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Photo: Straw Insulation courtesy of Wind River Timberframes
Photo: Interior - courtesy of Ark II Timberframes

Although timber frame design started centuries ago in Europe, it seems so perfectly Canadian. It's easy to imagine sitting in the great room (the living room) of one of these homes looking out over a vast lake or forest. Take a trip to Whistler, Collingwood or almost any ski area in Canada and you'll find stunning examples of timber frame construction. Currently experiencing a revival, the design is now becoming more popular in urban areas. It combines old-world style with modern building materials and modern conveniences. Majestic high ceilings, towering stone fireplaces and exposed interior beams are signature features.

Timber framing is a type of post and beam construction in which a frame is created from solid wood timbers that are connected by age-old joinery techniques similar to those used in furniture making. There are four basic wooden joints: mortise and tenon, dovetails and scarfs secured with hardwood pegs. All the pieces of the frame are pre-cut, sanded, sealed then delivered to the building site ready to be assembled. The frame can be erected in only a few days. Beams are usually cut from Douglas Fir, which is one of the strongest softwoods and ages to a deep reddish brown. Pine is also commonly used.

When looking at the large beams in timber frame homes, one may think they use great amounts of wood. In fact, in many cases they require less timber than traditional dimension lumber houses. The thick beams can also last for hundreds of years if they are properly protected from the elements. Beams salvaged from old structures such as warehouses and churches can be recycled. Not only is it environmental, the beams usually have unique character and rich colour. Another benefit is that recycled wood has dried to its maximum and full shrinkage has already occurred.

Timber frame homes are very energy efficient as they use different wall and insulation structures than wood frame homes. Structurally insulated panels (SIPS) are solid, one-piece structural components that can be used in walls, floors and roofs. Instead of separate pieces of framing, insulation and sheathing, a SIP panel incorporates all three components and comes ready to install. These panels reduce energy consumption by approximately 30% compared to standard walls constructed with 2" x 6" dimensional lumber with fiberglass insulation.

Another type of insulation popular in timber frame homes is straw bale or clay-straw bale insulation. Not only is the straw in these bails is an endlessly renewable resource, it is an incredible insulator. The walls can then be finished with plaster or stucco for a unique look or covered with standard drywall.

People interested in timber frame homes are looking to make something that lasts for generations and take great care with the design and layout. Fortunately, the industry itself seems geared for custom designs. If you are considering one of these homes, take plenty of time to sketch out desired room sizes, placement and features. When it comes time to take those ideas to the design and building stages, you should take the same precautions when building a timber frame home as they would when building any other home. Conduct research, check references of architects, designers, the general contractor and the timber framing company. Get all quotes for products and services in writing. These steps can help you avoid a lot of frustration while saving time and money.

Considerations when building in remote areas:
Consider access to essential services such as water, telephone, electrical and sewage disposal. If connections to utility companies are not possible, there are many solutions available however investigate these and expect to make a large investment which will pay off over several years.

Take into account the costs of building roads and a driveway.

Be certain your lot has a soil type suitable for building, and that it will pass a perk test.

The natural setting of your home can add to the cost of construction if the land is steeply sloped, heavily wooded, rocky or difficult to access.

If you decide to add to the energy efficiency of your home with solar power, consider the placement of trees and hills.

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