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Timber Frame Homes

What is a timber frame home?

A timber frame house is very similar to a post and beam log house. The main structure of a timber framed home consists of horizontal timber beams, which are then supported by vertical timber posts. The main difference between a post and beam and a timber frame is the timbers in a timber frame are precisely cut into a square profile where post and beam is a round profile. Usually, timbers are seen on the interior of the home with traditional siding options covering the outside.

Timber frame homes typically have clean lines, symmetry, and strength which allow you to push the boundaries of complex designs and style. We only use the highest quality Douglas-fir and western red cedar available. Our timber frame homes and cabins can be CNC machine cut or handcrafted. All timbers are precisely cut, labeled and then packaged tightly into shipping containers, saving our clients time and money.

Advantages of Timber Frame Homes

  • Flexible design options, from a very traditional look to the most modern contemporary designs

  • Unlike a traditional full scribe log home, there is no settling of the logs which makes maintenance a lot easier.

  • Trades can frame, wire and plumb the home similar to a traditional home, saving you money.

  • There is less maintenance and upkeep compared to a traditional full scribe log home.

  • Option to kiln dry wood beforehand, minimizing any movement of the timbers.
  • Traditional siding can be used with a timber frame home, allowing you to build in city areas.

  • Building a timber frame home can take 2 – 3 months, with reassembly taking 2 – 5 days depending on size.

  • If a full timber frame exceeds your budget, there is always the option of adding some timber highlights to your conventional home and still achieve the feel and beauty of timbers

How much does a Timber Frame Home Cost?

Compared to a traditional full scribe or post and beam a timber frame package is typically the least expensive of the three because timber frame homes because there usually is less volume of wood used. Again cost depends on the complexity, size, design and type of timber used.

To help break it down, here is what a typical timber frame home package would include from Artisan Log Homes & Timber Frame:

  • The timber frame structure.

  • Reassembly on location.

  • Interior stairs and railings.

  • Pre-framed exterior wall and roof panels, with the option of using natural “green” materials only.

  • Windows and doors.

  • All engineered hardware.

  • All gaskets and special sealant tapes for the timber members, in order to achieve an airtight and energy efficient home.

  • Labour costs for at least 2 of Artisan’s skilled timber framers to direct the assembly of the timbers on site.

The average cost of a timber frame package will range between $45 per square foot and $75 per square foot.

Depending on the type of timber you decide to use for a post and beam and timber frame it can affect the cost of your build. For a full break down check out our article “How Much Does a Log Home Cost“.

You can view our Timber Frame Gallery and Timber Frame Plans for more inspiration.

Have Questions?

Contact us and we’ll be happy to explore your options

Building Canadian Log Homes for over 49 Years