only thing that has changed is the way in which that timber is processed. It is our wish and goal to make it as long-lasting and resistant to issues in any way possible. While construction is in the planning phase, you should always contact an estimating service to plan better. The versatility of this construction material is what made it famous in older days, and it is still used in modern construction.
