Timberlyne | Custom Post & Beam Barns

The post and beam barns framework utilizes upright and horizontal beams in PostPost and beams construction. The vertical members are called “posts,” and the horizontal members are called “beams.” As a result, post and beam construction is used. The terms “post & beam construction” and “timber frame construction” are frequently used interchangeably. While large timbers are utilized to form the framework of a home, barn, or other structure, the two construction methods provide similar characteristics. The way the massive timbers are assembled differs between the two ways.

Large vertical wood beams are set about 8 feet apart, and a series of horizontal beams are laid across them to support either a second story or a roof in PostPost and beam construction. Metal will not be found in the joinery of an actual timber frame house. Hand-cut tight-fitting mortise and tenon joinery and big wooden pegs are used to secure neighboring timbers in homes built using this ancient approach.

In contrast to light wood framing, which became popular in the United States in the mid-nineteenth century, PostPost and beam houses have a smaller number of more significant, heavier structural components.

Benefits of post and beam barns

  • Structure

Post and beam design allows for vast expanses of glass because the structure’s weight is supported by posts positioned relatively far apart. As a result, big windows are common in post and beam homes. Furthermore, high vaulted ceilings are standard in post and beam homes, resulting in a vast, open living space.

  • Resistance to fire

Post and beam structures are more fire-resistant than light-frame structures because the timber used in their construction must be denser and robust (PostPost and beam wood are normally Type IV grade). Softwood is used to construct light frame structures because it is less dense and porous, making it more sensitive to fire.

What is the cost of post and beam barns?

As opposed to light-frame construction, building a post and beam home requires enormous pieces of high-quality timber cut from large trees. Moreover, these heavy pieces of wood must be moved into place using a crane, whereas light frame construction can be assembled from a large number of delicate parts. In addition, because post and beam construction relies on fewer structural elements, their placement must be more precise. This expertise is often difficult to come by and, therefore, is expensive.

Final thoughts

Beams on the outside of the house are frequently exposed and unprotected—the beams, which are critical structural elements, decay due to this exposure over time. Furthermore, the enormous amounts of exposed wood on the home’s exterior make it more vulnerable to pest infestation, particularly termites and carpenter ants. Large vertical wood beams are set about 8 feet apart, and a series of horizontal beams are laid across them to support either a second story or a roof in PostPost and beam construction.

In contrast to light wood framing, which became popular in the United States in the mid-nineteenth century, Post and beam houses have a smaller number of more significant, heavier structural components. Softwood is used to construct light frame structures because it is less dense and porous, making it more sensitive to fire.