What is the difference between timber framing and post and beam construction?

Timber framing, originating in Asia, was the most dominant building method until the late 19th century in the United States, when 2x dimensional lumber could be mass-produced and the wire nail was invented. Timber framing features mortise and tenon joinery, which is the traditional method of interlocking timbers, as well as wooden pegs, to fasten and secure timbers which create the load-bearing structural skeleton of the building, whether it be a home, addition, barn, or commercial structure (click for a photo of mortise and tenon joinery). In addition, timber braces are used to provide structural support to the timber frame. As a result, one timber runs continuously from floor to ridge, providing vertical and lateral support to the building. Timber frame bents, or wall systems, are assembled on the ground and then raised into place, as in old-fashioned barn raisings (visit our Job Sites for photos of timber frame raisings). The unique structural integrity of the timber frame system allows for flexible designs with open floor plans.

Post and beam construction is a contemporary variation of timber framing. Instead of wooden joinery and oak pegs to connect timbers, posts and beams are butted together and fastened using metal brackets, spikes, and screws. Posts and beams are assembled one at a time, with posts running from the first floor deck to the second floor system, then additional posts running vertically from the second floor to the ridge. Glulam beams are often used in post and beam construction to span long distances without support posts. For decorative purposes, many post and beam companies include bracing on posts and conceal metal screws or nails with wooden pegs.

What can Davis Frame Company and its sales representatives, Central Oregon Timber Frame Homes provide?

1. Custom designed plans that include elevations, cross sections, details, floor plans, foundation plans, framing plans for the timber frame, and plans for the non-timber frame areas of construction. We have full architectural services available that can be tailored to fit your individual needs. Architect or Engineer stamped drawings are available when required.
2. A refined, hand-crafted timber frame, in a choice of dense select Douglas Fir, white pine, oak, or other species as available, including recycled timbers.
3. Materials for a weather-tight shell house kit, including:
   • Structural Insulated Panel enclosure system (SIPs)
   • Insulated Concrete Foundation System (ICF)
   • Second floor system
   • Pre-cut dimensional material
   • Cedar siding and exterior trim
   • Cedar or heavy-duty asphalt shingle roofing
   • Superior quality windows and doors

Does Davis Frame Company, or Central Oregon Timber Frame build my home?

We can suggest General Contractors, independent frame and panel installation crews or we can provide a technical assistant who will work with your general contractor or custom home builder to assemble the frame and panels. Your general contractor or subcontractor builds the rest of your home. Central Oregon Timber Frame can assist you in finding a contractor to do the work if you do not already have one.

What are the home building costs of a Davis Frame Company Timber Frame Homes timber frame home?

1. A complete Davis Frame Company package can cost $55 to $75 (and up) per square foot and up depending on the style, wood species, degree of finish, and the complexity of the joinery. For example, a two-story colonial is less expensive per square foot than a single-story home with cathedral ceilings.
2. Labor to erect the frame and install panels is in the $10 to $14 per square foot range.
3. A finished home can cost from $150 (and up) per square foot depending to a large extent on the choices of finish materials. This figure does not include site work, water, sewer, utilities, walkout or finished basement costs. For more information on total costs contact your Davis Frame Company Sales Representative.
4. Some Central Oregon Timber Frame Homes clients act as their own general contractor and save as much as 10-15% compared to the costs of working with a general contractor. This option must be carefully considered because of the time and complexity of such an undertaking.
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   How do I get my plans done?

   Davis Frame Company and Central Oregon Timber Frame Homes offers a variety of design services using our in-house licensed architect, designers, and detailers. Many of the homes featured in our portfolio are Davis Frame Company design originals.

   Once Davis Frame Company produces the final design drawings, Central Oregon Timber Frame can complete all State-required PE Reviews for you.

   Clients have a choice of working directly with our in-house design department, with our affiliated architectural firm, UK Architects, or with an architect of their choosing. For a description of these design services, see Design Services.

   Can I adapt a timber frame to an existing floor plan?

   Timber framing is very adaptable to different architectural styles. A huge percentage of the work we do is from clients who like a certain plan, but who wish to change a few things to meet their needs. We are careful not to reproduce any copyrighted plans from other companies, and work with you to use your plan as a starting point to develop a custom timber frame home that is uniquely yours.

   How long does it take from the start of design until delivery of my timber frame package?

   This process can take as little as three months or as long as nine months depending on the complexity of design and the number of changes required to refine it. When the design is complete, it generally takes eight weeks to cut and deliver your frame package. However, if time is critical, it is sometimes possible to improve on the delivery time of the package.

   How long does it take to erect the frame and install the panels?

   It averages three weeks; however, the size and complexity of the building, site constraints, and weather conditions can affect the amount of time it will take. The remainder of the construction process is the same as any conventional home and usually takes 9-12 months.

   What is the next step?

   1. If you have plans or drawings and would like an estimate on your project, mail or fax them to us. Our estimate turnaround time is usually 10-14 days. If you need design services, call our toll-free number to set up an appointment to discuss your ideas and specifications.
   2. If you have other questions, please call Doug & Leanne at (541) 306-3232 or Cell 541-977-8285.