Timber Construction Companies Key Terms

Educate yourself with common timber construction company key terms
By Darcy Chadwick Once a home has been constructed out of logs or timbers, the finished product can produce an aesthetically pleasing sight. If you're in the timber construction business, then you're likely to have steep competition. In order to separate yourself from the many other companies, you need to familiarize yourself with some common terms. Doing so enables you to better serve potential clients and work more efficiently with vendors or contractors.

Joints

Thousands of joints can be found in timber construction, especially if the project is built with post and beam construction. The sole purpose of joints is to secure the frame and all its units into a cohesive system.
Try:  Visit Converse Timber Frames to see an example of a timber joint.

Topographic maps

Topographic maps are routinely used by timber construction companies when designing a structure. These maps show the specific contours of the Earth, such as how the ground slopes. Seeing the layout in 3-D can help eliminate potential building problems.
Try:  Learn more about topographic maps from the U.S. Geological Survey.

Bent system

There are two main types of timber-frame construction styles, and one of them is the bent system. This is the most common style that most people associate with timber-frame construction. Two posts are connected to two rafters, and then they are secured with a collar tie and other connecting timbers.
Try:  See a picture of a bent system structure being assembled at Goshen Timber Frames.

Common rafter

Another popular timber construction style is the common rafter system. Instead of creating large "bent" pieces of wood, the supporting structure for the roof is first created with horizontal beams fashioned atop vertical ones. Once complete, the common rafters are built and connected with a collar tie.
Try:  Learn more about how to construct common rafters at DoItYourself.com.

Post and beam construction

Post and beam construction refers to timber framing. Solid timbers are secured together with joints, which are then fastened by wooden pegs. The eye-catching appearance is a popular highlight of post and beam construction.
Try:  Visit Mill Creek Post & Beam Company to see examples of post and beam construction.

Braces

Braces can add security to a timber frame construction, ensuring that the structure remains stable. One key benefit is that when winds pick up, the braces can keep the building from leaning.
Try:  Learn more about braces for timber frame homes at Woodhouse.