Gerenda

Gerenda is a term used in Indonesian and Malay-speaking regions to describe a structural timber element, usually a horizontal beam that spans between vertical supports and plays a key role in roof and wall framing. In traditional timber houses, gerenda helps align and tie together posts and rafters, distributing loads from the roof to the building’s skeleton. The word may be applied more broadly to any longitudinal wooden beam used in light-frame construction.

Materials and construction methods vary by region, but gerenda is typically made from locally available timber, such as hardwoods or softwoods. Proper seasoning and protective treatment are important to prevent warping, cracking, and decay. Installation requires careful fitting and secure connections to resist vertical loads and, in some designs, lateral forces from wind or seismic activity. Depending on the house type, gerenda may run along the length of a building or be placed at specific intervals to support roofing members.

In modern practice, the term can also refer to manufactured or engineered beams that serve the same structural purpose as traditional timber gerenda. While conventional timber remains common in vernacular architecture, engineered wood products and, in some cases, steel alternatives are used to improve strength, durability, and consistency.

Maintenance typically includes inspection for signs of decay or termite damage, ensuring proper moisture management around the beams, and reapplication of protective finishes as needed. Properly designed and treated gerenda contribute to the stability and longevity of timber-frame structures.