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Custom Timber Frame Design And Construction.
Differences, Sustainability & Design
Timber Frame or Post and Beam
Post and Beam vs. Traditional Timber Frame Construction
As a Harmony Timberworks sales professional and heavy timber construction expert, here’s how I would explain the difference between Post and Beam construction and Traditional Timber Frame construction to a client or prospect…
Post and Beam Construction
Post and Beam construction uses large timber posts and horizontal beams to create the building’s structural framework. These timbers are typically connected using metal fasteners, bolts, and steel plates rather than traditional wooden joinery.
Key Features:
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- Exposed Wood Elements – Showcases the beauty of natural wood.
- Metal Connections – Often uses brackets, bolts, and screws for strength and ease of assembly.
- Faster Construction – Easier to assemble than traditional timber framing due to modern fasteners.
- Open Floor Plans – Provides flexibility in design with widely spaced beams.
Traditional Timber Frame Construction
Traditional Timber Framing is a centuries-old method that relies on handcrafted mortise-and-tenon joinery, secured with wooden pegs, instead of metal fasteners. This technique creates a strong, self-supporting structure.
Key Features:
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- Precision Joinery – Uses hand-cut mortise-and-tenon joints for a seamless, interlocking fit.
- No Visible Metal Fasteners – Relies on wooden pegs instead of bolts.
- Historical Aesthetic – Ideal for customers who appreciate craftsmanship and a classic, rustic appeal.
- Superior Longevity – Traditional timber frames have been known to last centuries.
Key Differences at a Glance
Feature
Post & Beam
Traditional Timber Frame
Joinery Method
Metal fasteners & bolts
Mortise-and-tenon with wooden pegs
Construction Speed
Faster
More labor-intensive
Appearance
Modern with exposed hardware
Classic, historic, handcrafted look
Longevity
Durable, but hardware may need maintenance
Extremely long-lasting
Cost
Lower upfront costs
Higher due to craftsmanship
Which One is Right for Your Project?
- Post and Beam is great for modern homes, barns, or commercial structures where speed and cost are key factors.
- Traditional Timber Framing is ideal for clients who want a historically inspired, hand-crafted structure with a timeless aesthetic.
At Harmony Timberworks, we specialize in both Post & Beam and Traditional Timber Framing and can help design a structure that fits your vision while ensuring superior craftsmanship.
Selected Post & Beam Projects
Mason’s Bend Pavilion
Mason’s Bend
Masons Bend is a master-planned community located in Fort Mill, South Carolina, which is a suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Spice Restaurant – Post & Beam Commercial Project
Spice Asian Restaurant
Located in the heart of Kingsley Town Center in Fort Mill, SC
McLemore Clubhouse Ceiling Detail
McLemore Clubhouse
Nestled in the mountains of northwest Georgia, McLemore’s Clubhouse offers a chef-driven dining experience.
Selected Timber Frame Projects
Calloway Gap Home – Timber Frame Ceiling Detail
Calloway Gap Home
Custom timber frame home built in North Carolina.
Stallings Pavilion Timber Frame Interior
Stallings Pavilion
The Stallings Pavilion stands in a peaceful setting, surrounded by nature. It’s an exemplification of balance, with carefully-thought-out proportions and a sophisticated design that merges modern aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship.