Heavy Timber Framing Do's and Dont's

• DO your homework.

Timber framing companies are not all the same. You'll need to narrow in on which timber framer is best suited to your needs. At Vermont Timber Works we offer hand crafted quality, traditional joinery and custom designs, this may or may not be what you are looking for. Vermont Timber Works focuses on the timber frame only. No sip panels or conventional framing included, no kit homes or pre-engineered package deals. Again, this may be or may not be what you would like.

• DO have a budget and feel free to discuss it with your timber framer.

Everyone has a budget and it needs to be discussed. The timber frame company you choose should be a company that you feel comfortable with. At Vermont Timber Works we want our clients to know that we will do our best for them. Whether they have a large or small project or just need a few decorative beams. Our reputation depends on this.

• Don't assume you are getting traditional joinery, not all timber framing companies offer it (or do it well).

Traditional Joinery: Mortise and Tenon Joinery with Hardwood Pegs. Dove Tails, Shoulder Joints and more. If you need Steel Joinery (or just like the look of it) not to worry, at Vermont Timber Works we offer this also.

• DO ask for referrals.

A reputable timber framer will understand and offer referrals to you. It may be viewing a timber frame that is in your area. It may be talking with a home owner or builder that has worked with them or has a similar project. Heavy Timber Construction is an investment and at Vermont Timber Works we have links to public timber frame projects right on our web site, please go take a look.

• Don't forget to call Vermont Timber Works, to find out if we would be a good match for your timber frame project. Delivery Nationwide. 802-886-1917

Heavy Timbers and Trusses and Bears, Oh My!

One of my favorite places to visit has always been the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory in Charlotte, Vt. Now that I work at Vermont Timber Works and know that the Heavy Timber Construction was done by our crew, I like it even better!

Notice the Heavy Timber King Post Trusses that span the shop, with Douglas Fir Timbers and steel gusset plate joinery.

Rustic Timber pole Columns make the exterior of the building extra special.

Here we notice that inside of the store are octagonal Timber Trusses with Steel Joinery. The project is so inviting that even the BEARS want to make themselves at home among the timbers.

Like the one the little bear is walking in this picture, there is a FINE LINE between Timber Framers and Expert Timber Framers....fortunately, we've been on the right side of that line for years!

Vermont Timber Works Trusses and a little cotton stuffing make this a magical place to visit. Hope to see you there.

Building a timber frame home?

Building a timber frame home is a dream for many. Vermont Timber Works offers high quality hand crafted timber frames. Here are some ideas to get you started. FIRST you need a budget. This will narrow down what is affordable. Perhaps you want a kit home? If so, give us a call, we can recommend a few. If you want a custom timber frame home, designed just for you, we have many options. Perhaps your budget only allows for a timber frame great room and the rest of the home is conventionally framed. Maybe a full frame is in your budget or something in between. Whatever your budget, our sales teams & designers can come up with ideas for your consideration. Call 802-886-1917 or email US.

Our Big Barn, A Timber Frame Barn in Hemlock Timbers.

Ok, well it's not our big barn anymore, it has a home near Albany, NY. This timber frame design allows for a basketball court!

Steel Joinery was needed for the open 40ft span. At Vermont Timber Works traditional joinery as well as the steel is available. All hand crafted, no CNC machines in our shop.
Mr. Duker has a bigger timber frame barn in mind for his next project. We are in the design phase now. I'll keep you posted! This bigger barn will be our 4th timber frame project on the Duker Estate and we appreciate his repeat business.

See how beautiful Heavy Timber Homes can be!

Residential Timber Frame Projects