Planning & Preparation Archives - Mid-Atlantic Timberframes https://matfllc.com/category/planning-and-preparation/ Mid-Atlantic Timberframes Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:07:26 +0000 en hourly 1 https://matfllc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/cropped-MATF-favicon-512x512-1-32x32.png Planning & Preparation Archives - Mid-Atlantic Timberframes https://matfllc.com/category/planning-and-preparation/ 32 32 Evaluating Land for Timber Frame Construction https://matfllc.com/planning-and-preparation/evaluating-land-for-timber-frame-construction/ https://matfllc.com/planning-and-preparation/evaluating-land-for-timber-frame-construction/#respond Wed, 24 Sep 2025 13:06:19 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=5301 Evaluating and approving a property’s drainage, topography, environmental conditions, and code compliance spurs a building project forward in earnest. For a timber frame build, additional requirements should be considered early...

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Evaluating and approving a property’s drainage, topography, environmental conditions, and code compliance spurs a building project forward in earnest. For a timber frame build, additional requirements should be considered early in the planning process to ensure structural integrity as well as performance and durability for years to come.

As suppliers of heavy and mass timber for residential, commercial, and equestrian structures, we help architects, builders, and contractors better understand the unique factors to consider when assessing land for a timber frame home or building. And while a property evaluation has many components, here we’ve compiled the major points to know as you start the project planning process.

Soil & Drainage Assessment

In every evaluation, an assessment will be made of the site’s soil and drainage. A foundation is only as good as the ground beneath it, so studying the soil and its stability plays a critical role in determining whether a site is suitable for building. Loose, expansive, or highly compressible soils can compromise stability. While a timber frame structure is inherently more flexible than rigid brick or block, this evaluation will flag problems that could potentially lead to shifting and torsion issues as the building settles.

Quality drainage is also important for a timber build. Poorly drained sites can lead to pooling water, which accelerates decay in timber elements and undermines structural performance. Ideally, the building site should slope away from the structure, and in cases where water flow is unavoidable, engineered solutions such as French drains may be necessary.

Topography & Terrain

A site’s topography influences both construction logistics and structural design. Gentle, uniform slopes are ideal because they reduce the need for significant excavation or grading. Conversely, steep slopes may require retaining walls or terraces.

Site accessibility is a crucial consideration. Timber frame construction involves moving and installing large timbers, often with the help of cranes. Sites that allow easy access for equipment and delivery trucks not only improve efficiency but also reduce safety risks during construction.

Environmental Factors

Timber is a natural material, and its performance is closely tied to environmental conditions. Moisture is the most significant threat — prolonged exposure can invite pests and fungi, so planning for proper timber care and maintenance is essential. Also, keeping the area near the structure clear of dense vegetation improves airflow and sunlight exposure, aiding drying after rain.

Climate considerations matter. Heavy snow loads, strong winds, and regional humidity all influence design choices. For example, architects may specify larger timbers or additional bracing in high-wind zones, or use steep roof pitches to shed snow in northern climates.

Official Standards & Codes

Finally, every timber frame project has to align with area zoning and building codes. Familiarize yourself with the American Wood Council (AWC) Standards for load calculations, as well as timber species identification, fire resistance, and thermal properties. Knowledge of codes, and compliance with them, is vital for architects and contractors, ensuring projects meet safety, performance, and regulatory benchmarks.

Built to Last

Evaluating land for timber frame construction requires an in-depth study of many factors. By carefully considering a site’s soil and drainage, terrain, prevailing weather, and zoning requirements, architects, contractors, and homeowners can avoid costly surprises and be confident their timber frame structure is built to last for generations.

If you’re planning a timber frame project, contact the experts at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes early in the process. Our team can guide you through a site evaluation, giving you peace of mind and setting the stage for a home or building that blends timber’s timeless beauty with enduring strength.

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Don’t Let High Timber Prices Stop You from Building https://matfllc.com/planning-and-preparation/high-timber-prices/ https://matfllc.com/planning-and-preparation/high-timber-prices/#respond Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:35:28 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=2508 By now, we all know that timber and lumber prices have increased significantly over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, that doesn’t mean you have to put your wood...

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By now, we all know that timber and lumber prices have increased significantly over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, that doesn’t mean you have to put your wood building projects on hold. Thanks to building techniques using heavy timber and mass timber / CLT, you have options to keep costs down in the face of high timber prices.

Why Did Lumber Prices Increase During COVID-19?

In the early days of the pandemic, the entire wood supply chain, including harvesting and production, halted. Then, since many of us were stuck at home, we finally started all those DIY projects we had been putting off. And finally, as the world slowly started to reopen, new home construction grew exponentially.

Now that the world is slowly getting back to normal, employers, including lumber plants and construction companies, are having a hard time hiring workers. This slows down the ability of anyone along the supply chain to do their part in supplying lumber and timber to DIY stores and general contractors.

When supply is low and demand is high, prices rise, and this is the case for all commodities, including lumber and heavy and mass timber.

These factors mostly affect the price of SPF, which is the wood of choice for traditional stick-built structures. However, to a lesser extent, they can also affect the price of heavy timber, which is usually made from Douglas fir, and mass timber, which is usually made from Black Spruce.

Heavy Timber or Mass Timber / CLT Can Help Mitigate Construction Costs

Moving away from traditional building processes and using heavy timber or mass timber / CLT in your construction project can help mitigate rising wood expenses. While the initial cost of heavy timber, mass timber, and CLT is initially greater, using them can save you money in the long run.

  • Mass timber and CLT use tree types that are fast growing and harvested when they are younger. These harvested trees are then replaced by newly planting the same type of fast-growing tree, so there is a quicker turnover with this type of timber.
  • Heavy and mass timber components are cut to specs and dry-fit in a climate-controlled facility and then erected on-site. This cuts down on construction time and heavy equipment costs on the construction site.
  • Mass timber, CLT, and heavy timber are beautiful in their natural form, so they do not need to be covered by another material. With a protective coating brushed on, this is true for exterior applications too.
  • Mass timber and CLT are lighter than steel or concrete, so foundations can be smaller, leading to lower expenditures on other materials.

It may not be as soon as we would like, but as demand for DIY projects and new homes settles down, wood prices will go down too. In the meantime, consider using heavy timber, mass timber, or CLT for your next building project.

For more information on building with heavy timber or mass timber / CLT, contact us today!

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Timber Frames: The Fabrication Process https://matfllc.com/planning-and-preparation/timber-frames-the-fabrication-process/ https://matfllc.com/planning-and-preparation/timber-frames-the-fabrication-process/#respond Tue, 04 Aug 2020 15:18:18 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=1866 At Mid-Atlantic Timberframes, we insist on using the best-grade lumber available. All of our timbers come from sustainable, well-managed forests, and we use a variety of woods for our homes...

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At Mid-Atlantic Timberframes, we insist on using the best-grade lumber available. All of our timbers come from sustainable, well-managed forests, and we use a variety of woods for our homes and timber-framed buildings — mainly Douglas fir, eastern white pine, red cedar, and oak. Each species offers unique character, from the beautiful grain to natural aging, and we handcraft our timber frames to suit the needs of each client with a style that appreciates fine detail and superior quality.

But how exactly do these sourced timbers arrive in Paradise, Pennsylvania, and then make their way to your project? What does the fabrication process look like for our timber frames? And what sort of tools and machines are involved in developing detailed drawings into the perfect timber frame project for you?

For the purpose of this blog, we’re going explore the step-by-step process of how our timber frames are fabricated. Our hope is to illustrate the great deal of care we take in not only sourcing the best possible timber out there, but also producing and fabricating a top-quality product to exceed our customers’ expectations.

  1. Arrival & Sourcing – To begin, all of our timbers are sustainably sourced and harvested from the Pacific Northwest here in the United States. The timbers are then delivered to our facility in Lancaster County via railcar. Railcars can hold the equivalent of four truckloads, and during our busiest times, we receive up to two railcars a month. When the timbers arrive, they are simply square rough-sawn beams. Rough-sawn timber is wood that is cut to a basic size, with edges and sides that have not yet been smoothed. On average, we process over one million board feet of timbers in a year. For some perspective, that’s equivalent to 15-plus railcar loads or more than 60 truckloads! 
  2. Planing & SurfacingFrom there, the beginning of the fabrication process starts, with each timber planed to a desired size. A planer prepares wood by smoothing out a beam’s edges and sides to straighten and level them, and it eliminates splinters. Timber frames should be even all around. Our planer is from the 1920s and is capable of processing timbers of all sizes. Interested in seeing it in action? Click here!
  3. Design & Fabrication – After planing, the timber frames move to the CNC machine. The CNC machine provides the most versatile and accurate joinery, reduces costs and waste, and increases overall efficiency. About 99 percent of our timbers are cut by CNC machine, with the exception of large laminated curves. At this step, design plans for projects play an essential role, determining timber dimensions, post lengths, and truss configurations. Beams must be marked and double checked to make sure they match the plans before the cuts are made. Each project that comes through our doors is designed or reviewed by our in-house team to ensure every joint in each beam is closely evaluated to withstand whatever forces it may be subjected to, such as snow loads, for example. Our CNC machine can handle a large volume of beams each day. For simple rafter or joist beams, more than 100 beams can be cut in a day! Take a closer look at how our CNC machine makes the necessary cuts.
  4. Fitting & Finishing – From there, the beams are then finished with either an orbital sander or a rougher head finishing process. Then the timbers go through test fitting for our quality control evaluation. Because we utilize traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery, we must check the configuration and assembly to ensure each joint is a tight fit and has been cut correctly. If a client has requested a stain for their timber frames, it’s at this point that any pre-staining is included as well. Watch timber frames go through our quality control and hand finishing process.
  5. Packing & DeliveryFinally, once every beam has been cut, double checked, and expertly finished, it’s time for delivery and installation. A project manager coordinates the delivery and timber erection process for all of our projects. The timbers are marked and separated into bundles to minimize moisture accumulation and mold growth. All the bundles are then shrink-wrapped to protect the timbers during storage and transit to job sites, and then they’re on their way for a timber raising to be someone’s next home, party barn, or pavilion.

Setting the Standard for Excellence

We have a team of highly skilled professional timber frame designers ready to assist you in designing as well as developing your timber frame plans for production. You can rest assured that a Mid-Atlantic Timberframes professional will be there to walk you through every step of the process — from initial design to final inspection. Contact us to discuss your project and learn more about the timber frame fabrication process.

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The Benefits of SIPs in Timber Frame Homes https://matfllc.com/tips-care/sips-in-timber-frame-homes/ https://matfllc.com/tips-care/sips-in-timber-frame-homes/#respond Tue, 24 Mar 2020 15:38:33 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=1554 One of the most notable benefits of timber framing is its impressive energy efficiency. Thanks to the natural insulating properties of wood and the flexibility to incorporate high-performance building systems,...

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One of the most notable benefits of timber framing is its impressive energy efficiency. Thanks to the natural insulating properties of wood and the flexibility to incorporate high-performance building systems, timber frame structures are well regarded for their thermal performance. But what many people don’t realize is that this efficiency can be taken even further with the addition of structural insulated panels, or SIPs.

To understand why SIPs are such a powerful addition to timber frame structures, let’s take a closer look at what they are and how they work.

What Are SIPs?

Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are high-performance building components used in walls, roofs, and floors. Each panel consists of a rigid foam insulation core sandwiched between two structural facings, most commonly oriented strand board (OSB). This design results in a panel that is both strong and highly energy efficient.

Because SIPs are manufactured in large sections, they reduce the number of joints, seams, and thermal bridges in a building envelope. The result is a tight, well-insulated shell that performs far better than traditional stick-built framing in terms of airtightness, thermal control, and speed of installation.

How SIPs Integrate with Timber Frame Structures

SIPs are a natural complement to timber framing. In a traditional timber frame structure, the heavy timber posts and beams carry the full structural load. That means the exterior walls don’t need to be load-bearing, which makes SIPs an ideal solution.

Rather than interrupting or hiding the frame, SIPs are custom-cut and installed around the outside of the timber skeleton. This approach fully encloses the structure in a continuous, insulated envelope while keeping the timbers exposed on the interior. The result is a building that combines strength, character, and next-level performance.

Together, timber framing and SIPs form a high-performance system: the timbers provide architectural beauty, open floor plans, and structural integrity, while the SIPs ensure maximum energy efficiency, airtightness, and long-term sustainability.

Aesthetics of SIPs in Timber Frame Construction

One of the biggest draws of timber framing is its visual impact — massive beams, elegant trusses, and cathedral ceilings that add warmth and timeless character. Fortunately, using SIPs doesn’t take away from that aesthetic; it enhances it.

Because SIPs are installed outside the timber frame, the beams, braces, and posts remain fully visible inside the home. This allows homeowners and architects to showcase the craftsmanship of the timber components without interference from studs, insulation, or drywall seams. In fact, SIPs eliminate the need for interior framing, making it easier to highlight the structure’s clean lines and natural wood grain.

On the exterior, SIPs offer a smooth, continuous surface that accepts nearly any cladding: wood siding, stone veneer, stucco, or metal. This flexibility means your building can match a rustic, modern, or transitional aesthetic while still benefiting from cutting-edge insulation and air sealing.

In short, SIPs preserve and amplify the design intent of a timber frame structure, delivering both form and function in perfect balance.

Looking to Start a Project?

While the benefits of SIPs and timber framing sound impressive on paper, experiencing them in a finished structure is even better. Are you ready to move forward with a project of your own? Mid-Atlantic Timberframes is here to help. Working alongside your architect, we’ll bring your vision to life with precision and care. Contact us today to learn more, or browse our project gallery to see what we’ve built for clients across North America.

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Design Timber Frame Home Plans https://matfllc.com/residential/design-timber-frame-home-plans/ https://matfllc.com/residential/design-timber-frame-home-plans/#respond Tue, 03 Dec 2019 20:55:35 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=1380 How do we make a house a home? We design and create a warm and inviting space by paying close attention to the home’s floor plan. There are so many...

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How do we make a house a home? We design and create a warm and inviting space by paying close attention to the home’s floor plan. There are so many ways to go about designing timber frame home plans, but many will agree there are some fundamental things that must be included. The easiest route to take when building your custom timber frame home is to follow a templated or conceptual floor plan. While this is a great way to give you a starting point, these timber frame home plans leave very little to be customized in the end. 

With that being said, our first fundamental piece of advice to design timber frame home plans is to consider your lifestyle. How will the space be used? Is this going to be a part-time residence or permanent residence? It may seem obvious, but you’ll want to make sure a timber frame home or timber frame structure is well suited for you and your family. If a timber frame home is your first or last home, a floor plan that allows for generations to come will make the design process easier. 

Besides understanding your own timber frame lifestyle, another way to make sure you’re designing an inviting timber frame home plan is to make sure the rooms and spaces flow together. An open floor plan is probably your best choice with a timber frame home. When the kitchen, dining, and living spaces are all connected, it naturally creates an inviting space, with seamless transitions for everyday living and entertaining.

Our last piece of advice for customizing timber frame home plans is to not forget about the outdoors. Whether that means adding a deck, pavilion, pergola, or party barn to your property, including the outdoors as part of the main floor plan creates an extension of your living and entertaining space. Depending on where your land sits, the outdoor addition could bring the element of nature inside with natural sunlight or hillside or mountain views. Embracing your natural surroundings is a major advantage of the timber frame lifestyle you’re about to build. 

Here at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes, our expert advice will help when you’re ready to design timber frame home plans that works for your lifestyle needs and wants. We’d welcome the opportunity to see how we can help bring your vision to life, so contact us today! 

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Pick the Right Timber Frame Trusses System https://matfllc.com/planning-and-preparation/pick-the-right-timber-frame-truss-system/ https://matfllc.com/planning-and-preparation/pick-the-right-timber-frame-truss-system/#respond Thu, 30 May 2019 17:55:09 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=1288 Few things exemplify the aesthetic of a timber frame structure like trusses soaring overhead, supporting a high ceiling, giving the space a feeling of grandeur. Whether in a home, commercial...

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Few things exemplify the aesthetic of a timber frame structure like trusses soaring overhead, supporting a high ceiling, giving the space a feeling of grandeur. Whether in a home, commercial space, or barn, various types of trusses may be chosen to suit load requirements or to attain the right “look” — and often, both. But, with multiple options, it can be confusing to know which timber frame truss type is right for a given project. To help, we’re featuring some of our favorite trusses here, highlighting their functionality, beauty, and effectiveness.

King Post Truss

Perhaps the most popular truss type in the timber frame industry, the king post truss is also the most cost-effective. From an engineering perspective, it has the greatest load-carrying capacity but still provides a cozy feeling.

  • A simple truss with timeless appeal, it is one of the oldest and most recognizable truss designs.
  • Offers a clean, symmetrical look, perfect for traditional or rustic spaces.
  • Fewer members and simpler joinery mean this is a cost-effective option.
  • Ideal for short spans of under 30 feet.

Raised King Post Truss

Based on the king post truss and sometimes called a raised-bottom chord truss, the tie beam of a raised king truss is frequently arched and connected higher on the rafter to create a vaulted look when viewed from below.

  • A traditional look with the benefit of higher clearance.
  • Allows for increased ceiling height in the center while keeping lower side profiles.
  • Gives an enhanced sense of openness without the complexity of a scissor truss.
  • Uses space efficiently.

Queen Post Truss

The queen post truss is similar to the king, but used less frequently due to the reactions of a heavier load. A rectangle is formed within the truss triangle that does not put weight on the center of the main tie beam like a king post does. It visually lowers the ceiling height, offering a more intimate feel for a space. This truss allows for headroom utilization in the form of lofts and attics, if desired.

  • Offers an open feel with a classic look.
  • Provides structural strength without bulk.
  • More headroom than a king post.
  • Wider span support of up to 45 feet.

Scissor Truss

When the bottom chords, or scissors, are half lapped properly at the center joint, this is a very strong truss capable of sustaining heavy snow loads, making it ideal for steep pitches.

  • Adds a modern or craftsman-style flair.
  • A great way to add uniqueness while also solving design problems like headroom.
  • Provides an airy and open feel while maintaining support.
  • Creates a vaulted interior with the trusses themselves following the pitch of the roof.

Hammer Beam

The hammer beam truss can be used as a structural truss up to approximately 28 feet wide, making it ideal in large interior areas and for creating vaulted spaces. Exceeding that distance when heavily loaded, however, it will want to spread. The addition of a tie rod will conquer this, enabling the use of a structural hammer beam truss of 40 feet wide or greater.

  • A true testament to craftsmanship.
  • Widely considered the most visually stunning of all trusses.
  • Allows for very wide spans without a central post.
  • Creates a cathedral-like feel with high, open ceilings.
  • Highly customizable.

Choose the Right Truss for Your Project

The network of trusses that support a building’s roof forms both a majestic and functional element of a timber frame structure. Knowing which trusses are best for specific applications will help your design succeed and give your client options for their desired aesthetic.

Before starting your next timber frame project, consult with the experts at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes. We have more than 25 years of experience in crafting trusses, as well as posts, beams, mortise-and-tenon joinery, and so much more. Let our gallery inspire you, and then contact our team by clicking here or calling 717.288.2460.

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Timber Frame Party Barn: Plan Your Own https://matfllc.com/commercial/timber-frame-party-barn/ https://matfllc.com/commercial/timber-frame-party-barn/#respond Wed, 27 Mar 2019 19:32:35 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=1262 Barns might typically be associated with farmland, but in today’s market, they have functions beyond just housing animals and farm equipment. More specifically, barns are becoming desirable options for wedding...

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Barns might typically be associated with farmland, but in today’s market, they have functions beyond just housing animals and farm equipment. More specifically, barns are becoming desirable options for wedding and event venues. Timber frame “party barns” are trending as one of the top venue choices for wedding ceremonies and receptions thanks to what brides are calling “rustic chic.” These barns have a casual appeal that provides an alternative to formal banquet halls or upscale hotel celebrations. 

The open design and natural materials used in timber frame barns help provide this casual mood, setting a memorable scene for any size event. Using timber frames brings the outdoors inside, and by simply adding barn-style sliding doors, you allow for a transition between interior and exterior entertaining. The timbers and trusses bring an instant focal point to a barn’s design by creating tall and dramatic ceilings. Building your barn out of timber frames also adds longevity to the structure thanks to the durability of the materials and craftsmanship involved in timber frame construction. 

The concept of a timber frame party barn is so versatile that this type of structure works well for more than just weddings. Party barns are also ideal for family reunions, as backyard hangouts, or as an extension of your home to serve as guest quarters or entertainment space.

To achieve the perfect event or living space for you, there are a few questions you should consider before designing a timber frame barn.

  1. What style of barn do I want?
  2. Will I need any special permits in order to build a party barn on my property?
  3. What will the main use of the barn be? Do I need to include a full kitchen? Multiple bathrooms?
  4. I don’t want a timber frame barn kit. Am I willing to be patient for a custom design?

When you’re ready, our talented team of designers has what it takes to make your timber frame barn plans a reality. Whether you’re starting from scratch or already have a plan in mind, let Mid-Atlantic Timberframes impress you with the perfect design for a timber frame party barn. 

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Why Build Timber Frame Homes? https://matfllc.com/residential/why-build-timber-frame-homes/ https://matfllc.com/residential/why-build-timber-frame-homes/#respond Mon, 04 Feb 2019 15:51:58 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=1250 When planning a new home, builders have no shortage of materials to choose from — each offering its own set of advantages and limitations. Whether it’s conventional stick-built framing, steel,...

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When planning a new home, builders have no shortage of materials to choose from — each offering its own set of advantages and limitations. Whether it’s conventional stick-built framing, steel, or concrete, the decision ultimately comes down to what aligns best with your vision, values, and long-term goals.

While these alternatives aren’t inherently “bad,” timber frame construction stands out. It offers not only enduring strength and architectural beauty, but also a level of warmth, character, and craftsmanship that few other materials can match.

What Is Timber Frame Home Construction?

Timber frame construction is a time-honored building method that uses large, meticulously crafted wooden beams to form the structural framework of a home. These beams are joined using traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery where a tenon (a carved end of a beam) fits seamlessly into a corresponding mortise and is secured with a wooden peg.

This approach eliminates the need for metal fasteners and gives timber frame homes their signature old-world charm and lasting durability.

Timber framing is one of the oldest and most resilient forms of construction. It has been used for centuries in homes, barns, churches, and schools — many of which are still standing today, a testament to the timeless strength and craftsmanship of this method.

Customization Benefits of Timber Frame Homes

Timber frame construction offers exceptional flexibility in design, allowing homeowners to create one-of-a-kind living spaces that reflect their lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Here’s what sets it apart:

  1. Open Floor Plans Thanks to the structural strength of the timber frame itself, interior load-bearing walls are often unnecessary. This allows for expansive living spaces, vaulted ceilings, and fluid layouts that can evolve with your needs.
  2. Exposed Beam Aesthetic Timber framing isn’t just functional, it’s beautiful. From selecting the wood species and beam dimensions to stain color and joinery style, you have the freedom to create a space that feels distinctly yours.
  3. Versatility Across Architectural Styles Whether you’re envisioning a rustic mountain lodge or a sleek, modern retreat, timber frames adapt seamlessly. They provide a natural, character-rich canvas that suits a wide range of design approaches.
  4. Integration with Green Design Timber frame homes pair exceptionally well with structural insulated panels (SIPs), making it easier to incorporate energy-efficient systems, passive solar design, and other eco-conscious elements without sacrificing design flexibility.

The Biophilic Advantage of Timber Frame Homes

While design flexibility is a major benefit, one of the most powerful aspects of timber frame construction lies in its natural aesthetic and connection to nature, a concept known as biophilia.

The exposed wood grain, earthy tones, and organic textures of timber bring the calming presence of nature indoors, creating living spaces that feel warm, grounded, and deeply restorative.

Research has shown that incorporating natural materials like wood into the built environment can help reduce stress, elevate mood, and even improve focus and productivity. Timber frame construction allows for greater wall spans, meaning homes can have larger windows that invite more natural light, enhance views of the outdoors, and encourage better indoor air quality, all of which contribute to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

If you’re looking to build a home that doesn’t just look beautiful but also supports your well-being, timber framing offers a rare combination of emotional comfort and architectural elegance.

Sustainable by Nature: The Eco Benefits of Timber Frame Construction

Timber frame homes don’t just look and feel good — they’re also a smart choice for the planet. Unlike steel or concrete, timber is a renewable, carbon-sequestering resource. When harvested responsibly, it has a far lower environmental impact, making it an ideal material for sustainable homebuilding.

The production of timber requires less energy and emits fewer greenhouse gases than more industrial building materials. Even better, the wood used in your home continues to store carbon for decades, reducing your home’s overall footprint.

Thanks to its inherent strength, timber framing also requires fewer materials to achieve structural integrity. And when combined with high-performance insulation like SIPs, it enables superior energy efficiency, cutting heating and cooling costs over time.

Timber construction also produces less on-site waste, and many builders today source wood locally to reduce transportation emissions.

Choosing timber isn’t just a design preference — it’s a commitment to building smarter, greener, and with future generations in mind.

More Unique Benefits of Timber Frame Homes

Beyond beauty, sustainability, and customization, timber frame construction offers a range of practical advantages that elevate it above many conventional building methods:

  1. Exceptional Longevity Timber frame structures are built to last for generations. The use of large, solid wood beams and traditional joinery methods creates an incredibly resilient framework that stands up to time, weather, and even seismic activity better than many modern materials.
  2. Faster Construction Timeline Because timber frames are often pre-cut and pre-engineered off-site, the frame can be assembled quickly once delivered. This speeds up the construction process, reduces labor costs, and minimizes delays caused by unpredictable weather.
  3. Natural Fire Resistance Many are surprised to learn that heavy timber is highly fire-resistant. When exposed to flame, large beams char on the outside. This forms a protective layer that insulates the core and slows the spread of fire, offering more time for evacuation and fire response compared to lightweight framing.
  4. Quiet, Solid Feel Timber frame homes offer a distinctive sense of solidity and peace. The mass and density of the wood naturally absorb sound and create a quieter indoor environment, contributing to a feeling of calm and lasting quality.
  5. Higher Resale Appeal Due to their craftsmanship, energy efficiency, and timeless aesthetic, timber frame homes often retain or even increase in value. They tend to attract discerning buyers who appreciate authenticity, sustainability, and long-term durability.

Ready to Build with Timber? Let’s Get Started.

The reasons to choose timber frame construction are many, from timeless beauty and design flexibility to sustainability and lasting strength. But ultimately, the right decision comes down to choosing a building method that reflects your values and enhances the way you live.

If you’re ready to bring your vision to life, Mid-Atlantic Timberframes is here to guide the way. We’ll work closely with you and your architect to ensure your timber frame home is not only beautifully crafted, but also thoughtfully designed, structurally sound, and built to last for generations. Contact us today to learn more.

 

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Questions to Ask Your Custom Home Builder https://matfllc.com/residential/questions-custom-home-builder/ https://matfllc.com/residential/questions-custom-home-builder/#respond Thu, 06 Dec 2018 16:19:00 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=1174 Our team of timber frame builders and designers at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes frequently work with custom home builders. Because we are not a general contractor, we must rely on them to...

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Our team of timber frame builders and designers at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes frequently work with custom home builders. Because we are not a general contractor, we must rely on them to take the timber frame plans we design and then execute the actual timber frame home build for our clients.

The custom home builders our customers choose do not have to build exclusively timber frame homes, because our team at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes will be there to offer a leg up in that department. Timber frames are what we know, so we find concentrating just on that portion of the build allows us to really focus and give our clients the custom timber frame designs they desire. We’re involved in all the steps it takes to incorporate timber frames into a home design, making us very hands-on timber frame builders. Therefore, the ability to collaborate well with custom home builders on any large project is vital.

Prior to getting your timber frame home project off the ground, there are several questions that will not only help you choose a custom home builder, but also help them collaborate successfully with your timber frame builder. We recommend asking:

  1. How long have you been building custom homes and/or timber frame homes?
  2. Are you willing to work and/or collaborate with a timber frame builder?
  3. Are you comfortable building the size and quality timber frame home I’m looking for?
  4. How will my questions and concerns be addressed during the timber frame construction process?
  5. Are you licensed, and have you earned any national accreditations?

Asking the right questions will make the entire build process run more smoothly. You’ll have the answers you need, and you’ll be able to trust that your chosen timber frame builder and custom home builder can work together in building your timber frame home.

Are you ready to start thinking about how to build your timber frame home? Contact our team today and let Mid-Atlantic Timberframes help you build the timber frame home you’ve always wanted.

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Is a Timber Frame Home in Your Budget? https://matfllc.com/residential/timber-frame-home-within-budget/ https://matfllc.com/residential/timber-frame-home-within-budget/#respond Mon, 08 Oct 2018 18:11:47 +0000 https://matfllc.com/?p=1160 5 Ways to Save on the Cost of a Timber Frame Home Before starting the process of designing a timber frame home, it’s best to know your budget—or at least...

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5 Ways to Save on the Cost of a Timber Frame Home

Before starting the process of designing a timber frame home, it’s best to know your budget—or at least a ballpark budget. You’ll want to keep it in mind as you begin to make your list of design wants versus design needs. Timber frame home prices vary due to the custom-build aspect of them, and they do cost more to build than stick-built houses. And while we want you to have everything you’re looking for, sometimes the final turnkey cost to build a timber frame house does require some budgeting. Here are some ways to make sure you’re keeping the cost to build a timber frame home down.

  1. Land: While it might seem like a no-brainer, make sure you own the land you want to build on and that it’s suitable and/or zoned for construction. If you don’t own the land, factor the purchase cost into your budget. Then, consider the accessibility for timber frame construction. The more secluded and difficult to access your land is, the more the cost of getting construction trucks and materials to it will go up.
  2. Design Complexity: Find someone you trust to bring your timber frame home plans to life. A trusted partner will understand you have a budget to keep in mind and won’t point you in the direction of complex designs that aren’t attainable. Using a designer or architect with the right experience in designing timber frame home plans will ensure that your home is designed properly for you to achieve cost savings in both the short and long term.
  3. Hybrid vs. Full Timber: Do you want a full timber frame home or simply timber frame accents? If the latter is what you had in mind, then a hybrid timber frame home will certainly keep the cost down. While a full timber frame home is on many people’s dream lists, it’s not necessarily the most cost-conscious if you are on a budget. A hybrid timber frame will certainly give you the design feel you’re going after while still being able to incorporate more affordable conventional framing.
  4. Species of Timbers: There are a number of wood species to choose from. You’ll want to work with your designer or timber frame partner on selecting the best wood species for your budget. Eastern white pine, Douglas fir, and red cedar are popular choices, and their availability and cost will depend on the delivery location. But, if you have a specific request for a custom wood species, know that it might add to the cost of your timber frame home.
  5. Be Realistic: If you’re really looking to keep the cost of a timber frame home down, be realistic in your finishing fixtures and the number of rooms you’ll need and actually use. Plan for upgrades down the line. Prioritize your “must haves,” like your preferred vaulted timber frame ceiling, and then save the deck addition for down the road.

Timber frame home prices vary based on the choices you make. There will always be ways to keep the cost of any home project down, and there will always be items you may have to give up in order to achieve that magic budget number. But hopefully some of these tips can help you achieve the feel of a timber frame home without going over budget.

If you aren’t sure where to begin in determining your budget based on timber frame cost per square foot, please contact our team today. We’re more than happy to develop plans for you and provide a preliminary estimate to show the cost of your timber frame home.

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