Traditional timber framing

Here at Vermont Timber Works we pride ourselves on our craftsmanship, especially as it relates to the traditional method of joining timbers. 

Some timbers already fabricated

There are two principal ways of joining timbers:  steel joinery (think gusset plates) and traditional joinery.  We are comfortable with both methods of joinery, but a lot of our clients find that the traditional mortise and tenon fits with their aesthetic.  There is just something really inspiring about seeing wood beams held together with pegs.

Traditionally joined boat house

When we fabricate our frames we use a few old time techniques to ensure that the joints stay tight after the frame is assembled.  Our craftsmen are adept at the ways of framing that used to be commonplace.

Give us a call at 802 886 1917 to discuss your project.  We love to talk about timber framing, and look forward to working with you on your next project.

The Timber Framing Process

Truss Sketch

We receive a lot of calls about projects, so I thought I'd run through the process of what you should expect.  Because we are a custom shop each project has its own individual requirements, depending on what the client would like to see for final finish in their timber frame, what the engineering and design requirements are, local ordinance demands, and budgetary considerations, among other factors. 

The first step is for us to understand exactly what the client wants for a frame.  Our estimator will do a sketch (similar to the one above) to be sure that we have the geometry, roof slope, and dimensions correct.

Once we have agreed on the final design, we will order the material, which arrives on site wrapped to protect it from the elements during shipping.

Glulam packages brought inside

Next we lay out the timbers based on the drawings that have been approved by the client and his or her architect and engineer.

Arches ready for layout

Layout of glulams

Once the timbers have been layed out, the fabrication begins.  We have a team of skilled craftsmen who are experts with timber frame tools.  They check each piece to ensure that it is correctly oriented in the building and cut it according to the prints. 

Timbers being checked for accuracy

Glulam slotted for knife plate

After the timbers have been fabricated they are cleaned and stained by our competent finish crew.

Cleaning timbers with wire wheel

Staining timbers

Once the timbers have been stained and dried on our racks, we put the timbers together in a package for shipment.

Truck being loaded for delivery

The truck is loaded with the timbers, or trusses pre-assembled here in our shop, and shipped directly to the job site.

Boat House

Boat House

Here at Vermont Timber Works we design, engineer, and build custom timber frame buildings.  This building was a challenge for a number of reasons:  the weight of the boat(s), the location of the piers, the fenestration of the gable wall, and the time frame.  We were able to come up with a solution for all of the problems, with the end result that the client was very happy.

Here are some pictures of the fabrication process.

Hips

Mortise for boat house

Compound joinery

Rafter Tail detail

We like to cut unique frames, and this particular frame was a lot of fun to work.  Give us a call for your unique design.

Traditional Joinery Vs. Steel Joinery

Custom plates for a pool house

We get asked a lot about steel joinery versus traditional joinery.  To be sure, the beauty of the joinery is in the eye of the beholder.  Some people prefer steel joinery because of the industrial look, and some prefer a more traditional mortise and tenon type of joinery.  Here at Vermont Timber Works we are comfortable with either kind of joinery. 

Rafter tenon

Because we are a timber frame shop we can fabricate the timbers either for steel or for mortise and tenon.

Oak Timber Frame

Oak timber frame in Canada

Here is Kellin working on a big piece of oak for a job in Quebec.  We lay out several corbels on one timber.  You can see his timber saw horse in the background.