non-structural decorative timbers

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Permalink Reply by Chris Wood on January 14, 2010 at 5:14pm

Hello Kathryn,

The "decorative" industry has really grown these past few years and has helped us all with "plus business". Many times it is done to try and save money with the end result being less than desireable (less cost in precutting but more cost with on-site labor and compromised finished details). Sometimes it is done during construction by design to conceal HVAC, plumbing, reduce volume, etc. I have rarely seen Decorative Oak because of weight and shrinkage/twisting issues. Best to keep decorative timber kiln dried for stability and handling. Like White Pine, Doug Fir, Cypress, etc. If possible, pre-stain all six sides of timber before installation so if timber shrinks or gaps it won't be as noticeable. Try to lag screw or throughbolt from above and plug fasteners with wooden dowel when possible. Purists can tell what is real vs. decorative and prefer to be involved during initial construction. But if already built, we don't mind helping with a faux solution.

Chris @ Hearthstone

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Permalink Reply by Kathryn Pepper on February 8, 2010 at 6:21pm

Thanks Chris for your info - I would love to build a timber home but my husband doesn't want the time/expense /hassle of building (he's not the handyman type) so my next best is to purchase a home and at least make it "look" like a timber frame using decoartive measures. Know anyone who's ever done this and had it look reasonable? I know it won't be the same but just want at least a hint of timber in whatever home we retire in.

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Permalink Reply by Chris Wood on February 9, 2010 at 12:23pm

Yes, we've seen minor to major remodeling done. Tough to recommend beam sizes and fastening details until the home has been inspected and size/location of ceiling beams/rafters is known. Where are you looking for an existing home? If it comes with blueprints, get a copy at closing. For any remodel, it is best to avoid living in it during the stress and hassle. But if you must, make sure you can block off and access the space from outside.

Another option we see these days is a detached addition (game room, office, etc.) that is new construction (timber frame) and is linked to existing with connector. This allows you to live in home without too much disturbance until you're ready to open up the wall.

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Permalink Reply by Kathryn Pepper on February 9, 2010 at 2:16pm

thanks....all good ideas. At present we are still in the "looking" stage so I am looking with changes in mind. I like the idea of a timber frame addition.
One more question perhaps you could help with - been reading on-line about timber frame and post and beam - how are these two different?, similar? I always thought they were the same, just diff names.

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Permalink Reply by Chris Wood on February 9, 2010 at 5:16pm

Post & Beam is a generic term that can apply to wood, concrete, steel, etc. It uses vertical posts and point loads to support horizontal beams. Timber frame is art of an all wood post & beam using large enough timbers that handle mortise & tenon joinery with wooden pegs to secure the joinery. Both versions can be extremely strong and long-lasting. One takes a little more effort and has an authentic, historical appeal.

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Permalink Reply by Deb Watkins on February 22, 2010 at 8:24am

We specialize timber frame elements and would be happy to find out more about what you're looking to achieve. Timber frame elements such as trusses and mantles, etc are best to be put in the home during the construction phase. In some cases variations can be worked into an existing home.
Deb
Generations Timber Frames

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Permalink Reply by Kathryn Pepper on February 22, 2010 at 1:52pm

yah, looks like we would have to go decorative to be added to an existing home. My husband is okay with retiring to the country but sure doesn't want the hassle of building. He's a maintenance free type of guy. I do all the woodworking and decorating so he's not into anything extra. But since I love the look of log homes or timber frame homes, I want my final home to reflect that somewhat. Where are you located Deb? Have you ever done decorative additions to an existing home?

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Permalink Reply by Deb Watkins on February 22, 2010 at 2:01pm

Hi Kathryn, We're located in MI but our working area is MI, IN, OH, PA & NY - where are you located? If you go to our website you can see some of the work we've done. www.generationstf.com
We actually had to winch trusses up into an existing ceiling once but won't go to that extent again - not the way to do it. What can be done will be determined by your home and how accessible it is to working elements into the rooms.

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